Bomb blast soldier 'improving'

A teenage soldier critically injured in a blast bomb attack in North Belfast has regained consciousness, it was revealed today.

The 18-year-old is now likely to be moved back to Wales in the near future to be closer to his family, his commanding officer said.

Lieutenant Colonel Mark Blagbrough said: ‘‘He is very much better.’’

The 18-year-old soldier is a member of the Royal Welch Fusiliers.

He was injured when loyalists clashed with police and troops in the Ardoyne and Glenbryn areas on Friday night.

Extra troops are on stand by because of fears of more trouble following fresh violence yesterday and last night during which over 20 RUC officers were hurt.

A number of blast bombs were also thrown on the Limestone Road and last night part of North Queen Street was blocked by burning vehicles. One man was also hurt in a blast bomb attack.