It is with deep regret that the Ministry of Defence can confirm the death of Staff Sergeant Simon Cullingworth of 33 Engineer Regiment (Explosive Ordnance Disposal). Aged 36, Staff Sergeant Cullingworth came from Essex and was married with two sons.

Lieutenant Colonel Anthony Troulan, the Commanding Officer of 33 Engineer Regiment (Explosive Ordnance Disposal), issued the following statement:

"SSgt Cullingworth was an extremely experienced soldier who was in line for promotion and whose dedication to duty and professionalism won him the respect of everyone he served with. This was his third tour of duty with the Regiment; he had already served as a Bomb Disposal Officer in the Balkans and Afghanistan. He leaves behind his wife Allison and two young sons aged 8 and 3.

"The family has been informed and we are giving them as much support as we can through this difficult time."

The media are asked to respect the family's privacy.

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