A British soldier has been killed by an explosion in southern Afghanistan, the Ministry of Defence said.

The serviceman, from The Royal Dragoon Guards, was guarding his comrades when he was hit by the blast in the Nahr-e Saraj District of Helmand Province yesterday afternoon. His family have been informed.

His death takes the number of British troops killed in Afghanistan since operations began to 299.

Lieutenant Colonel James Carr-Smith, a spokesman for Task Force Helmand, paid tribute to the soldier.

He said: "He was providing security for a patrol that was conducting a clearance operation when tragically he was struck by an explosion. He died doing his duty. He was a courageous and dedicated soldier who made the ultimate sacrifice. He will be greatly missed and his actions will not be forgotten. We will remember him."