[Ella]

Liam McLaughlin
I was at the same School as him, and my sister was a close friend of his And he is one of my friends Brothers

Lance Bombardier Liam 'Paddy' McLaughlin, 21, of the 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery, died with his good friend and colleague Lance Bombardier Ross Clark, during a rocket attack in the Sangin area of Helmand province on Saturday.

Liam McLaughlin with friend and colleague Lance BombardierRoss Clark.

Liam, who was a pupil at Ripley St Thomas School in Lancaster and whose family lived near Aldcliffe until moving back to Ireland a few years ago, served all over the UK and abroad.

Deployed to Afghanistan in September 2006, Liam proved himself a versatile and highly effective soldier.

Speaking on behalf of the Regiment, his Commanding Officer, Lt Col Neil Wilson RA, said: "Paddy was a real character, that rare combination of natural verve and determined professionalism that is an absolute pleasure to be around.

"He was an extremely popular young soldier, and undoubtedly had a bright future ahead of him. He leaves a void that will be felt by the entire regiment, who are deeply shocked to a man.

"That he should be lost alongside team-member and friend, Lance Bombardier Ross Clark, is particularly saddening, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends."

Defence Secretary Des Browne said: "I was greatly saddened to hear about the deaths of L/Bdr Ross Clark and L/Bdr Paddy McLaughlin in Afghanistan on Saturday.

"By all accounts, they were clearly very professional, capable soldiers who were greatly respected by those who worked with them."

Liam's family did not wish to comment.

Headteacher of Ripley High School, Liz Nicholls, said staff at the school remember Liam with great affection and send their love and prayers to his family.

Pupils have been signing a book of remembrance and leaving floral tributes to Liam.