A Royal Marine was killed by an explosion yesterday in Helmand Province, southern Afghanistan.

The Marine, from UK Landing Force Command Support Group (UKLF CSG), operating as part of 45 Commando Royal Marines, was killed in the Kajaki area, a spokeswoman for the Ministry of Defence said.

The Marine was taking part in a routine patrol when the explosion occurred, the spokeswoman added.

“He received immediate medical attention at the scene but sadly died of his wounds.”

Task Force Helmand spokeswoman Commander Paula Rowe said: “The death of this Royal Marine is a tragedy for everyone in Task Force Helmand.

“Whilst words cannot ease their loss, our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this desperately sad time.”

Next of kin have been informed and have asked for a 24-hour period of grace before further details are released. It is the second British loss in Afghanistan in 2009 and takes the total of British fatalities since operations began in October 2001 to 139.