AN Army reservist who died 10 days after falling ill during an SAS selection in the Brecon Beacons had an 'infectious enthusiasm for life'.

The family of Corporal James Dunsby issued a tribute to the 31-year-old after his death was confirmed by the Ministry of Defence.

Corporal Dunsby, a member of The Royal Yeomanry, had been in a critical condition in hospital since falling ill during the SAS selection exercise on July 13.

Lance Corporal Craig Roberts, who was 24, and from Conwy, North Wales died on Pen y Fan during the exercise on one of the hottest days of the year when temperatures reached 86ºF. Edward John Maher, who was also 31, died later the same day in hospital.

All three were Army reservists and at least two other soldiers were also taken ill during the exercise.

Corporal Dunsby's family said: "James had the most infectious enthusiasm for life. He was the most loving and dependable husband, not to mention the most handsome of men of whom could not be more cherished. James was and will remain a dearly loved, son, brother and husband.

"James adored the Army and believed so passionately in his duty as a protector of Queen and country and of the realm. James was so dearly loved by so many and will be sorely missed."

The deaths are being investigated by Dyfed Powys Police and the Health and Safety Executive while Defence secretary Philip Hammond has also announced a full service inquiry.

Powys coroner Louise Hunt has said her investigation into the deaths would be covered by article two of the Human Rights Act, which guarantees the right to life.

Postmortems on Lance Corporal Roberts and Mr Maher said the medical cause of their deaths could not be ascertained, further tests will be conducted.