Bomb expert is named.

A BRITISH Army bomb disposal expert killed by an improvised explosive device in Afghanistan was remembered by his wife as a "true hero".

Corporal Loren Marlton-Thomas, 28, from 33 Engineer Regiment, died while clearing a route in Gereshk in Helmand Province on Sunday.

His senior officers paid tribute to his courage in carrying out one of the most dangerous jobs for UK troops in Afghanistan.

The soldier's wife Nicola described him as "Army barmy'', adding: "He did the job he loved and paid the ultimate price for his friends, comrades and country.

"We are proud to say we knew and loved him. A true hero in our eyes -you may be gone but you will never ever be forgotten."

Cpl Marlton-Thomas, known as "Loz" to his comrades, who was from Thornton-Cleveleys in Lancashire and lived in Braintree, Essex, joined the Army in 1998.

He initially considered a career in the Parachute Regiment, but discovered his talents were better suited to the Royal Engineers.

CAPTION(S):

HERO Loren Marlton-Thomas.