Five British soldiers killed in Afghanistan

The two explosions, which occurred during the same patrol, happened near Sangin, Helmand province, this morning.

Spokesman for Task Force Helmand, Lieutenant Colonel Nick Richardson, said:

"While there are no words to ease their loss, our heartfelt sympathies go to their families, friends and fellow soldiers at this very difficult time; their deaths were not in vain."

Next of kin have been informed and have asked for a period of grace before further details are released.