Marine killed by Taliban named

The Royal Marine killed in a battle with Taliban fighters has been described as an "outstanding" serviceman who "died doing the job he loved".

Jonathan Wigley, of Zulu Company 45 Commando Royal Marines, based in Arbroath, died from injuries sustained during an operation on the outskirts of the town of Garmsir in Helmand Province on Tuesday, the Ministry of Defence said.

UK and Afghan forces were attempting to dislodge Taliban forces who have been responsible for attacks on the town in recent days.

The 21-year-old from Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, who joined the Royal Marines aged 17, was wounded and airlifted to the UK military hospital in Camp Bastion, but died of his injuries.

His commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel Duncan Dewar described him as an "outstanding" Royal Marine who died doing the job he loved.

Lt Col Dewar said: "Jonathan was an outstanding young Royal Marine whose tenacity, determination and professionalism shone through in everything he did. Extremely popular, with a lively sense of humour, he was very highly thought of by everyone who worked with him.

"He was an excellent Marine who died doing the job he loved and will be missed by all his friends in 45 Commando. Our thoughts are very much with his family at this difficult time."

Marine Wigley had served in Northern Ireland and with the Fleet Protection Group Royal Marines before passing the selection for 45 Commando's Reconnaissance Troop - despite sustaining a broken foot during the course.

Defence Secretary Des Browne said: "It was with great sadness that I learned of the death of Marine Wigley, who died in southern Helmand Province. My sympathy goes out to his family, friends and comrades.

"Marine Wigley was killed during an operation which successfully prevented the Taliban from continuing to attack Afghan civilians. By all accounts, his determination and tenacity as a Royal Marine were exemplary and his death is a great loss to the Service."