Shropshire-based soldier dies during training exercise in Wales

Ranger Maguire, 21, of the 1st Battalion, The Royal Irish Regiment based at Tern Hill near Market Drayton died on Wednesday whilst at the Castlemartin military firing ranges in Pembrokeshire.

Ranger Maguire joined the regiment in May 2010 and was deployed to Afghanistan in September that year.

Ranger Maguire was known to his army friends as High Tower because of his great height. He went to school at St Goban's College, near Bantry, in County Cork, Ireland.

His commanding officer, Lieutenant Colonel Colin Weir, said: "The entire Battalion is deeply shocked by this tragic event, and all our thoughts and prayers are with Ranger Maguire's family at this difficult time.

"He was a deeply professional and likeable young man and will be sorely missed."

Major Richard Bell, Ranger Maguire's company commander, added: "One of our very best, his loss has devastated everyone who knew him.

"Michael was always going to stand out from the crowd. Not only because he stood a towering 6ft 7ins tall, but because of his vastly cheerful outlook on life, natural charisma and irrepressible good humour.

"All of this ensured that he was extremely popular throughout the company and his loss is keenly felt."

The incident is being investigated by Dyfed Powys Police with the assistance of the Health and Safety Executive.

Police said the soldier's family and the coroner have been informed.