UK soldier killed in Afghanistan

A British soldier has been killed in Afghanistan, according to the Ministry of Defence (MoD).

The soldier was from 2nd Battalion The Royal Gurkha Rifles.

He was killed by enemy fire in the Musa Qala area of Afghanistan, the MoD said. His family have been informed of their relative's death.

This latest death means that the number of UK troops killed on operations in Afghanistan since they began in 2001 now stands at 122.

Brigadier General Richard Blanchette said: "Our deepest sympathies are with the soldier's family and friends as they deal with their loss.

"This soldier died honourably, helping bring security to Afghanistan."