The Ministry of Defence has confirmed that the soldier, from 3rd Battalion The Rifles, killed in Afghanistan on Thursday, 5 November 2009, was Serjeant* Phillip Scott.

Serjeant Scott, aged 30, died following an improvised explosive device explosion in northern Helmand province. His platoon was attached to B Company during a deliberate clearance operation in the town of Sangin aimed at increasing security for local Afghans and preparing the ground for further operations

Born in Malton, North Yorkshire, on 9 May 1979, he joined the Army in 2001, completing initial training at the Army Training Regiment, Winchester, and the Infantry Training Centre, Catterick before passing out to join C Company, 2nd Battalion, The Light Infantry in January 2002.

Known as 'Scotty' amongst his colleagues, Serjeant Scott was a natural soldier: fit, robust and with an in-built feel for the countryside. Having grown up as a game-keeper's son in Yorkshire, he was perfect for the role of reconnaissance.

(* The spelling of 'Sergeant' with a 'j' is unique to The Rifles.)