A British soldier has died following a bomb blast in southern Afghanistan, the Ministry of Defence has said.

The serviceman, a member of 216 Parachute Signal Squadron, Royal Corps of Signals, died from injuries sustained on Tuesday in the Nahr-e Saraj district of Helmand province.

He was part of an operation to disrupt Taliban movement in the region, when the vehicle he was travelling in came hit a roadside IED.

Next of kin have been informed.

Lieutenant Colonel David Eastman, of Task Force Helmand, said: "The soldier was patrolling in the Nahr-e Saraj district of Helmand, bringing security and stability to an area previously dominated by insurgent intimidation...

"His loss is a bitter blow, especially during this season of peace and goodwill.

"He died making a better, safer life for others; his sacrifice will not be forgotten."

A total of 347 UK military personnel have died since operations in Afghanistan began in 2001.

Date : 22-12-2010