A HEROIC Bradford paratrooper who was killed in Afghanistan will be one of many absent loved ones remembered this Christmas by a special golden star hung on the City Hall festive tree.

Family friend Jean Jones has taken part in the Telegraph & Argus Christmas Star Appeal every year since Private Martin Bell was killed in 2011.

Mrs Jones, of Sandy Lane, who is best friends with his mother Elaine Bell, said: "I've known Martin since the day he was born, and every year since his death I've arranged for a star to be hung with his name on.

"I do it because it's my way of saying Happy Christmas to him and a great way of remembering him at Christmas.

"I also ask that the star is sent to his mum Elaine after the ceremony so she can keep it."

Pte Bell was killed in January 2011 by a bomb as he went to rescue a fellow soldier who had been injured by a similar explosive device in Helmand province.

The 24-year-old former Salt Grammar School pupil, who had joined the Army in 2009, was posthumously awarded a George Medal for his selfless action which saved the life of his wounded comrade.

A street in Wrose, Shipley, was named after him earlier this year.

Dozens of stars in total are expected to be hung on the towering tree in City Hall by Bradfordians wishing to remember absent loved ones or to celebrate those people who have made a difference throughout the year. So far more than 20 nominations have been made.

In total there were 200 stars hung from last year's tree, while this year’s nominations will be unveiled at a special Christmas Star Appeal event, being held at City Hall, on Thursday, December 3.

It will be hosted by the Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Joanne Dodds, who will be hanging her own star in memory of her dad Peter Hobson, who died in 2010.

Proceeds from the Christmas stars will go towards the Lord Mayor’s Appeal, which this year is supporting Bradford Hospitals Children’s Charity and her Spread a Smile scheme offering grants to organisations and smaller groups across the Bradford district.

In order to nominate a loved one for a star, fill in the coupon printed in the T&A and send a cheque or postal order for £5, to The Lord Mayor’s Appeal to: Christmas Star, Lord Mayor’s Appeal. City Hall, Bradford, BD1 1HY.

Or call 01274 434965 Monday to Thursday, from 9am to 1pm, to pay by credit or debit card.

The closing date for nominations is Friday, November 27.

Everyone who makes a nomination will then be invited to the Banqueting Suite at City Hall on Thursday, December 3, for a tea or coffee and a mince pie with the Lord Mayor to hang the Christmas Stars on the City Hall tree.

A list of all nominated Christmas Stars will be published in the T&A following the ceremony.