Yorkshireman among latest to die in Afghanistan

The pair, both from the 3rd Battalion, The Rifles, died while on patrol in southern Sangin following a bomb blast.

Rifleman Farmer's father spoke yesterday of his "pride" at seeing his son join the Army, while Cpl Brownson, who leaves behind a pregnant wife and two children, was described as a "hero".

Cpl Brownson, 30, from Bishop Auckland, was a man "brimming with energy, cheer, modesty and resourcefulness," his commanding officer said.

Lt Col Nick Kitson added: "Such was his self-confidence and inner strength that nothing was too much trouble for him in understanding and caring for the needs of those around him.

Rifleman Farmer was only 19. But tributes recalled a man who was "mature beyond his years".

Major Tim Harris, his company commander, described the young soldier as a "typical Yorkshireman: tough as granite, quietly self-assured and as brave as ten men. His platoon commander, Lt Palmer Winstanley, said: "Rifleman Luke Farmer was not your average rifleman.

He had a real depth of character. He was confident, strong and kind. He was a quiet man with a quick wit." Lt Winstanley added: "He stepped up to the mark as our lead man, responsible for finding improvised explosive devices with a metal detector.

This is an incredible undertaking for anyone, and it is certain that he saved many lives – British and Afghan – through his sheer resilience and bravery."

Seeing his son progress through the Army was a great source of pride to his father Mark.

Mr Farmer said yesterday: "I was the proudest dad at his passing out parade. I felt 20ft tall the day Luke received the award for fittest soldier within his intake.

"He could have one day gone to the Olympics as a 100m sprinter, he was that fast."

"Whether for his beloved wife and daughters at home or for his brothers in arms here in Afghanistan, his first priority was to take care of others."

Others paid tribute to the fallen soldier, known affectionately as "Browny".

Major Tim Harris, his company commander said: "Cpl Brownson was truly phenomenal. He was loved by his men, they all wanted to be just like him, their hero."

Major Harris said Cpl Brownson was "outstandingly brave.

"If there was a fight to be had he was always at the front.

"On one occasion, like the all-

action hero he was, he was hit by a piece of shrapnel in his shoulder, but refused medical treatment, dealing with it in the morning once the enemy had gone."

Friends in the Army remembered "Browny" fondly as they grieved.

L/Cpl Johnny Cassell, said: "He was known as a bit of a Del Boy in the Battalion and never failed to make me laugh with stories of his latest money-making schemes."

He leaves behind wife Leeanne, daughters Ginalee and Morgan and his unborn child, due in the summer.