ONE of two British soldiers killed in Afghanistan was originally from Bishop Auckland, the Ministry of Defence confirmed tonight.

Corporal Lee Brownson and Rifleman Luke Farmer, both from the 3rd Battalion, The Rifles, died while on patrol in southern Sangin following a bomb blast on Friday.

Cpl Brownson, 30, who leaves behind a pregnant wife and two children, was originally from Bishop Auckland, County Durham.

He was a man "brimming with energy, cheer, modesty and resourcefulness," according to his commanding officer.

Lieutenant Colonel Nick Kitson added: "Such was his self confidence and inner strength that nothing was too much trouble for him in understanding and caring for the needs of those around him.

"Whether for his beloved wife and daughters at home or for his brothers in arms here in Afghanistan, his first priority was to take care of others."

He leaves behind wife Leeanne, daughters Ginalee and Morgan and his unborn child, due in the summer.

Rfn Farmer, from Pontefract, West Yorkshire, was only 19 years old. But tributes recalled a man who was "mature beyond his years".

His platoon commander, Lieutenant Palmer Winstanley, said: "Rifleman Luke Farmer was not your average rifleman. He had a real depth of character. He was confident, strong and kind. He was a quiet man with a quick wit."

Lt Winstanley added: "He stepped up to the mark as our lead man, responsible for finding improvised explosive devices with a metal detector. This is an incredible undertaking for anyone, and it is certain that he saved many lives - British and Afghan - through his sheer resilience and bravery."

His father Mark said: "I was the proudest dad at his passing out parade. I felt 20 feet tall the day Luke received the award for fittest soldier within his intake. He could have one day gone to the Olympics as a 100m sprinter he was that fast."

Read the full story in tomorrow's Northern Echo