Tributes paid to Sunday Mirror's Rupert Hamer

Prime Minister Gordon Brown led the tributes to the 39-year-old father of three, praising Rupert and Phil's "courage, skill and dedication".

He said: "I was deeply saddened by this tragic news, and my heartfelt thoughts and sympathies are with the families, friends and colleagues of Rupert and Philip.

"Their courage, skill and dedication to reporting from the front line was incredibly important and ensured that the world could see and read about our heroic troops.

"Their professionalism and commitment to our forces will not be forgotten."

Conservative leader David Cameron joined the tributes.

He said: "I was deeply saddened to hear of the death of the Sunday Mirror's defence correspondent Rupert Hamer.

"British journalists regularly risk their own safety to report on the war in Afghanistan. Their job is a crucial one and their bravery is to be admired.

"My condolences go to Rupert's family - especially his wife Helen and their three young children.

"I'd also like to wish Philip Coburn who was badly injured alongside Rupert a speedy recovery.

"Our thoughts are also with the American and Afghan soldiers who died in the incident."

Sunday Mirror editor Tina Weaver said: "Rupert was a fine, fearless, and skilled writer.

"He believed that the only place to report a war was from the front line. As our defence correspondent he wanted to be embedded with the US marines at the start of their vital surge into south Afghanistan.

"He was a seasoned, highly-regarded and brave journalist who had reported from both Iraq and Afghanistan on many occasions.

"Affectionately known as Corporal Hamer in the office, he was a gregarious figure, a wonderful friend who was hugely popular with his colleagues.

"Above all he was devoted to his wife Helen and their three young children. Our thoughts and condolences are with Helen, his father Nick, who he was so close to, and the children he was so proud of."

Rupert joined the Sunday Mirror 12 years ago. He left for his fifth trip to Afghanistan on New Year's Eve, along with Phil.

Photographer Phil, 43, is in a serious but stable condition after sustaining leg injuries, but he has been able to speak to his family.

Ms Weaver said: "Phil is a veteran of conflicts in Iraq, Rwanda and Afghanistan who has been with the Sunday Mirror for eight years. He is a consummate all round journalist and brilliant photographer whose pictures grace any newspaper.

"He and Rupert made a dedicated team, working together around the world, sacrificing personal comfort countless times to record the reality of wars. We wish Phil a speedy recovery and send our warmest wishes to his partner and family."