THE commanding officer of a North-East soldier killed in a road smash in Cyprus last night led tributes to the 22-year-old.

Fusilier Daniel Whinham, from Gateshead, died in the accident which left Lance Corporal Marc Dryburgh, 23, of Ashington, Northumberland, fighting for his life.

Fusilier Raymond Robinson, 22, of Morpeth, Northumberland, was also hurt and is being treated for spinal injuries.

Lieutenant Colonel John Whitwam, Commanding Officer 2nd Battalion Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, said last night: "Fusilier Danny Whinham was one of our most impressive, professional, and popular young soldiers.

"He had proved himself on operations in Northern Ireland and now in Cyprus.

"Every member of the battalion feels his loss most strongly.

"We send our condolences and respects to his loving parents and family.

"We share their pride in an outstanding soldier and gentleman,"

The soldiers, stationed in Dhekelia on Cyprus' south-east coast, had only just arrived from Northern Ireland to replace the Queen's Lancashire Regiment.

The parents of Lance Cpl Dryburgh have flown out to Cyprus to be at his bedside.

A relative of Fus Whinham, who was single, said: "Everybody's devastated."

The soldiers' Land Rover was making its way from a garrison at Dhekelia to Ayia Nicholas when it hit a tree.

MoD chiefs have insisted the accident will be thoroughly investigated.

Local members of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers last night held a minute silence for Fus Whinham.