UK death toll in Afghanistan hits 250
Updated on 22 January 2010
Another British soldier has been killed in Afghanistan, bringing the overall death toll for UK troops since operations began to 250.
The Ministry of Defence has confirmed the grim milestone.
The soldier died after an explosion near Sangin, in central Helmand Province, on Friday afternoon.
He was from A Company 4 Rifles, serving as part of 3 Rifles Battle Group. His death takes the toll of British dead in Afghanistan to 250 since the start of operations.
Spokesman for Task Force Helmand, Lieutenant Colonel David Wakefield, said: "It is my sad duty to inform you that a British soldier was killed by an explosion near Sangin in Helmand Province earlier today.
"He was on a foot patrol, part of a larger operation to provide security for the local population in Sangin, when the explosion happened.
"His courage and the sacrifice he has made will not be forgotten."
Next of kin have asked for a 24 hour period of grace before further details are released.
