Tributes have been paid to a soldier from Saltash after he was killed while out on patrol in North Sangin, Afghanistan.

Acting Cpl Richard 'Robbo' Robinson (pictured), 21, of the 1st Batallion the Rifles, was killed during an ambush last Saturday. He was on patrol with his Operational Mentoring and Liaison Team (OMLT) and the Afghan National Army (ANA) platoon who he had been operating with since September 2008.

In a statement released by the Army, Richard's father, Ken Robinson, said: 'He has brought light and laughter into so many people's lives and it is these heart-warming memories that we will remember him by every day.

'Richard was an extremely precious young man and was always and will always be loved by his family.

'He will always remain a beautiful son, brother and very special friend to Janet, Ken, Matthew and Sophie.'

His brother, Matthew, serves with the Royal Scots Dragoon guards and is currently home on leave.

Serjeant Sean Ridler, Second in Command Sniper Platoon, 1 Riffles, said: 'He will be missed within the tightly-structured community of the Platoon, especially his strength in bad times.

'Robbo was a good soldier but most of all a great friend to have; the Platoon will be a different place as he will be solemnly missed by all.'

Saltash mayor cllr Derek Holley, said: 'On behalf of the town we would like to send our most sincere condolences to his family. Obviously it is little consolation at this sad time but he died serving his Queen and country and was doing his bit to make our lives that little bit safer.

'Saltash will never forget him.'