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Rare VC honour for UK soldier

British soldier Lance Corporal James Ashworth, who died as he protected the lives of his comrades in Afghanistan, is to be awarded the Victoria Cross, according to a report.

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Victoria Cross to be awarded to 'outstanding soldier'

Lance Corporal James Ashworth, from Kettering, Northamptonshire, was killed in the Nahr-e-Siraj district of Afghanistan.

The 23-year-old died on June 13 when his reconnaissance platoon became involved in a battle with the Taliban inside enemy-held compounds.

L/Cpl Ashworth is understood to have deliberately exposed himself to enemy fire, and died from a grenade blast as he tried to protect his men.

His comrades spoke of their pride in his bravery and said the death of such an "outstanding soldier" would leave a gaping hole in the battalion.

Lance Corporal Ashworth was killed while fighting his way through compounds; leading his fire team from the front, whilst trying to protect his men; and he showed extraordinary courage to close on a determined enemy.

– Captain Mike Dobbin speaking at the time of L/Cpl Ashworth's death

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