Tribute to soldier killed in blast

Trooper Andrew Howarth, 20, of Bournemouth, Dorset, was the third generation of his family to serve in the Queen's Royal Lancers.

Affectionately nicknamed "Steptoe" by comrades because of his scruffy appearance, he died next to a member of the Royal Engineers in an explosion in the Lashkar Gah district of Helmand on Saturday, when his Jackal armoured vehicle was targeted by a Taliban roadside bomb.

"He was a very loving son who loved his family and friends," his family said in a statement. "He would light up any room when he walked in and would do anything for anyone. He had a heart of gold and will be deeply missed."

Commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel Martin Todd, paid tribute to his "irrepressible enthusiasm, determination and good humour".