Corporal Geoffrey McNeill death: Soldier aged 23 charged with murder

A 23-year-old serving soldier has been charged with murdering a corporal found dead at their barracks.

West Mercia Police said it had last night charged Richard Farrell with killing Cpl Geoffrey McNeill (pictured), of the 1st Battalion The Royal Irish Regiment, after his body was discovered in an accommodation block at Clive Barracks in Tern Hill in Shropshire, at about 9am on Saturday.

Farrell, who has been in custody at Shrewsbury police station since his arrest at the weekend, is expected to appear at Telford Magistrates' Court later, the force said.

An Army spokesman said: "We can confirm that a serving soldier has been charged with murder by West Mercia Police. It would be inappropriate to comment any further at this stage."

Cpl McNeill, of Ballymoney in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, was unmarried.

One of his three brothers, Jason McNeill, paid tribute to the soldier, saying he was deeply loved by his family and had "dedicated his life" to the regiment.

"He served his country with the highest degree of honour and dedication," he said.

"He was a much-loved son, brother, uncle and friend, and touched the lives of all who had the pleasure of meeting him.

"The family would like to give thanks for the continued support of the Army, police and all who knew and loved Geoff.

"Our love for him remains as strong as ever. Rest in peace, soldier. Faugh a Ballagh."

PA