Tributes for British soldier killed in Afghanistan

THE family of a British soldier originally from Fiji who died in an explosion in southern Afghanistan paid tribute to him today saying he was "a hugely loved man".

Private Joseva Saqanagonedau Vatubua, 24, of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, 5th Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland, was killed on Saturday near the Nahr-e Saraj district of Helmand Province.

In a statement released through the Ministry of Defence, his relatives said: "As a family we can't put into words how proud we are of Joseva.

"He loved his job and he loved being in the family of The Royal Regiment of Scotland.

"Joseva was a keen rugby player and he was proud to play for the Army Sevens team.

"Joseva was also a member of the Battalion's Fijian Choir and he has sung in Canterbury Cathedral.

"Joseva is a hugely loved man who we will always miss but never forget."