Two British soldiers killed on patrol in one day

The marine was killed by an explosion while serving with 40 Commando Royal Marines, as part of Combined Forces Sangin, Helmand. His death follows that of a British soldier who was fatally injured earlier the same day in a firefight with insurgents.

Lieutenant Colonel James Carr-Smith, spokesman for Task Force Helmand, said the marine was "tragically" struck while conducting a "reassurance foot patrol" in the Green Zone around Sangin.

"His boldness and commitment to the mission will not be forgotten," he said. "He died a marine. He will be sorely missed and we will remember him."

The first soldier, from 4th Regiment Royal Artillery, died from a gunshot wound in the Nahr-e Saraj area of Helmand Province.

Serving as part of 1st Battalion The Royal Gurkha Rifles Battle Group, he came under attack on a foot patrol with Afghan National Army troops to reassure local people, the MoD said.

Lt Col Carr-Smith said the soldier died doing his duty, alongside while seeking to reassure the local population and counter insurgent intimidation.

"He will be greatly missed and we will always remember him."

The latest death - the seventh this month - comes after a lull in fatalities during the British election period.

In March, 12 servicemen were killed in the line of duty while in April this figure fell to three.