A soldier who was killed while on checkpoint duty in Northern Ireland has been posthumously given a top bravery award.

Colchester-based Corporal Gary Fenton, was hit by a petrol tanker as it drove through a roadblock in south Armagh last June.

Cpl Fenton, 29, was in collision with the vehicle as he tried to flag it down and died from his injuries at the scene.

His service in the province has been rewarded with the Queen's Commendation for Bravery.

Cpl Fenton was serving with the 1st Battalion, the Royal Gloucester, Berkshire and Wiltshire Regiment on a six-month tour of duty based at Bessbrook.

The battalion's commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel Patrick Tomlinson, said: "We are extremely pleased Cpl Fenton's bravery has been recognised in this way.

"However, at the same time it is very sad we have lost such a professional and highly-dedicated soldier," he added.

Four other members of the battalion have been awarded the Northern Ireland Commendation for outstanding service during the tour last year.

A 37-year-old man is awaiting trial in connection with the incident charged with reckless driving causing death.

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