THE cousin of a soldier killed during a training exercise has said he was a "top lad" and will be missed by his family.
Private Cameron Laing, of Hucknall, died after being struck by an uncoupled trailer on his way back to Okehampton battle camp, in Devon, on Tuesday evening.
The 20-year-old, who served with 7 Theatre Logistic Regiment Royal Logistic Corps, suffered severe head and chest injuries and was pronounced dead at 9.45pm.
Private Laing and his partner were expecting a baby boy and had already decided to name him Cameron.
His cousin Josh Queeny, 22, also served in the Army between 2008 and 2011.
He said: "He was my little cousin, he was a top lad and he will be loved and missed by his family and his son. He was just looking forward to being a dad."
Ashfield district councillor for Hucknall East, Dave Shaw, offered his condolences.
He said: "I was shocked and saddened when I heard of Cameron Laing's death.
"My son actually knew Cameron – they went to school together at Holgate so he's very upset by the news.
"My deepest sympathies go to his family at this time."
Mark Spencer, MP for Sherwood, also paid his respects to Pte Laing and the work of the Armed Forces. He said: "The tragic death of Pte Cameron Laing in Dartmoor on Tuesday morning is a solemn reminder of the risks and dangers taken by all our Armed Forces personal.
"The sacrifices they make to protect our freedom should always be in the forefront of our minds when these such incidents occur and our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time."
Pte Laing joined the Army in 2011 and had been serving with 7 Theatre Logistic Regiment Royal Logistic Corps for just over a year.
A statement released by his family and partner, Jessica Morris, said: "Cameron was an amazing son, brother, boyfriend and expectant father.
"He was a loveable rogue, always playing practical jokes and the fun in any situation. He couldn't wait to be a father to his son, baby Cameron.
"He will be sorely missed by everyone whose life he touched."
