Major Mark Melhorn, Officer Commanding Fire Support Company with 3 RIFLES, described him as “awe-inspiring” and a man whose “face would really light up when he talked about his family”.

“In one 12-hour journey, he talked me through the route-card he had planned to perfection for his motor-homing holiday,” he said.

“The time flew as he talked passionately about all the fun he was going to have with his wife and children. His death leaves a huge hole in our hearts.”

Major James Richardson, Officer Commanding B Company, 3 RIFLES, said: “Big in stature but gentle in manner, he was a classic case of walking quietly but carrying a big stick.”

Serjeant Scott’s friends remembered him as “a soldier’s soldier”, with Colour Serjeant Paul Lucke, second-in-command of Recce Platoon, saying: “Scotty was devoted to all he turned his hand to, but nothing could compare to his devotion to his wife and children – he was forever caught slipping them into any conversation.

“A gap has appeared in the platoon that can never be filled.”

And the platoon’s Section Commander, Corporal Richard Green, said: “Scotty was a one-of-a-kind soldier – his diligence and work ethic made him the ultimate professional.”

Defence Secretary Bob Ainsworth said he was “deeply saddened” at the death of “a soldier who had a glowing Army career behind him and an equally bright future ahead”.

• The spelling Serjeant is correct for the regiment.