Loren Marlton-Thomas, 28, of 33 Engineer Regiment died in an incident in Helmand Province in Sunday.

His body was flown into RAF Lyneham in Wiltshire this morning along with Rifleman Andrew Fentiman, 23.

After a private ceremony for their families, hearses carrying their Union Jack-draped coffins passed along the high street of nearby Wootton Bassett.

Bomb disposal expert Cpl Marlton-Thomas was killed by an improvised explosive device while clearing a route in Gereshk in Helmand.

He grew up in Thornton-Cleveleys and lived with his wife Nicola in Braintree, Essex.

The soldier's senior officers paid tribute to his courage in carrying out one of the most dangerous jobs for UK troops in Afghanistan.

His wife said: "He did the job he loved and paid the ultimate price for his friends, comrades and country.

"We are proud to say we knew and loved him. A true hero in our eyes - you may be gone but you will never ever be forgotten."

Cpl Marlton-Thomas's younger brother, a senior footman to the Queen, took part in the traditional procession before the State Opening of Parliament on Wednesday despite his grief.

The Queen personally offered Fraser Marlton-Thomas, 25, words of comfort after he learnt the tragic news.

A total of 235 UK troops have died since the mission in Afghanistan began in October 2001, with 98 deaths this year alone.

For the full story, and more tributes see Saturday's Gazette.