British Soldier Shot Dead In Afghanistan

A soldier has been shot dead while on patrol in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.

The serviceman, from 3rd Battalion, The Yorkshire Regiment, was killed by small arms fire.

He was part of a patrol to disrupt insurgent activity in the south of Nahr-e Saraj district when he was attacked, said the Ministry of Defence.

Spokesman for British Forces Helmand, Lieutenant Colonel John Kerner said: "It is my sad duty to inform you that a soldier from 3rd Battalion, The Yorkshire Regiment has been killed whilst on patrol in the Nahr-e Saraj district of Helmand Province.

"His loss will be felt by everyone across Task Force Helmand and our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time."

The serviceman's family has been informed of the death.

The soldier is the 417th member of UK forces to have died since operations in Afghanistan began in October 2001.

The death came just hours after a British soldier from 1st Battalion, The Royal Welsh, who was killed in Afghanistan on Friday, was named by the Ministry of Defence.

Corporal Michael John Thacker was manning an observation post in the Nahr-e Saraj District of Helmand Province when his patrol came under attack from small arms fire.

He received immediate medical attention and was evacuated from the scene by helicopter but died of his injuries.