Soldier from 3 RIFLES killed near Sangin on 5 March

The soldier died from wounds received as a result of an explosion which occurred near Sangin, in Helmand province, during the morning of Friday 5 March 2010.

The soldier's death was not connected to Operation MOSHTARAK.

Spokesman for Task Force Helmand, Lieutenant Colonel David Wakefield, said:

"It is my sad duty to inform you that yesterday a British soldier from 3 RIFLES died as a result of an explosion in Sangin, northern Helmand.

"He was on a foot patrol to the south west of Patrol Base Blenheim when he was struck by an explosion.

"He died in the course of his duty and among his comrades. He will be sorely missed and we will remember him."

The soldier's next of kin have been informed and have asked for a period of grace before further details are released.