The soldier killed in Syria on Thursday has been named as Sergeant Matt Tonroe from the 3rd Battalion the Parachute Regiment.

The MOD said he was "tragically killed in action whilst on duty" in Syria while on an anti-Islamic State operation.

A US soldier was also killed and five others wounded on Thursday by a roadside bomb, the US military said.

A statement released by the MOD reads:

"Sergeant Tonroe was born in Manchester on the 14th of August 1984.

"He enlisted in the Army on the 27th September 2004. On completion of his initial training, he joined the 3rd Battalion of The Parachute Regiment in Colchester where he served as part of the Sniper Platoon.

"He rapidly developed an array of competencies and combat experiences that were to lay the foundations of an outstanding career.

"During his service, Matt deployed numerous times on operations to Afghanistan and the Middle East.

"His distinguished service reflected a man that was happiest when professionally tested on operations.

"He relished responsibility, the opportunity to contribute and when the time came, to lead.

"He was a natural in this role.

"Matt was also a capable and respected parachutist. As a gifted instructor he was free with his time and his advice, and would dedicate himself to support and develop this skill in others.

"He was well known within his unit, well-liked by all and he will be sorely missed. When talking of Matt, his colleagues recount his humour, mischief and endless endeavours.

"Laid back, but a consummate professional, Matt was utterly selfless and always strived to achieve excellence.

"Matt was very much a family man, making every effort to see him beloved mum around numerous overseas deployments.

"He is survived by his mother Michelle, his brother Alex and girlfriend Olivia."

Sgt Tonroe’s Officer Commanding said: "If you had met Matt Tonroe, then you would have liked him.

"He bristled with the contentment of a life lived to its full.

"His bravery and talent as a soldier, was matched by his compassion as a human being.

"He was an individual, with the courage to set his own course, and the perspective to see new possibilities at every turn.

"He was destined for great things in our unit; his leadership was both natural and apparently effortless.

"He is already missed. Without Matt, our company has lost some of its humour; some of its warmth; and some of its sheer opportunism.

"We will always remember him."