Bomb disposal expert Brett Linley was 'true hero'

A bomb disposal expert from Birmingham killed in Afghanistan has been described as a "true hero".

Staff Sergeant Brett Linley, 29, died in an explosion while clearing improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Nahr-e-Saraj.

The Solihull-born soldier, of the Royal Logistic Corps, had saved many lives. On one occasion the Birmingham City fan unearthed three IEDs in the space of an hour.

S Sgt Linley had qualified this year as a high threat IED operator after perfecting his technique during three tours in Northern Ireland.

He is survived by his partner and his parents.

Lieutenant Colonel Gerald Strickland, commanding officer of 1st Battalion The Royal Gurkha Rifles Battlegroup in Nahr-e-Saraj, said: "The loss of Staff Sergeant Brett Linley has touched us all in this battle group. He had worked with us for most of the last three months through testing times. I have a vivid memory of him which I think captures everything that was good and courageous about him.

"After a soldier had been killed in an IED strike, Staff Sergeant Linley went forward to clear the area so that the soldier's personal effects could be recovered."

S Sgt Linley was killed on Saturday on one of the bloodiest weekends yet.

Lieutenant Colonel Gareth Bex, commanding officer of 11 Explosive Ordnance Disposal Regiment Royal Logistic Corps, said: "Staff Sergeant Linley was immensely proud of his Midlands heritage, Birmingham City Football Club and his broad 'Brummie' accent, dry humour and outgoing manner ensured that all who met him instantly felt at ease and couldn't help become a friend."