British soldier killed in Afghanistan named

British solider killed while on duty in Afghanistan on Sunday has been named by the Ministry of Defence (MoD).

Corporal Joseph Etchells, of the 2nd Battalion the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, was killed as a result of an explosion while on foot patrol near Sangin, northern Helmand Province.

Paying tribute to the 22-year-old, Lieutenant Colonel Charlie Calder, Commanding Officer of 2nd Battalion the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers said: “Corporal Etchells was a remarkable young man.

“He showed a gift for soldiering that touched all who worked with him. His enthusiasm, determination, loyalty and professionalism would have seen him progress with ease through the ranks.

“Above all he will be remembered for the friendships that he easily made; at home, in barracks or facing daily adversity in Afghanistan.”

Defence secretary Bob Ainsworth also paid tribute to the fallen soldier.

“Corporal Joseph Etchells was clearly a soldier dedicated to his men and put their wellbeing ahead of his own,” he said.

“His loss will be keenly felt by all who knew him and my thoughts are with his family and his fiancĂ©e and daughter.”

Corporal Etchells’ death took the number of British soldiers killed in Afghanistan since operations began in 2001 to 186.