Soldier killed in Afghan blast

My Account
Logout

Create an Evening Standard Account

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Welcome! Sign in here

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Forgot your password ?

Registration

* indicates fields that are mandatory

Email *

Password *

Confirm Password *

First name *

Surname *

Postcode *

Country *

Mobile phone number

Username *

Gender *

Year of birth *

When you sign up...

You will have access to all our online competitions, discounted offers and can post comments on our site.

You will also receive The Weekender newsletter sent every Thursday - it’s full of fantastic offers and ideas for the weekend. You can update your email preferences in your account page when you log in.

Other newsletters and emails

Homes & Property Newsletter - Yes I want to receive the weekly email with all the latest news on property in the capital

Occasionally we would also like to send you relevant emails detailing specific offers either from ourselves or carefully selected partners. If you would prefer not to receive these then please tick the appropriate boxes below. We will never pass on your details.

I do not want to receive additional offers and information from the Evening Standard

I do not want to receive additional offers and information sent by Evening Standard on behalf of carefully selected partners

Terms and Conditions

* I have read, understood and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of Evening Standard

Registration

Mail Sent for Registration Confirmation.

A confirmation email has been sent. Please activate your account by clicking on the activation link sent in your mail box.

The soldier, who has not been named, died when an improvised explosive device was triggered in Sangin in Helmand province, the Ministry of Defence said.

Next of kin have been informed.

Brigadier General Richard Blanchette, International Security Assistance Force spokesman, said: "I offer our condolences to the families and friends of our fallen soldier. This soldier died honourably, helping bring security to Afghanistan."

The soldier is the 117th British serviceman to be killed in Afghanistan since operations began in November 2001.

He was from 1st Battalion The Royal Irish Regiment and was killed while on a routine foot patrol on Thursday morning, the MoD said.

Despite being given first aid at the scene he later died.

A statement from the MoD said: "It is with deep regret that the Ministry of Defence must confirm that a soldier from 1st Battalion The Royal Irish Regiment has been killed ... in southern Afghanistan.

"... whilst conducting a routine foot patrol near Sangin District Centre a soldier was involved in an explosion which is believed to be caused by an Improvised Explosive Device. Despite the best medical efforts at the scene, the soldier died as a result of his wounds."

Lieutenant Colonel David Reynolds, spokesman for British Forces in Afghanistan, said: "This is a tragic loss and one that will be felt across the Task Force. Our thoughts and sympathies are with the friends and family at this most difficult time."