UK soldier is found dead in Iraq

An investigation has been launched into the death of the soldier

A British soldier has been found dead with a gunshot wound in Iraq, according to the Ministry of Defence (MoD).

Sergeant Paul Connolly was discovered at Shaibah Logistic Base, south west of Basra, on Sunday. The MoD said the death was being investigated but "initial inquiries do not indicate hostile action or other suspicious circumstances".

Sgt Connolly, 33, came from Crawley in West Sussex, and was separated, with three children.

The death brings the total number of fatalities among UK service personnel to 75.

Sgt Connolly served with the Royal Electrical & Mechanical Engineers, attached to 21 Engineer Regiment of the Royal Engineers.

He was a highly capable soldier and a hugely popular character who was widely respected and admired Lt Colonel Nick Cavanagh Commanding officer British casualties in Iraq

In a statement, the MoD said: "He joined the REME in 1989 and, after initial military training, became a metalsmith.

"He progressed to become a master welder, responsible for fabricating and welding a wide range of military equipment."

Sgt Connolly took part in operations and exercises in various countries including Germany, Northern Ireland, Bosnia and Kosovo.

He was deployed in Iraq in October to help rebuild the infrastructure in southern Iraq.

Lieutenant Colonel Nick Cavanagh, the commanding officer of 21 Engineer Regiment, said: "Paul's death is a real tragedy and a terrible shock for his many comrades both in the regiment and the wider family of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers.

"He was a highly capable soldier and a hugely popular character who was widely respected and admired. He will be sorely missed."