Brit hero, 22, killed by Russian troops in Ukraine after fighting alongside volunteers as family pay tribute to son

A BRITISH soldier has tragically been killed by Russian troops while fighting out in Ukraine.

Hero Callum Tindal-Draper, 22, volunteered to battle against Vladimir Putin's army after the tyrant invaded almost three years ago - as his family pay tribute to their "brave" son.

Callum had been fighting alongside volunteer troops from the 4th International Legion in Ukraine when he was killed in action on November 5.

His family were told he was defending an observation point when it was targeted by Russian soldiers.

Callum - a former hospital worker from Cornwall - was described by his fellow military unit as an inspiration to them all.

His mum Caroline even said the battalion sent back video messages and handwritten letters to the family after his death as they said Callum was like a "little brother".

The heartbroken mum said: "When we found out he'd died, there was just this hole which I can't describe and it's always going to be there.

"But to know that they are saying he inspired them and they called him their little brother because he was the youngest one out there, they really were a family unit, and that is helping heal us and helping us get by.

"Already that hole I thought could not be mended is being filled with overwhelming love from his family out there and it means so much."

Callum's dad Steven also revealed the family all begged the Cornwall lad not to go to the frontlines.

He said: "We begged and begged and begged him not to go.

"But Callum said 'dad, I'm not frightened of bullies and what's going on in Ukraine is awful and someone needs to stand up for these people'."