Heroic Bradford soldier Private Martin Bell, who was killed trying to save a friend in Afghanistan, could soon have a lasting memorial created in his home town.

A decision will be made by councillors next week on whether a new street in a housing development in Wrose , Shipley , should be named after Private Bell.

In January 2011, Private Bell, of the 2nd Battalion Parachute Regiment, was killed by a bomb as he went to the rescue of a fellow soldier who had been injured by a similar explosive device in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.

He was awarded a posthumous George Medal for his selfless action which saved the life of his comrade.

The 24-year-old former Salt Grammar School pupil and Worth Valley Police Community Support Officer had joined the army in 2009.

Developer Keepmoat Homes is building a housing development off Leeds Road and Woodend Crescent, Shipley. Worth Valley Councillor Glen Miller is proposing that one of the streets be named Martin Bell Walk in honour of the war hero. This follows consultation with the soldier’s parents, Simon and Elaine Bell, and with the support of the developer.

The proposal is also supported by Windhill and Wrose ward councillors Vanda Greenwood, Alex Ross-Shaw and Susan Hinchcliffe.

Coun Miller, leader of the Conservative group and a former soldier himself, said: “Martin disobeyed an order to save the life of a comrade which he successfully did but lost his own life in as a direct consequence of that brave act.

“Further to agreeing that a street be named after him, his parents expressed a wish that it be as close to his former home as possible and this new development presents the best and closest opportunity to fulfil their wishes.

Coun Hinchcliffe said: “The bravery, selflessness and sacrifice made by Private Bell was outstanding and we are honoured to have a road in Windhill and Wrose named after him.

“Shipley is very proud of Private Bell and naming a new road after him will ensure that his memory lives on.”

Councillors on the Shipley Area Committee will decide on Wednesday, September 19, whether to go ahead with naming the street in Private Bell’s honour. Otherwise, the street will be called West Royd Gate.