An investigation has been launched into the death of a Woodbridge-based soldier who collapsed during the week of a record-breaking heatwave.

Connor Morrison, 20, is believed to have suffered breathing difficulties at Rock Barracks on July 21, and died at Ipswich hospital on July 23.

An Army spokesman said: "It is with sadness that we confirm the death of Sapper Connor Morrison of 23 Parachute Engineer Regiment on July 23, 2022.

"Our thoughts are with Sapper Morrison's family and friends at this difficult time, and we ask that their privacy is respected.

"As his death is being investigated it would be inappropriate to comment further."

Sapper Morrison was a regular soldier with 23 Parachute Engineer Regiment based at Woodbridge, Suffolk.

His death is being investigated by Suffolk Police and the Health and Safety Executive alongside the Defence Safety Authority.

A Suffolk Police spokesman said: "We received a report from the ambulance service on July 21 reporting a male had collapsed in the Sutton area near to Woodbridge."

A spokesman for the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust said: “An ambulance, ambulance officer vehicle and East Anglian Air Ambulance were called to Rock Barracks, Sutton Heath, on July 21 following reports of a man with breathing problems.

“He was transported to Ipswich Hospital by ground ambulance, attended by air ambulance crew.”

In a tribute, West Lowland Battalion Army Cadet Force wrote: "The Battalion was saddened to hear of the tragic passing of former Balaklava Cadet CSM Connor Morrison yesterday.

"Connor was a well-liked and respected young man who had been a member of our Erskine detachment for five years, leaving in 2020.

"He touched the lives of many of our adult instructors and cadets during his time in the ACF, and will be remembered by many as a charismatic and enthusiastic young man. He will be sorely missed.

"Our condolences are with his family and friends at this difficult time."

The tribute continued, saying the sapper was "a shining example of all that is good about the ACF".

It added: "You are in the thoughts and hearts of your cadet family – we will forever treasure our memories of our shared cadet experience."

Woodbridge mayor Councillor Patrick Gillard said: “It is very sad to hear about the tragic death of Trooper Morrison from our own 23rd Parachute Regiment. It affects us all in Woodbridge when we hear that a member of our local regiment has given their life in the service of their country.”

An inquest into Sapper Morrison's death will be held at a later date.