A Windsor-based soldier who was killed while trying to stop poachers in Malawi will be repatriated today.

The body of Guardsman Mathew Talbot, of the 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards, based in Windsor's Victoria Barracks, Sheet Street, will be flown to the RAF Brize Norton base and then driven through Oxfordshire to the John Radcliffe Hospital today (Tuesday) afternoon.

The 22-year-old died on Sunday, May 5, in the south African country in what was his first deployment after completing his training.

A Ministry of Defence statement did not confirm the cause of his death but reports in the local press said he had been crushed by an elephant.

His commanding officer, Lieutenant Colonel Ed Launders, described the 22-year-old as a "determined and big-hearted" man, who devoted his life to serving his country.

He said: "It was typical of his character to volunteer for an important and challenging role in Malawi.

"He was hugely proud of his work as a counter-poaching operator, and tragically died doing great good.

"Mathew was loved by his brothers in arms in the Coldstream Guards. We will sorely miss his humour, selflessness and unbeatable spirit."

Oxfordshire County Council confirmed the repatriation is due to take place.

A statement said: "We have been advised by RAF Brize Norton that the repatriation of Guardsman Mathew Talbot of the 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards will take place on Tuesday, May 14 2019.

"The plane will land at approx. 1.30pm and the cortege will pass the memorial garden around 3.30pm, reaching the John Radcliffe Hospital around 4.30pm."

When his death was confirmed last Tuesday, friends and colleagues paid tribute to Gdsm Talbot, describing him as an "exceptionally kind and friendly individual".

A keen photographer and Frank Sinatra fan, he spent his spare time learning the local language in Malawi and produced several photo albums documenting his life in the country.