A YOUNG soldier from Hereford died following a crash in Gloucestershire.

Joshua Gilbert-Bufton, aged 20, died when the VW Golf he was driving was in a crash with a lorry on the A417 on Crickley Hill, near Birdlip, at about 4am on May 16.

His family said he will be greatly missed by all of his family and friends.

They said: "Joshua spent 15 years growing up in Torquay, before moving to Hereford and joining the army at 19.

"He was proud to be serving his country. Joshua's dad would like to thank the British Army so much for everything they have done for him, and their continuing support."

Gunner Joshua Gilbert-Bufton joined the Army in January 2017 and was posted to Colchester-based 7th Parachute Regiment Royal Horse Artillery in October 2017 after completing his training.

Serving with F (Sphinx) Parachute Battery Royal Horse Artillery, Gnr Gilbert-Bufton was deployed on exercises in Kenya and Germany and was preparing for the physical challenge of All Arms Pre-Parachute Selection Course (P Company).

Lieutenant Colonel Nick Morton, commanding officer of 7th Parachute Regiment Royal Horse Artillery said: “Gnr Gilbert-Bufton was a keen, diligent and eminently likeable soldier.

"Whether in the heat of Kenya or the cold of Germany he would always be found with a big smile on his face.

"A young soldier, he had a bright future ahead of him. He will be sorely missed by all members of his battery and the wider regimental family.”