THE parents of a second soldier from Penwith to be killed in Afghanistan in just over a fortnight have spoken of their immense pride in their son.

Sergeant Paul Fox, from St Ives, died last Friday after an explosion at a checkpoint in southern Nad-e-Ail, Helmand province.

The 34-year-old father-of-three was attached to the Brigade Reconnaissance Force and had been on foot patrol on February 26 when he encountered an improvised explosive device.

Sgt Fox became the 266th British fatality since the conflict began and his death came less than a week before the funeral of Mousehole soldier, Lance Corporal Darren Hicks, who died on February 11.

Sgt Fox leaves a wife Charlotte, 20-month-old daughter Ruby, and sons Archie, five, and Jack, 11. His father, Maurice, and mother, Alex, said he had been "more than special, more than a legend.

"He was the best son in the world and we are very, very proud of our son," they said in a statement.

"He was a devoted father and husband – his loss leaves a massive void in our lives and we will miss his fun loving affection so much."

Sgt Fox, also known as Foxy, was born in Manchester but moved to St Ives with his family when he was 11 years old.

He joined the Royal Engineers in August 1994 and was trained as a combat engineer and welder before moving steadily through the ranks.

In 2008 he joined the Regiment's Reconnaissance Troop and was chosen for the Recce Selection Cadre.

He became a troop sergeant with the Brigade Reconnaissance Force and was deployed to Afghanistan in October.

Lieutenant Colonel Matt Bazeley RE, Commanding Officer, 28 Engineer Regiment, described him as "above all else a quite outstanding man.

"He was a tremendous soldier, impressive leader, fine engineer, good friend, cracking SNCO (senior non commissioned officer) but principally just a great man."

The avid Manchester United supporter was a midfielder for St Ives Town who played his last game shortly before leaving for Afghanistan. His father recalled: "I remember his disappointment at having to decline a place on the team during his last home leave," he said.

"He didn't wish to risk an injury which might jeopardise his fitness to go to Afghanistan with his unit."

The family will attend a repatriation ceremony at RAF Lyneham today.

A delegation, including St Ives mayor Yvonne Watson, will pay its respects as the hearse passes through Wootton Bassett.

A funeral with full military honours will be held in St Ives within the next two weeks.

More tributes, plus details of the funeral of L Cpl Darren Hicks: page 6.