Two soldiers killed in Afghanistan while saving a wounded comrade during a firefight with the Taliban are to be repatriated in Wiltshire today.

Corporal Matthew Stenton, The Royal Dragoon Guards and Lance Corporal Stephen Monkhouse, 1st Battalion Scots Guards, were shot dead by Taliban gunmen as they raced to help the injured soldier in Lashkar Gah, Helmand Province, on July 21.

Their bodies are to be repatriated to RAF Lyneham followed by a private ceremony.

The cortege will then pass through nearby Wootton Bassett where it has become tradition for hundreds of shopkeepers, residents and visitors to gather in silence as each fallen serviceman is repatriated.

Cpl Stenton was commanding a Viking Armoured vehicle and L/Cpl Monkhouse was the gunner of a Coyote vehicle when the Taliban shot and injured another soldier.

Cpl Stenton moved his vehicle to lay down fire and extract the soldier, while L/Cpl Monkhouse provided fire support while he was evacuated when they were both killed.

Defence Secretary Dr Liam Fox said: "I was extremely saddened to hear of the deaths of these two brave young men who died going to the aid of their injured comrade.

"Cpl Stenton was a tenacious soldier and a role model for the younger men in his unit. L/Cpl Monkhouse was a talented drummer as well as highly valued soldier who clearly had a bright future ahead of him.

"Their comrades all speak of their unflagging enthusiasm for their work and cheerful outlook, and they will be sorely missed.

"My thoughts are with the family, friends and comrades of both men at this very difficult time."