Gordon Brown paid tribute to the the 100 British troops killed in Afghanistan since 2001, saying that they had "achieved something of lasting value" by their actions.

The milestone was reached when a lone lnsurgent detonated an explosive device as a foot patrol from 2nd Battalion the Parachute Regiment was returning to base in Helmand province, killing three soldiers.

“My first thoughts and condolences are with the families of these soldiers, who died serving in Afghanistan with such distinction," the Prime Minister said in a statement.

“I want to pay tribute to the courage of all the 100 British troops who have given their lives in Afghanistan in the service of their country. The risks they bear and the sacrifices they make should be in our thoughts, not just today but every day.

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“They have paid the ultimate price, but they have achieved something of lasting value - helping turn a lawless region sheltering terrorists into an emerging democracy.”

Mr Brown added: “I do not believe democracy in Afghanistan would have survived without Nato and UN support - and British forces have been on the frontline of that international effort, and have acquitted themselves with great bravery and professionalism.”

Four soldiers were injured in yesterday's attack in the Upper Sangin Valley and evacuated to Camp Bastion for treatment. One was pronounced dead on arrival and, despite medics’ efforts, another two died from their wounds. The fourth soldier is expected to make a good recovery.

Next of kin have been informed and the soldiers are likely to be named tonight, the Ministry of Defence said. It was the biggest single loss of life in Afghanistan since August last year, when three soldiers were killed after a US fighter aircraft dropped a bomb on them as they battled insurgents.

The three deaths brought the total number of British fatalities in Afghanistan since 2001 to 100, although that figure includes 26 non-combat deaths. Fourteen UK personnel have been killed in Helmand so far this year.

Although the deaths, brought renewed calls for a UK troop pull-out, Armed Forces chiefs and senior MPs spoke of their pride in the sacrifice made by UK service personnel and the value of their mission.

Air Chief Marshal Sir Jock Stirrup, Chief of the Defence Staff, asserted that the British military effort in Afghanistan was starting to achieve real change. He said: “Every one of those deaths is a tragedy. Nothing can ever compensate for the loss felt by their loved ones and to them all I extend my deepest sympathies.

“I only hope that the terrible hardship that they have been asked to bear can be eased by the certainty that in Afghanistan our forces are engaged in a most worthy and noble endeavour.”

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