1 June 2012 Last updated at 18:30 ET

British soldier shot dead in Afghanistan's Helmand

The number of British service personnel killed in Afghanistan since 2001 has now reached 416

A UK soldier has been shot dead during a foot patrol in southern Afghanistan, the Ministry of Defence has said.

The serviceman from 1st Battalion, The Royal Welsh, died on Friday after coming under small arms fire in the Nahr-e Saraj area of Helmand province.

He was fatally wounded and despite medical attention could not be saved. His family have been informed.

His death takes the number of British service personnel killed in Afghanistan since operations began in 2001 to 416.

Lt Col John Kernerm, of British Forces Helmand, said: "It is my sad duty to inform you that a soldier from 1st Battalion The Royal Welsh has died as a result of injuries sustained while on patrol in the Nahr-e Saraj district of Helmand province.

"The loss of the soldier will be felt by all in Task Force Helmand, but most deeply by his family and loved ones.

"Our thoughts and sympathy are with them at this difficult time."