A SOLDIER who was killed during a training exercise at Otterburn has been named as Conor McPherson.

The 24-year-old, from the Paisley area of Glasgow, was serving with the Royal Regiment of Scotland.

Police and the Health and Safety Executive are jointly investigating the circumstances surrounding the death, which happened at around 11.15pm on Monday.

Police say the investigation has the full support of the Ministry of Defence and the British Army.

A spokesman for the police said: "

Specialist officers are currently supporting his family at this incredibly difficult time.

"At this stage we believe this was a tragic accident and there are no suspicious circumstances."

Armed Forces Minister Mike Penning said: "My thoughts are with the soldier’s family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time.

“The safety of our personnel is our absolute priority and while deaths in training don't happen often, any death is a tragedy.

"As well as a police investigation, MOD accident investigators are looking into the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident."