Trooper Robert Pearson, of the Queen's Royal Lancers Regiment, died in action in Afghanistan on 21 April, 2008, aged 22.

Trooper Oearson, known to fellow soldiers as 'Chesney' for his resemblance to the Coronation Street character, was from Grimsby. He had only been in the forces for just over a year, but had already established a reputation as a promising and popular soldier.

He was serving with the Armoured Support Company Royal Marines who were providing security for a supply convoy returning to Camp Bastion in the Helmand Province when his vehicle was hit by a suspected mine.

He received medical treatment after the blast but was pronounced dead on arrival at the base. Another soldier was injured in the explosion.

Trooper Pearson joined the Queen's Royal Lancers, his local regiment, in early 2007 and drove Scimitar reconnaissance vehicles and Viking all-terrain vehicles during his training.

He was deployed to Afghanistan in January 2008 as part of the Armoured Support Company Royal Marines in support of 52 Infantry Brigade after volunteering early.

He was a keen football fan and supported Blackburn Rovers. He had experienced a difficult year following the death of his mother in a car crash, but had continued to demonstrate a professional approach to his duties.

He was survived by his father Paul, stepmother Gillian, and sisters Terrie, Alex and Alivia.

His commanding officer, Lieutenant Colonel Richard Nixon-Eckersall, said: "Trooper Robert Pearson had only served with the Queen's Royal Lancers for just over a year. Yet, despite this, he had already made a name for himself in his squadron where he was a popular and well-respected individual.

"Trooper Pearson took a keen and professional interest in his job; his outgoing and confident manner giving a strong indication to his chain of command that he was a talent to watch. For those that might question whether or not today's soldiers are a match for their forebears he was ample proof that they are every bit as good and more."

Major Jez Stemp, of Armoured Support Company Royal Marines, said: "Trooper Pearson made an immediate impact on his arrival in Afghanistan, quickly demonstrating his abilities as both a highly professional soldier and a gifted Viking operator. He was an asset to both the Troop and Company alike and quickly proved to be a courageous and respected member of the team."

His squadron leader, Major Khashi Sharifi, said that Trooper Pearson "could not be faulted" and despite his relative inexperience he was always "thoroughly professional". He added: "He had a bright future which was cruelly cut short."

Lance Corporal 'Fed' Baldwin said: "Chesney was a good mate of mine. He always had a word to say and a strong opinion. He kept his head low when he got to the regiment and soon earned a good reputation as a hard worker."

Sergeant 'Jay' South, of Queen's Royal Lancers, said: "Chesney was a keen and happy soldier who always went out on the job with a huge smile. He loved going out with his friends and could often be found in fancy dress. He was full of life. He always performed well and achieved high grades on any course."