Corporal Simon Hornby, who died while on foot patrol in Helmand on Saturday, remembered as a ‘highly respected leader’

Tributes were paid today to the latest British soldier to die in Afghanistan.

Corporal Simon Hornby, 29, from the 2nd Battalion, the Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment, was killed in an explosion while on foot patrol in the Nad-e-Ali area of Helmand yesterday. The Liverpudlian‘s wife, Holly, described the soldier as her “hero”. Hornby’s death brings the number of British service personnel who have died since the start of operations in Afghanistan in 2001 to 240, including 103 deaths this year.

Hornby had previously served in Iraq, where he was awarded a commendation for discovering an improvised explosive device and for spoiling an insurgent ambush.

He deployed to Afghanistan as a section commander with Arnhem Company, 2nd Battalion The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment as part of the 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards Battle Group, according to the Ministry of Defence.

The passionate Liverpool FC fan was stationed at Shamal Storrai patrol base and, as the most senior of the non-commissioned officers there, administered the base for his platoon commander.

Colleagues said Hornby, who was known as Si, thrived in the role and led by example and paid tribute to his love of life and sense of humour.

Hornby attended Halewood Comprehensive School before joining the army in 2000. His wife Holly said she was devastated by the loss: “He was proud to be a soldier and died doing the job he loved. He was my hero.”

Lieutenant Colonel Robbie Boyd, Commanding Officer, 2nd Battalion The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment, said he was “courageous” and a “highly respected leader”. “Always happy, always chirpy, he – as did we – lived for his sense of fun, humour and his infectious zest for life; now so sadly taken from him and us,” he said.

“He was a highly motivated young junior non-commissioned officer with his priorities fixed firmly around the welfare of his soldiers and the welfare of his wife, Holly, who we will support as a regimental family throughout her tragedy.

“He loved his wife, he loved the army and his regiment, and he loved his football team; Liverpool FC.”

He said he had stepped up to the “administrative challenge” of his role in Afghanistan “brilliantly”.

Major Jon Elliott, Officer Commanding Arnhem Company, 2nd Battalion The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment, said: “Cpl Si Hornby was fiercely loyal to his family, his regiment and his home town. He was a lively character with a natural tendency to see the lighter side of life, one which he lived to the full. A constant source of morale for his platoon, he was greatly respected by his colleagues and friends.”

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