Shot British soldier named by MoD

L/Cpl Tasker and dog Theo were both killed by small arms fire

A British soldier shot dead in Afghanistan on Tuesday has been named by the Ministry of Defence.

He was Lance Corporal Liam Tasker of The Royal Army Veterinary Corps, 1st Military Working Dog Regiment.

L/Cpl Tasker was taking part in a patrol with his dog, Theo, when they were engaged by small arms fire.

The 26-year-old soldier, from Kirkcaldy, Fife, died at the scene, while the dog suffered a seizure and died returning to base.

He leaves behind his mother Jane Duffy, his father Ian Tasker, his brother Ian and his two sisters, Laura and Nicola, and girlfriend Leah Walters.

His death brings the total number of UK military personnel to have died since operations in Afghanistan began in 2001 to 358.

In a statement the Ministry of Defence called him a "rising star".

"In a short period of time, he had significant success locating improvised explosive devices, weapons and bomb-making equipment. His success undoubtedly saved many lives," it said.

Paying tribute, his family said: "There are three words that best describe Liam, larger than life.

"He lit up every room he walked into with his cheeky smile. He was the best son, grandson, brother and friend you could ever wish to meet.

"He died a hero doing a job he was immensely passionate about. We are so proud of him and everything he's achieved.

"Words can't describe how sorely he will be missed."

His girlfriend added: "LT never met anyone without touching their lives in some way. The amount of support both I and his family have received in the last day alone pays testament to this.

"I am the proudest girlfriend there could ever be and there will be an LT-sized hole in my life forever. Sleep well my darling, my soul mate, my best friend."