Gurkha killed in action in Afghanistan

A British soldier from the Folkestone based 2nd Battalion The Royal Gurkha Rifles has been killed in Afghanistan, according to the Ministry of Defence. The soldier, based at Shornecliffe barracks, has served in the army for almost 10 years, having joined in 1999.

He was killed by enemy fire in the Musa Qala area of Afghanistan when his patrol came under attack, the MoD said.

Ex-Gurkha Folkestone Town Councillor Dhan Gurung said:

"The people of Folkestone send our best wishes and sincere condolences to the family and friends of this brave soldier, who died fighting and working for Britain in Afghanistan."

Brigadier General Richard Blanchette said:

"Our deepest sympathies are with the soldier's family and friends as they deal with their loss. This soldier died honourably, helping bring security to Afghanistan."