A Colchester-based soldier has been killed in an explosion in southern Iraq.
Lance Corporal James McCue of 7 Air Assault Battalion, Royal Electrical & Mechanical Engineers, died on Wednesda
The 27-year-old came from Paisley in Scotland.
An MoD spokesman said the cause of the explosion is under investigation.
His commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel Mark Armstrong paid tribute to the soldier, who was single.
Lt Col Armstrong said: "He made a lasting impression on all of his colleagues."
Colchester MP Bob Russell said: "This is desperately sad news. Having come through a war with with the great fortune of no soldiers from Colchester Garrison dying in conflict, this is somehow more tragic that we should lose a brave young man in such circumstances."
Shadow defence secretary North Essex MP Bernard Jenkin said: "My heart goes out to his family who must have thought he would come back safely and how terribly, bitterly disappointed they must be.
Published Friday, May 2, 2003
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article