Tributes paid to 'loyal and kind' soldier who died whilst on exercise

Tributes have been paid to a "charming and delightful" soldier who died whilst on exercise at Sennybridge Training Area in Powys.

The British Army said Private Adam Brocklehurst, 27, of the Infantry Training Centre (ITC) Support Battalion, died on 20 September. 

Pte Brocklehurst joined the Army in May 2019 and was a driver within 400 Troop, ITC Support Battalion.

The British Army said on its website: "Pte Brocklehurst was excellent at his job and had a very keen eye for detail and policy. He was always keen to understand what he was doing and why and would look to identify areas where he could add value.

"To lose a person of this quality and level of professionalism in such tragic circumstances is very hard to process. His closest friends and the wider battalion are devastated.

"His memory will be honoured within the troop and battalion, and he is fondly remembered as a caring, loyal, kind, and joyful character. Adam Brocklehurst will be sadly missed."

'His loss leaves a devastating hole'

Many of Pte Brocklehurst's colleagues have paid tribute, including ITC Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Phil Morgan, who said he exuded "loyalty" and "selfless commitment".

He said: "Private Adam Brocklehurst was a charming and delightful individual. He had an infectious personality and was always quick for a laugh and took any opportunities he could.

"Since arriving at ITC in August 2022, he had worked hard over the past year and was a standout performer across his troop, exuding loyalty, selfless commitment, and respect for others. He was showing great potential as a future leader.

"Tragically his career and life has been cut too short. Our deepest condolences are with his family during this sad time."

Major Raju Dura, Officer Commanding, Training Support (BABAJI) Company, said: "Pte Brocklehurst was assigned to Training Support (BABAJI) Company in August last year. He was a professional and dedicated soldier who had a positive attitude towards both his profession and his team.

"His persistent high standards, eye for detail and caring towards others made him a well-regarded member in the company. His dedication to deliver the Combat Infantry Course to training teams was exceptional.

"He passed away doing the job that he loved the most. We deeply miss him. On behalf of the company, I would like to extend sincere condolences to his loving family and friends."

Captain Leanne Parkes, Motor Transport Officer, said Pte Brocklehurst was an "excellent role model" to younger soldiers.

"He loved being in the Army and he loved being a driver. He once described it as 'the best job in the world'," Capt Parkes said.

"We loved having him in the team and his loss leaves a devastating hole within the troop. Our condolences are with his son and the rest of his family and friends."

'The most kind, caring and funny person'

A number of soldiers from 400 Troop also paid tribute.

Pte Pritchard described Pte Brocklehurst as a "mature, loving and caring man", adding: "When Pte Brocklehurst was around, you were never alone."

Pte Evison said: "Brock was an amazing soldier and was extremely knowledgeable about his job. He would assist with guidance whenever needed. Brock was a man's man, a pleasure to be around and was an honour to know and work with."

Pte Routledge said Pte Brocklehurst was "kind, polite and always had a smile on his face".

"He would always offer a helping hand if anyone needed it within work... My love and strength go out to his son and to the family."

Also paying tribute was Pte Barber who said Pte Brocklehurst was "the most kind, caring and funny person you could ask to meet".

"He always had time for all, no matter how busy he was," Pte Barber said.

"Adam was an exceptional soldier with an amazing future ahead of him. I couldn't be any prouder to have worked alongside him. He was a very fit and motivated person who had so much potential, an amazing friend and just a wonderful person in general.

"Adam was always cheerful; he was football-mad and was a passionate Formula One fan. My thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time. He was the heart and soul of everyone’s life when he entered it, he will be deeply missed."

Pte Wheeler said Pte Brocklehurst was "a very good friend to everyone in the troop", while Pte Wilson said he was "a top lad and was a good friend".

Pte Hughes said: "Pte Adam Brocklehurst was one of the most hard working and honest individuals I knew, he never complained about anything. He was a very family-orientated man and worshipped the ground his son walked on."

Pte Shannon said Pte Brocklehurst was "very respected", while Sergeant Thapa said he was "a determined and selfless individual".

"His personality was infectious, and he was very well-liked among the troop cohort," Sgt Thapa said.

"He loved every minute of being in the Army and the troop will miss his presence. Our condolences are with his family members, especially his son."

400 Troop Section Second-in-Command, Lance Corporal Phelemon Rai, also paid tribute. 

"Pte Brocklehurst was a very good soldier and on top of that a very good friend," LCpl Rai said.

"He was very keen on what he was doing and always tried his hardest at everything he did. He was always ready to help and support.

"It is very hard to believe that he has left us before his time. He will always be my thoughts and memory. My deepest condolences are with his son and family."