Army

Murdered Brecon Soldier Named

Two men have been arrested on suspicion of murder after the death of a soldier in a Welsh town centre.

Private Matthew Boyd, from the Royal Gibraltar Regiment, was found injured and unconscious on Lion Street in Brecon, Powys, at about 1am on Sunday. He was taken by ambulance to hospital but later died.

On Sunday a Ministry of Defence spokesman said:

"It is with great sadness and regret that the MoD can confirm a soldier from the Royal Gibraltar Regiment died in Brecon in the early hours of this morning. Dyfed-Powys Police are currently investigating and it would therefore be inappropriate to comment further on the circumstances."

"Our thoughts are with his family and friends and the regiment asks that their privacy is respected at this difficult time."

Private Boyd's family have paid tribute to him on Facebook. His grandmother, Maureen Boyd, said:

"My heart has just been broken in two."

Hi brother, Darren Boyd, said:

"World's best brother, best friend, best everything. Will always love you Matthew Ian Boyd."

Cordons and forensic tents are in place in the town's shopping area as detectives investigate the death.

Police in Brecon are appealing for anyone who was in the vicinity of Lion Street, Bethel Square, Tredegar Street or High Street between 12.30am and 01.30am, or who has any information that could assist with the inquiry, to call police on 101 immediately quoting reference number DP-20160508-024.

Brecon is home to the British Army's Infantry Battle School, with the surrounding mountains used throughout the year by troops, including special forces, for training and exercises.