Part of Bingley bypass will be renamed Sir Fred Hoyle Way in memory of the famous astronomer from the town, after decision-makers approved a councillor’s bid to bestow the honour.

Councillor John Pennington (Con, Bingley) said he was “absolutely delighted” with the decision, made by Shipley Area Committee tonight.

Coun Pennington suggested a section of the road, between Cottingley and Crossflatts, be named in memory of the acclaimed scientist, noted for his contribution to the theory of stellar nucleosynthesis and his controversial rejection of the Big Bang theory.

Also a science fiction author, Sir Fred, of Gilstead, was awarded an honorary degree from Bradford University in 1977. He died in 2001, aged 86.

Coun Pennington, who had a full-size mock-up road sign made in advance of the decision, said: “His impact on the world of science was quite tremendous and from very humble beginnings.

“He was self-taught and it goes to show it is possible for the youngsters of today to be successful. It is an inspirational story.”

After tonight’s meeting, Coun Pennington said the Council would now try to find Sir Fred’s descendants to get their approval.

The decision was supported unanimously.

He said the renaming of the road, which was supported by fellow Bingley ward Conser-vative Councillors Robin Owens and David Heseltine, would bring the story of Sir Fred to a wider audience and bring with it a sense of individuality.

He said: “People will learn about him when they wouldn’t necessarily have done otherwise – I’m absolutely delighted.

“An alternative suggestion for the name was Aire Valley Road.

“There are so many streets starting with the word Aire in Bradford. Let’s do something that is individual and interesting for visitors and people who live here. It gives a feel-good factor.”