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The British soldier who was killed in a Iraq rocket blast has been named as Lance Corporal Brodie Gillon.

The 26-year-old served as a Reserve with the Scottish and North Irish Yeomanry.

LCpl Gillon is from Ayr in the southwest of Scotland.

Her commanding officer, Lieutenant Colonel William Leek, Commanding Officer Scottish and North Irish Yeomanry, said: "LCpl Brodie Gillon was a hugely popular character in the Scottish and North Irish Yeomanry and we are proud and humbled to have served with her in our ranks.

"She was a larger than life soldier who was determined to deploy on operations, help others, develop herself and gain practical experience.

"She had already achieved a great deal in her relatively short time with us and it was abundantly clear that she was destined for great things in her civilian and military careers. Her loss is keenly felt.

"My deepest condolences go to her family and loved ones. They are in my thoughts and prayers, and those of the wider Regimental family."

At least 12 people were injured in the attack on the Taji military camp, north of Baghdad last night.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson described it as an "abhorrent attack".

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said: "From the warm testimonies of those who served with her, it's clear that LCpl Gillon was held in the highest regard and was a shining example of what our Armed Forces and Reserves stand for, inspiring those around her and always putting others first.

(Image: Internet Unknown)

"My thoughts go out to her loved ones at this incredibly difficult time and we will ensure they receive all the necessary support."

The Iraqi military has opened an investigation into the attack.

It coincided with what would have been the birthday of Iranian general Qasem Soleimani, who was killed in a US drone strike in January.

LCpL Gillon specialised in reconnaissance and gathering intelligence on enemy targets and local environments.

LCpl Gillon's squadron leader, Major Craig Powers, who is head of A Squadron, said: "LCpl Brodie Gillon will be remembered with great fondness as an utterly professional soldier, an outstanding medic, and loyal friend to all in A (Ayrshire) Squadron.

"She was a hugely popular and very much respected member of the Squadron. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with her whole family."

About 400 British troops are stationed in Iraq, while the US has 5,200.