UK soldier killed in Afghanistan

The death takes the number of British troops killed in Afghanistan to 118

A British soldier has been killed in an explosion while on routine patrol in Afghanistan, the Ministry of Defence has said.

The soldier, from the Royal Logistic Corps, died in an explosion in Musa Qala in Afghanistan's southern Helmand province on Wednesday.

The death brings the number of soldiers killed on operations in Afghanistan since 2001 to 118.

An MoD spokesman said the soldier's next of kin had been informed.

The cause of the explosion is being investigated.

Lt Col David Reynolds, spokesman for British Forces in Afghanistan, said: "This soldier's death will have a lasting impact on his family and friends as well as those who served alongside him.

"We will ensure that he is never forgotten."

Brig Gen Richard Blanchette, International Security Assistance Force spokesman, offered his condolences to relatives.

"We are saddened by this soldier's death and our deepest condolences go to the family and loved ones," he said.

"This soldier's life was taken while helping to bring peace and security to the people of Afghanistan."

The MoD is expected to name the soldier on Friday.

Most of Britain's 8,000 troops in Afghanistan are based in Helmand province.