A Runcorn man has been named as the latest British soldier to die in Afghanistan.
Signaller Ian Gerard Sartorius-Jones, 21, was killed by a gun shot wound at Forward Operating Base Khar Nikah in the Nahr-e Saraj, Helmand province on Tuesday.
No one else is being investigated into the cause of his death, which is not thought to be due to hostile action.
A statement from the father-of-one's family said: "Ian was a lovable character, a devoted father to Dylan, who is eight months old, husband to Kellyanne, a wonderful son to Robert and Amanda, and brother to Alan.
"He will always be missed and loved by all his family and friends."
Signaller Sartorious-Jones enlisted in the Royal Corps of Signals in February 2007 before joining his squadron in May 2008, where he was deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan.
The former British national Tae Kwon Do champion's comrades paid tribute to the soldier, who was a popular member of his squadron.
Staff Sergeant Paul W Griffiths, Tigris Troop Staff Sergeant, said: "Signaller Sartorius-Jones, 'S-J', was a much liked and popular member of the Signal Squadron as a whole.
"S-J had a promising career ahead of him, whichever path he chose. A popular lad both in work and outside, he fitted in well with the small, tight-knit team.
"He will be sorely missed by all those in the squadron and not easily replaced. His death has been a shock to us all."
Signaller Craig Billins, a former army roommate of the soldier, said: "S-J was one of my most devoted friends. A lively and fun person to be around, he always had something to say.
"Knowing him closely for over three years, he became a dear friend.
"Prior to S-J getting married and moving in with his wife, we shared a room together at 200 Signal Squadron and shared many good times over a beer.
"I will always miss him and the good times that we shared; my heart goes out to his wife and young son."
And Signaller Anthony King, Queen’s Royal Hussars Rear Link Detachment paid tribute to his close friend.
He said: "S-J was the sort of person who always cracked a joke or had something to say when he walked into a room. Everyone knew him and he was liked by everyone whose life he entered.
"I have known S-J for a relatively short period of time, but in that time he has become a very close friend.
"I am extremely proud to say that I have known him. He would always make me smile, and he was a pleasure to be around.
"My thoughts go to all of his family, friends and especially his wife and young son Dylan. He will be missed by all who knew him and will never be forgotten."
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