The body of a Kent teenager who was the 250th soldier to die in Afghanistan has been repatriated.

Rifleman Peter Aldridge , 19, from Folkestone was killed in an explosion near Sangin in Helmand province earlier this month.

His family said in a statement: "Our son died a hero, he lost his life doing what he believed in. Peter said 'if I'm going to die I want to die a soldier'.

"Our son joined the Army as a Rifleman in the Royal Green Jackets and he didn't want to be anything else.

"He was determined to get his first tour of duty under his belt. He believed in the Army and was proud of his job and we are so proud of you Peter."

Lieutenant Colonel Rupert Jones, Rifleman Aldridge's commanding officer, described him as a "natural leader".

He added: "The last thing Rifleman Aldridge said to the medic treating him at the scene was to tell his mother that he loved her."

His body is being flown into RAF Lyneham before a cortege passes through Wootton Bassett.

Prince Charles is expected to visit the Wiltshire village this afternoon to thank the town for its support for repatriations.