A soldier who was killed by gunfire while on duty in Afghanistan will be repatriated to Oxfordshire tomorrow.

The cortege with the body of Lance Corporal James Brynin, 22, of the Intelligence Corps, 14 Signal Regiment (Electronic Warfare), will leave RAF Brize Norton for its journey to the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford at about 3.30pm.

L Cpl Brynin, known as Jay to his friends, died after being shot while on duty last Tuesday.

Lieutenant Colonel Mark Purves, commanding officer of 14 Signal Regiment, said: “Bright and engaging, Lance Corporal Brynin was immensely popular and an outstanding soldier in every respect.

“Having already completed one tour to Afghanistan, his appointment to support the Brigade Reconnaissance Force was indicative of his talent and leadership qualities.

“He was fit, determined and genuinely wanted to make a difference. His selection for promotion to full corporal earlier this year highlighted his flair for his chosen profession.”

He added: “A member of a small and specialist cadre, his selfless sacrifice to those around him typifies his commitment and unflinching bravery.

“He will forever be remembered with pride by his regimental family.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Jay’s parents, his close family and friends at this difficult time.”

L Cpl Brynin joined the Army in February 2011. Following his initial training he was posted to 14 Signal Regiment.

The soldier, from Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex, had served in Afghanistan last year and returned this August.

Lt Col Richard Slack, commanding officer of the 9th/12th Royal Lancers, the Brigade Reconnaissance Regiment, said: “He stood out due to his professionalism, his determination and his razor-sharp intelligence.

“He touched everyone with his zest for life and sense of humour.

“But above all he will be remembered for his extraordinary courage: when it mattered he stood up and was counted.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and his girlfriend Olivia.”

L Cpl Luke Garbett, of 236 Signal Squadron, 14 Signal Regiment, said: “If a man is measured by the opinions of his peers, Jay stood above us all.”

Major Kelly Burman, the commanding officer of 236 Signal Squadron, said: “This news has hit us, his squadron, hard but we are determined to remember James for the ever-smiling and cheerful young man and great soldier that he was. “We will remember him as an incredibly brave and selfless comrade. When his team came under heavy enemy fire, he stepped forward without hesitation to defend them.”

The cortege is due to arrive at the Headley Way entrance to the John Radcliffe Hospital at about 4.30pm.

Royal British Legion members will gather at the Memorial Garden in Monahan Way, Carterton, and in Headley Way to salute the cortege as it passes.