'He was killed for his country'

Christopher Bridge, aged 20, Senior Aircraftman, died on Thursday morning when the vehicle he was travelling in was caught in an explosion. He was part of a group carrying out a routine security patrol around Kandahar Airfield, southern Afghanistan.

A civilian interpreter was also killed in the incident and two other servicemen received minor injuries.The RAF said it was not yet known what caused the explosion but an inquiry would look into the tragedy.

Last night Christopher's devastated mum Nicolette Williams left a moving tribute to her hero son on the door of her home on Oaks Fold Road in Shiregreen.

A handwritten note pinned to the door read: "Christopher I love you with all my heart and so very proud of you son. Love you always and 4 ever, Mum."

Ms Williams described Christopher as her "pride and joy" and said he had touched hundreds of lives.

"Everybody is heartbroken who knew him. He touched so many lives," she said. "He died courageously serving his country and Queen and we are all proud of him."

Christopher, known to colleagues as SAC Bridge, was part of C flight, 51 Squadron Royal Air Force Regiment, which is a ground force, effectively operating as infantry troops, defending air bases such as Kandahar.

Christopher had joined the RAF on June 12 2005 and had served in Iraq before his posting to Afghanistan in April. The squadron was due to return home in the next few weeks.

Defence Secretary Des Browne today paid tribute to him: "Senior Aircraftman Christopher Bridge was held in very high regard by his comrades and officers.

"His death is a tragic loss which is being felt by all who knew him. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and comrades at this most difficult of times."