The soldier was on foot patrol in Musa Qaleh in Helmand province when he was caught in the blast.

Next of kin have been informed. The death brings to 96 the number of British personnel who have died in Afghanistan since 2001.

An MoD spokesman said no one else was injured in the blast.

The family of the soldier has asked that no further information about him be released.

Meanwhile, a second soldier fighting for the International Security Assistance Force (Isaf) has died in Afghanistan.

His nationality has not been released but the MoD confirmed he was not British.

Isaf spokesman Brigadier General Carlos Branco said: "Our hearts and minds are with the families and other loved ones of the dedicated soldiers who died today.

"These soldiers died honourably, helping to bring security to the people of Afghanistan."