THE memory of Sapper Jordan Rossi, the first Bradford soldier killed in Afghanistan, will be honoured with a new road named in his memory to the delight of his proud mother.

Sapper Rossi, of Baildon, was 22 when he died in a bomb blast five years ago while clearing mines in Helmand Province.

Bradford councillors have now agreed to name the planned route around the new business site "Sapper Jordan Rossi Park"

Councillor Debbie Davies had the idea after meeting the soldier's mother Theresa shortly after his death and suggested the access road to the Buck Lane development site.

It enters the business park from Otley Road and will then loop its way around industrial units.

Cllr Davies, presenting the idea to Shipley Area Committee on Thursday night, said: “His family still live in Baildon and fully support his memory being honoured by naming a street after him.”

The committee voted unanimously in favour of the idea and after the meeting Cllr Davies said Sapper Rossi's mother was "absolutely delighted".

"I spoke to her on the phone and she was rather overwhelmed emotionally, but thanked everyone and said it was an amazing thing to happen."

Shipley Area Committee chairman David Heseltine added: "The naming of the road after Sapper Rossi is testament to the commitment and ultimate sacrifice made by this brave young man for his country."