THE Royal British Legion in Oxfordshire is making preparations for the repatriation of the latest British soldier to die in Afghanistan.

Lance Corporal James Brynin, from 14 Signal Regiment, was killed in Helmand Province on Tuesday and his repatriation will take place beginning at RAF Brize Norton next Tuesday.

Royal British Legion county chairman Jim Lewendon said the death was a tragedy.

He said: “I think it’s been six months since we had a repatriation.

“I was saddened to hear we lost him. It’s a tragedy and I imagine there will be a good public support. We all care and that will give comfort to the family.

“That’s 445 soldiers we have now lost in Afghanistan.”

The cortege will leave RAF Brize Norton at approximately 3.30pm and will arrive at John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford at about 4.30pm.

L/Cpl Brynin was deployed to Task Force Helmand in August as an intelligence analyst for a Light Electronic Warfare Team within the Brigade Reconnaissance Force of 7th Armoured Brigade. The soldier, from Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex, received a fatal gunshot wound while on duty.

In a statement, his family said: “Heart of a lion, we will always stand strong for you. We will never forget. Rest in peace.”

Defence Secretary Philip Hammond, said: “His colleagues and commanders have spoken warmly about his outstanding professionalism and selflessness. It is clear that he was a man of determination, ambition and high achievement.”