A BRITISH soldier from Richmond, North Yorkshire who died in southern Afghanistan was remembered today as the toughest of men and the gentlest of friends.

Serjeant Phillip Scott, 30, of 3rd Battalion The Rifles, was killed by an improvised explosive device near Sangin in Helmand Province yesterday morning.

He leaves behind his widow, Ellen, and children Ellie, three, and Michael, one.

Mrs Scott said: "My husband was a very brave man, loved by all his family and a very dear husband and father."

Serjeant Scott's platoon was attached to B Company during a deliberate clearance operation in the town of Sangin aimed at increasing security for local Afghans and preparing the ground for further operations when the explosion happened.

A spokesperson for the MoD said: "Serjeant Scott, known as 'Scotty' amongst his colleagues, was a natural soldier: fit, robust and with an in-built feel for the countryside.

"Having grown up as a game-keeper's son in Yorkshire, he was perfect for the role of reconnaissance.

"A career soldier, he aspired to pass Special Forces selection after the tour.

"Having excelled at everything in his career this would have been entirely within his abilities.

"Well liked and respected amongst those he worked with and for, he showed almost infinite potential and was certainly on a path of rapid promotion and excellence."

Lieutenant Colonel Nick Kitson, Commanding Officer 3 RIFLES Battle Group, said: "Serjeant Scott was the most professional of soldiers, the toughest of men and the gentlest of friends.

"Naturally charming and disarmingly polite, he was considerate and compassionate to his core.

"Uncompromisingly assiduous at work, he was an inspiration to all and a mentor to those he led in training and on the field of battle.

"Generous and unassuming, Serjeant Scott brought calm, happiness and confidence to all around him.

"We shall miss him, both as part of our team for the current fight and for the long term as a beloved family member. Our thoughts and prayers are firmly with his wife and young children, his family and his friends."