A British soldier has died following a bomb blast in southern Afghanistan, the Ministry of Defence said yesterday.

The serviceman, a member of 216 Parachute Signal Squadron, Royal Corps of Signals, died from injuries sustained yesterday in the Nahr-e Saraj district of Helmand province.

At the time of his death, the soldier was part of an operation to disrupt Taliban movement in the region. Next of kin have been informed.

He died after the vehicle he was travelling in came into contact with a roadside bomb.

Lieutenant Colonel David Eastman, spokesman for Task Force Helmand, said: “The soldier was patrolling in the Nahr-e Saraj district of Helmand, bringing security and stability to an area previously dominated by insurgent intimidation, when his vehicle struck an improvised explosive device.

“His loss is a bitter blow, especially during this season of peace and goodwill.

“He died making a better, safer life for others; his sacrifice will not be forgotten.”

A total of 347 UK military personnel have died since operations in Afghanistan began in 2001.

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