A soldier from the 1st Battalion The Rifles, who are based at Beachley Barracks, near Chepstow, died in Afghanistan on Monday.

Corporal Mark Anthony Palin was killed while on an operation in Helmand province while recovering a cache of improvised explosive device components that had been discovered the previous evening.

Corporal Palin from Plymouth was a prominent Battalion personality; nicknamed 'Maldoon' by friends, he was widely known and extremely well liked by everyone who had the pleasure of serving with him. Corporal Palin leaves behind his loving wife, Carla and his young son Lennon. At this tragic time the thoughts of the Battlegoup are very much with them, along with his father Paul, brother Matthew and sister Louise.

Corporal Palin's family paid the following tribute: "Mark was unique, one in a million. He was loved deeply by all his family and friends. He was a devoted family man who adored his son and was so looking forward to the birth of his daughter. He will be deeply missed by all his family, friends and everyone who knew him."

Lieutenant Colonel James de Labillire DSO MBE, Commanding Officer, The First Battalion, The Rifles, said: "Corporal Mark Palin was a Battalion personality through and through. He thrived on the friendship of many, and was generous to a fault in the friendship he gave in return.

"He died leading from the very front, as was his way. He had a fearless bravery with which he just made things happen. And he was always restless and eager to help. In so doing he made himself the pivotal part of the team.

"He was hugely respected by his Riflemen and greatly relied on by his Commanders. A more selfless man you could never meet."

Corporal Palin is the third Rifleman to have been killed since the battalion went to Afghanistan in April.