Man remanded over soldier's death

A 21-year-old man appeared in court today charged with killing a soldier.

Private Matt Brooks, who served in the Royal Logistics Corps, was assaulted outside Yates' bar in Portsmouth, Hampshire, on May 13.

He suffered serious head injuries and died last Tuesday in the neurological unit at Southampton General Hospital.

The 18-year-old, from Trowbridge, Wiltshire, was enrolled on a course at HMS Sultan, Fareham, at the time of the incident.

Dean Aldcroft, of Warwick Crescent, Southsea, Hampshire, was charged with manslaughter and common assault.

His case was adjourned by Portsmouth magistrates to be heard at Winchester Crown Court on June 8 and he was remanded on conditional bail.

In a statement, Pte Brooks' parents said: "Matt will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him, especially his mum, dad and girlfriend Laura.

"He touched so many hearts and filled them with love, laughter and happiness, he loved life and lived it to the full, and was proud to be a soldier."