Tributes to Hackney-born Afghanistan veteran killed in parachuting accident

Former colleagues have paid tribute to a young Afghanistan veteran from east London who died in a parachuting accident.

L/Cpl Ali Woodford, 26, was taking part in a training expedition in Germany on Tuesday when the tragedy happened, the Army confirmed.

Hackney-born father-of-one L/Cpl Woodford, a keen DJ and golfer, joined up in January 2011. He served in Afghanistan as a heavy machine gun operator.

In a statement, 1st Battalion The Rifles said their former colleague was “a popular, well-liked Rifleman who was bright, cheerful and loyal”.

The battalion, based at Beachley Barracks in Gloucestershire, added: “He was a key leader within the Motor Transport Platoon, always one to raise morale during tough times.

“He could be direct and was not shy of owning up to the mistakes he had made with admirable integrity.

“He will be sorely missed by the battalion and those in the wider community upon whom he has made such an impact.”

Lt Col Charlie Grist MBE, L/Cpl Woodford’s commanding officer, called him “a remarkable force within the battalion”.

“A character amongst characters, he drank deep from life’s opportunities and was the first to volunteer for a testing task,” he said. “It was typical of him to be taking up the challenge of parachuting. His bright cheerful character was one that was sought out; he was a leader with presence and drive.

“We will miss his enthusiasm, his energy and his bright view on life. He was a great team player and a man to have your back.”