Afghanistan blast soldier named

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Royal Marine Dale Gostick, 22, from Oxford, died when his vehicle was caught in a blast north of Sangin, Helmand Province, the Ministry of Defence said.

His death on Sunday brought the number of British military personnel who have died in Afghanistan since 2001 to 97.

Marine Gostick, of 3 Troop Armoured Support Company, Royal Marines, was driving a Viking armoured vehicle when it hit a suspected mine. Medics attempted to revive him but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Another two Royal Marines are still receiving treatment after being injured in the incident at the Sangin crossing of the Helmand River.

The troops were returning to base after operations supporting soldiers from the 2nd Battalion of the Parachute Regiment around Musa Qaleh.

Marine Gostick, known affectionately by his friends as "master chief general of the universe", was remembered for his sense of humour and relaxed attitude to life.

His family paid tribute to a "huge character" who made time for everyone, adding: "His passing has left an irreplaceable hole in so many people's lives." They said he was "dearly loved and deeply missed" by his girlfriend Beccy.

Marine Gostick joined the Royal Marines in late 2004 and passed the gruelling 32-week training course before becoming a member of Plymouth-based 42 Commando.

In 2006 he completed a Viking operators course and served in Afghanistan with the Royal Marines' Armoured Support Company as part of 3 Commando Brigade. He arrived in Afghanistan for his second deployment in December 2007.