Tributes have been paid to the royal marine killed in Afghanistan on Saturday, named today as Darren Smith.

The 27-year-old became the 144th British soldier to die since the US-led invasion eight years ago when he was killed by small arms fire following a Taliban ambush in Helmand province.

Marine Smith, of X-ray Company 45 Commando Royal Marines, was described by the Ministry of Defence as the "epitome of a young royal marine".

A passionate Liverpool Football Club fan, Marine Smith had trials with Everton, Manchester City and Blackpool and leaves behind his girlfriend Kelly and their daughter Keira.

His commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel Jim Morris said Marine Smith was "irreplaceable" for the company.

"Brave, determined, modest yet fun-loving and full of life, he was always in the thick of the action whether on patrol or in his off-duty moments," Lt Col Morris said.

"He had an extremely bright future ahead of him and was viewed as one of the great talents in his company."


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