Soldier Killed By Bomb Was 'One Of The Best'

A soldier from 1st Battalion The Rifles who was killed by a bomb in Afghanistan on Sunday has been named as Rifleman Martin Lamb.

The 27-year-old was killed by an improvised explosive device (IED) while on a patrol in the Haji Kareen area of the Nahr-e Saraj (South) district on June 5.

Rfn Lamb, who was from Gloucestershire, deployed to Afghanistan in April 2011 as a member of 'A' Company, Reconnaissance Platoon, operating out of the newly established temporary Checkpoint Zarawar.

He had also served in Iraq in 2008 and leaves behind his wife Melissa and two-year-old daughter Rosie.

His commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel James de Labilliere described him as "one of my very best" and "talented, capable and naturally gifted as a most professional soldier".

He added: "His own personal contribution, courage and sacrifice will be forever remembered as the price paid for this significant success.

"But 'Lamby' will also be remembered for his energy, zeal and commitment - he was a man with many friends and others naturally gravitated to him. He was one of life's real characters, and he was due to be promoted soon."

In a statement, the Ministry of Defence described him as a "natural soldier" who was "the focal point within his unit".

A spokesman added: "His loss leaves a gaping hole in our ranks and we will honour his sacrifice."