COLLEAGUES of a Flintshire soldier who died on an army base in Germany have paid tribute to a “cheerful, popular and easy going soldier”.

Robert Douglas Berry, 23, of Bagillt, was a trooper with 1st The Queens Dragoon Guards, known as ‘The Welsh Cavalry’.

The father-of-two, who was based at Paderborn in northern Germany, died two weeks ago.

His friends and fellow soldiers have spoken of their shock and sadness at his death.

Lt Col J.J. de Quincey Adams, Commanding Officer of 1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards, said: “Trooper Berry was a cheerful, popular and easy going soldier as well as a devoted family man.

“The whole regiment and particularly his very many friends, have been shocked and deeply saddened by this tragic loss of life. We have lost a fine soldier who was firmly embedded in this small family regiment. He had proved himself a capable soldier and had a bright future in the military.”

Trooper Berry was stationed in Germany while he prepared for deployment to Afghanistan later this year.

Trooper Joshua-Ryan Hicks, from 2nd Troop of C Sqn, QDG, said: “I remember calling him Jackie Chan because he loved martial arts; whenever I think of him I remember all of the funny things he would do. Words cannot describe how much I will miss Rob, not just as a colleague but as one of my closest friends.”

Trooper Gibbons, from MT Troop, HQ Sqn, QDG, knew Trooper Berry before he joined the Army and described him as “a really good friend of mine and my family”.

Trooper Kieran Welfoot, from HQ Sqn, QDG, said: “Bezza would have done anything for anyone. He will never be forgotten.”

A spokesman for the army has said the death is subject to an investigation and a coroner’s report.

Trooper Berry leaves several close family members including his wife Zoe, also 23, and young sons Harvey, three, and Jaiden, nine months.

Trooper Berry grew up in Greenfield and attended Greenfield Primary School and Holywell High School before joining the army three years ago.

The funeral will be held on Monday at St Mary’s Parish Church, Bagillt, at 10.30am, followed by interment at New Brighton Cemetery.

The family has asked for family flowers only but any donations can be made towards Help for Heroes.