A soldier from 32 Engineer Regiment has become the first to die in Afghanistan in 2014.

The sapper was the result of non-battle related injuries sustained in Camp Bastion, Afghanistan.

His commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel Steve Davies said the corps had 'lost a rising star' and a respected comrade, and friend. "At this most difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones," he added.

The incident did not involve enemy action and the serviceman's next of kin have been informed.

A total of 448 British forces personnel or Ministry of Defence civilians have died while serving in Afghanistan since the start of operations in October 2001.

Of these, a total of 404 were killed as a result of hostile action.