UK soldier dies in southern Iraq

The MoD said that enemy forces were not involved in the soldier's death

A British soldier has died in southern Iraq after suffering a gunshot wound to the head, the Ministry of Defence said.

The next of kin have been informed of the death of the soldier, who was serving with 9 Regiment Army Air Corps.

The MoD also said no enemy forces were involved in the incident and that there was no evidence to suggest anyone else was involved in the incident.

This latest death means the total number of UK troops killed in operations in Iraq has reached 177.

The incident happened at 0900 local time (0600 GMT).

The MoD said medical assistance had been provided immediately, but the soldier had been declared dead at the scene.