Soldier shot dead in Afghanistan

A British soldier has been shot dead in Afghanistan while on a patrol to disrupt insurgent activity, the Ministry of Defence said.

The serviceman, from 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards, was in the Nahr-e-Saraj district of Helmand Province when he came under small arms fire.

His next of kin have been informed.

Task Force Helmand spokesman Major Ian Lawrence said: "Sadly I must report that today a soldier from 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards has died of a gunshot wound sustained while on patrol in the Nahr-e-Saraj district of Helmand Province.

"The thoughts and prayers of all in the Task Force and Combined Force are with his family and friends at this tragic time."

A total of 410 members of UK forces have died since operations in Afghanistan began in October 2001.