They are Private Nathan Cuthbertson, Private Daniel Gamble and Private Charles David Murray, all of 2nd Battalion, the Parachute Regiment (2PARA).

The men were fatally injured when a lone insurgent detonated an explosive device as their routine foot patrol was returning to base.

Four soldiers were injured in the attack in the Upper Sangin Valley in Helmand Province and evacuated to Camp Bastion for treatment.

One was pronounced dead on arrival and, despite medics' efforts, another two died from their wounds. The fourth soldier is expected to make a good recovery.

Pte Gamble's parents, who have not been named, said: "Dan died doing the job he was so proud to do, with the regiment he was so proud to be a part of.

"He was special because he had trained in the Afghan Pashtu language. He was special to his family and friends - a true hero in every sense, he will be missed by so many people more than he would ever know."

Pte Murray's family described his as "a little guy with a big heart". In a statement, they said: "David always dreamed of being a soldier like his uncle, papa and grandad.

"He made us proud, every day, in everything he did. He was the little guy with a big heart, although he would never admit it. He had the biggest, cheekiest grin that we had ever seen and he always made us laugh with his cheeky way."

Pte Cuthbertson's best friend Private Lee Cunliffe said: "I am truly sorry and gutted about what has happened to him out here, I have lost my best friend. He was an excellent soldier and man. I will never forget him and the good times we had together."