Brit is 20th Para to be Killed

A Para yesterday became the 20th British soldier killed in Afghanistan since UK operations began there in 2001.

The soldier, from the 3rd Battalion, died fighting the Taliban in Sangin, Helmand province. Three of his colleagues suffered minor injuries during the clash.

Their battalion is based at Colchester Garrison in Essex. Defence Secretary Des Browne said, “I am deeply saddened.”

Five Afghan troops were also killed.

Nato forces were hitting back after an ambush on a police convoy.
Afghan and Nato forces used rockets, artillery and airstrikes to smash Taliban positions.
Britain’s death toll in lawless Helmand now stands at 11 in the last two months — including five in the Taliban “hotspot” town of Sangin.

Meanwhile, troops killed at least 71 insurgents in another battle to protect the country’s main highway.

More than 4,500 of Brit squadies are leading attacks on rebels in Helmand.