Tributes paid to 'fearless' and 'exceptional' British Major who died in Kenya

A British soldier has died while off-duty in Kenya, the MOD has said.

The BBC has reported that 32-year-old Major Kevin McCool was on a motorcycle trip off base when he was attacked.

It is understood his family has been informed.

Major McCool served in Europe, the Middle East, the Falklands and Africa. The MOD said, "wherever he went he left his mark", praising his "glittering operational record" and "legendary" fitness.

The MOD added: "His enthusiasm was infectious. He had a mischievous twinkle in his eye, that made him tremendous fun to be with.

"Yet his professionalism and sense of purpose was paramount, and clear to all those lucky enough to serve with him. Whether it was his recruits in his Catterick Platoon or those in his Rifle Company, he had their unwavering loyalty."

Maj McCool's Commanding Officer said: "Kevin McCool was living his best life, doing a job he loved, with people he loved. A man of the utmost integrity, he was fearless and oozed moral courage.

"I will never forget my final memory of him, which was on operations; he had just come off the ground having slept a handful of hours in as many days. We discussed the possibility of having to deploy another team into the operational furnace from which he had just come. He stopped me mid-sentence, fixed me with his piercing blue eyes, and simply said, "send me".

"A bright light has gone out amongst our ranks. He will be missed, but never forgotten."

UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said: "It's clear from the tributes of those who knew him that Major McCool was an exceptional person and an exceptional soldier, loved and respected in equal measure, who served his country with distinction.

"My thoughts and sympathies are with his family, friends, and colleagues currently coming to terms with this most tragic loss."