THE Royal Marine from Taunton-based 40 Commando killed in a blast in Afghanistan on Friday has been named as Jonathan Crookes.

Marine Crookes, from Charlie Company, serving as part of Combined Force Sangin, was killed in an explosion while on foot patrol in the Sangin District of Helmand Province.

He was born in Birmingham and lived with his mother and fiancée, Danielle in Halesowen, West Midlands. He was 26 years old, and was a younger brother to Robert and Jane.

His mother Sue Crookes said: "Jon was a caring, thoughtful son, full of life.

"If he made up his mind to do something he always achieved it to a high standard. I am so proud of him.

"Generous with his time, if he couldn't do something for me, he would always find a friend in the Marines who could.

"We would be grateful if the media would leave us in peace to grieve together."

His fiancée Danni Davis, who had been with Marine Crookes for six years, said: "He was the love of my life. I cant explain how much I loved him but I am so very proud of him.

"It was so hard to share him with the Marines and his duties but he always did it so well."

Lieutenant Colonel Paul James, Commanding Officer 40 Commando Group, Combined Force Sangin said: "Marine Jonny Crookes was a giant of a man; in stature, in character and in life.

"Supremely brave, he died at the front of his patrol – a position which requires enormous skill and courage, and a position that he filled with consummate professionalism.

"He gave confidence and reassurance to all, and in particular his friends and comrades in Charlie Company who loved him like a brother.

"He was an inspirational marine who, as a Reservist, volunteered again to come to Sangin with 40 Commando.

"He was a bright, strong, fearless man with a selfless, determined, but well-humoured and affable manner; everyone admired Jonny Crookes.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with his mother, his fiancée, his family and friends.

"He was truly one of life's great men and will be sorely missed by all in 40 Commando.

"Marine Jonny Crookes was, and always will be, a Royal Marines Commando."