UK soldier killed in Afghan blast

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The soldier, from The Black Watch, 3rd Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland, was caught in the blast near Kandahar on Thursday morning.

The MoD said the blast was caused by an improvised explosive device and it occurred while the soldier was on a planned operation.

Lieutenant Colonel Nick Richardson, spokesman for Task Force Helmand, said: "It is with great regret that we report the death of another soldier on Operation Herrick 10.

"It is an incredibly sad day for the whole of the Task Force but our thoughts and prayers go out to the soldiers of The Black Watch and particularly the bereaved friends and family of the soldier during this very sad time."

Brigadier-General Richard Blanchette, spokesman for the Nato-led International Security Assistance Force, said: "The death of this service member is mourned by all of us in ISAF, and I offer our sympathy to the soldier's family and friends.

"We will remember this life and priceless service in support of the Afghan people with great respect and gratitude."

Condolences to the soldier have also been offered by SNP politicians in Perth, which has strong links with the Black Watch.

Peter Wishart, MP for Perth and North Perthshire, said: "This is very sad news, a second Black Watch soldier killed in just over a month. This loss will be felt very deeply throughout Perthshire."

Roseanna Cunningham, Scottish environment minister and MSP for Perth, said: "My prayers are with all those who are grieving today and with the families of other members of the Black Watch serving in Afghanistan."