THE grieving mother of a soldier who died in a “friendly fire” tragedy in Afghanistan has refused to place blame on one person following reports a British soldier could be charged with manslaughter.

Private John Thrumble, 21, who grew up in Westcliff, and Privates Aaron McClure and Robert Foster, both 19, were killed last August in the war-torn country.

Pte Thrumble grew up in Westborough Road and attended Westborough Primary School.

All three soldiers, who were members of the Royal Anglian Regiment, died when they came under fire from an American F15 jet.

The Ministry of Defence has confirmed the investigation has concluded and the report could now be passed to the Independent Army Prosecuting Authority.

Military sources have told national newspapers a British air controller could be charged with manslaughter.

However, Pte Thrumble’s mum, Pearl, of Steeple Road, Mayland, near Maldon, said: “I don’t feel one person can or should be held responsible.

“I do think the procedures need to be reviewed as this should not have happened.

“The pilot dropped his bomb on the grid reference given to him, but someone should have known exactly where our boys were going to be.

“We – John’s family – knew where they were going because he called us before they set off.

“So with all the technology available, everyone involved should have known exactly where they were.

“We haven’t been told the full details of what happened, or whether anyone will definitely been charged, so we can’t get angry until we have all the facts.

“But we are angry for the loss of our fantastic son and feel very strongly this should never happen again.

“The pain of losing a son is indescribable.”

Pearl, husband Steve and son Luke plan to mark the first anniversary of Pte Thrumble’s death by releasing his ashes at the top of Ben Nevis.

They will be joined by friends, family and more than 15 members of the Royal Anglian Regiment.

A Ministry of Defence spokesman said: “The Royal Military Police Special Investigation Branch investigation into the deaths of three British soldiers, on Thursday, August 23, 2007, near Kajaki, Afghanistan, has concluded.

“The report has been passed to the chain of command for consideration.

“If the matter is referred to the independent Army Prosecuting Authority, the authority will consider what, if any, action is to be taken.”