MoD names soldier killed in Afghanistan

LONDON (Reuters) - The Ministry of Defence on Saturday named the British soldier killed in a firefight with Taliban militants in southern Afghanistan this week.

Dog handler Lance Corporal Kenneth Rowe of the Royal Army Veterinary Corps died after his patrol came under attack on Thursday in Helmand, a province that has been a focus of fighting with the Taliban.

His dog Sasha was also killed and six other soldiers were wounded.

His commanding officer Major Stuart McDonald said that Rowe had been scheduled to leave the area the day before he died, but had asked to remain because he was worried about the lack of cover for the search duties he performed.

"This unselfish action epitomised his professionalism and dedication to his job," McDonald said in a statement.

"I feel lucky to have known him and gutted to have said goodbye."

Fighting has intensified in southern Afghanistan in recent weeks with the Taliban planting more roadside bombs and ambushing British troops.

His death raised the number of British soldiers killed to 112 since Britain joined the United States in invading Afghanistan to oust the Taliban in 2001.

Britain has around 8,100 troops stationed in the country, serving as part of a 53,000-strong NATO-led force.

(Reporting by Michael Holden)