UK soldier killed in Afghanistan

The soldier's death was a result of an improvised explosive device

A British soldier has been killed in an explosion in Afghanistan, according to the Ministry of Defence.

The soldier, from 1st Battalion Welsh Guards, died while on a routine patrol near Lashkar Gah in central Helmand province on Friday morning.

The soldier's next of kin have been informed of the death.

The latest death takes the number of British service personnel who have died in Afghanistan since the start of operations in October 2001 to 169.

Lieutenant Colonel Nick Richardson, spokesman for Task Force Helmand, said it was "another sad day" for his troops.

"Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of the deceased and also to the soldiers of 1st Battalion Welsh Guards," he said.

Brigadier-General Richard Blanchette, spokesman for the Nato-led International Security Assistance Force, revealed that the death was the result of an improvised explosive device (IED) strike.

He said: "The absolute commitment of this service member shines like a beacon to guide us as we pursue peace for the people of Afghanistan."