Marine Jonathan Crookes - the bravest of the brave

A Royal marine killed in an explosion while on foot patrol in Afghanistan was a university student from the Black Country.

Tributes were today paid to 26-year-old Jonathan Crookes, of Halesowen, who was described as "one of the bravest of the brave" and a "giant of a man".

The Birmingham-born reservist in the 40 Commando Royal Marines, was killed in the Sangin District of Helmand Province on Friday.

Outside of the Royal Marines he was studying for a degree in international relations at Aston University, Birmingham, and worked as a tree surgeon and labourer.

The former pupil at Earls High School in Halesowen was also a drummer in a band.

His devastated fiancée Danni Davis, 24, said: "He was the love of my life. I can't explain how much I loved him but I am so very proud of him. It was so hard to share him with the Marines and his duties but he always did it so well."

The couple had been saving to buy their first home.

His mother Sue Crookes said: "Jon was a caring, son, full of life. If he made up his mind to do something he always achieved it to a high standard. I am so proud of him. Generous with his time, if he couldn't do something for me, he would always find a friend in the Marines who could.

"He was studying international relations and he was using his experience with the Royal Marines to inform his thesis."

Lieutenant Colonel Paul James, Commanding Officer 40 Commando Group, Combined Force Sangin said: "Jonny Crookes was a giant of a man; in stature, in character and in life.

Supremely brave, he died at the front of his patrol. He gave confidence to all, and in particular his comrades who loved him like a brother."

Marine Crookes was killed within 24 hours of Sgt David Monkhouse, 35, of the Royal Dragoon Guards, and 20-year-old Airman Kinikki Griffiths.