Many tributes have been paid to Serjeant Phillip Scott by friends and comrades.

Warrant Officer Class Two (WO2) Jason Longmate, Company Serjeant Major (CSM) Fire Support Company, 3 RIFLES said: "Scotty arrived in Fire Support Company in May. He made an instant impact in the Recce Platoon and the Company. He was well respected by all his peers and men.

"His professional attitude infected everybody around him; Scotty was the original universal soldier, destined to go on to bigger and better things. The lads will miss his gloomy outlook on life.

"It was a constant talking point for the lads and Scotty was always ripped about it. I got to know Scotty professionally and found that his love in life was his wife and kids. My thoughts go out to his family at this sorry time."

Colour Serjeant Paul Lucke, Second-in-Command, Recce Platoon, said: "Scotty was a well respected Senior NCO by both his peers and other ranks across the battalion. He was a soldier's soldier and his place within the Recce Platoon will never be forgotten. He will be sorely missed.

"He had a great character and showed professionalism at all times. If it wasn't in the pamphlet then it wasn't meant to happen.

"He had two loves in his life: his mattress (he had become commonly known as the man-tress) and most importantly his wife and children.

"Scotty was devoted to all he turned his hand to, but nothing could compare to his devotion to his wife and children.

"He was forever caught slipping them into any conversation.

"A gap has appeared in the platoon that can never be filled. We have lost a good friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Ellen, his two children Ellie and Michael and his family."

Warrant Officer Class Two (WO2) Paul Kelly, Company Serjeant Major B Company, 3 RIFLES, said: "I've known Scotty since he joined the Battalion, his standards and professionalism are unquestionable, and have improved and developed throughout his career.

"For a big strong man he had a calm and easygoing personality, he had an unforgettable sense of humour and laugh that would encourage anyone to join in.

"Scotty was not only a Rifleman's Rifleman but he was a doting husband and father. At this difficult time our thoughts are with his family. Rest in Peace mate."

Serjeant Lee Slater, Section Commander, Recce Platoon, said: "Scotty, you were a top bloke in your job and civilian life, you were everything a Recce soldier should be.

"You will be sorely missed and your place in Recce platoon will never be forgotten. You were strong as an ox always.

"From training recruits at the Infantry Training Centre to the battlefields of Afghanistan you were clearly on top of your game. Rest friend you will not be forgotten"