Two members of Royal Scots Borderers killed in Afghanistan explosion

Ministry of Defence has confirmed that two soldiers from The Royal Scots Borderers, 1st Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland (1 SCOTS), part of the 3 RIFLES Battle Group, were killed in Afghanistan on Sunday 7 February, 2010.

The soldiers died as a result of an explosion near Sangin, in Helmand province.

Spokesman for Task Force Helmand, Lieutenant Colonel David Wakefield, said: "It is with deep sadness I must inform you that two British soldiers were killed last night by an explosion near Sangin in northern Helmand.

"They were from The Royal Scots Borderers, 1st Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland, part of the 3 RIFLES Battle Group, and were on a foot patrol bringing security to local people near Patrol Base Wishtan when the explosion caught them.

"Two of our comrades have been cruelly taken from us but their bravery and fortitude will not be forgotten."

Next of kin have been informed and have asked for a period of grace before further details are released.