Body of Cambs soldier returns to UK

THE BODY of a Huntingdon territorial army soldier who was killed in Afghanistan will be returned to Britain today (Friday, November 20). Rifleman Andrew Fentiman of the Seventh Battalion The Rifles (Seven Rifles) was killed as a result of small arms fire whils

THE BODY of a Huntingdon territorial army soldier who was killed in Afghanistan will return to Britain today (Friday, November 20).

Rifleman Andrew Fentiman of the Seventh Battalion The Rifles (Seven Rifles) was killed as a result of small arms fire whilst on foot patrol in Helmand on Sunday (November 15).

The 23-year-old worked as a regional sales manager for Team Studio Ltd, a software company based at Hinchingbrooke Business Park in Huntingdon. He intended to return to his civilian job after his tour of duty.

His body will be flown to RAF Lyneham in Wiltshire this morning (Friday, November 20), before passing through Wootton Bassett, in the town's 100th repatriation ceremony.

Paying tribute, Lieutenant Ben Heap, of Seven Rifles said: "He had a kind, gentle and cheerful manner and showed great consideration for others in everything he did. He was obviously happiest most when working alongside his section in the most challenging of circumstances, while still remaining to be a source of morale in the face of adversity. He died alongside his friends doing a job he loved."

He added: "To come to Afghanistan as a soldier takes courage, to volunteer takes more so. A constant source of morale for the lads, with his cheerful and unique demeanour. He will be sorely missed."

Rifleman Fentiman, from Cambridge, was killed a fortnight after saying he was "still waiting" for promised new body armour.