Flats named after soldier killed in Afghanistan

Image source, LDRS

A锘 block of flats in Nottingham has been named after a local soldier who was killed in an explosion in Afghanistan.

Kieron Hill Court was officially opened in his home town of Clifton on Wednesday.

The聽20-year-old died while on patrol near Garmsir in Helmand province in May 2009.

His mother Vicki Holmes said the development was a fitting tribute to her son.

The one-bedroom apartments have been built on the site of the former Southchurch garages, off Hamilton Court.

Speaking to the Local Democracy Reporting Service Ms Holmes said: "For any bereaved parents, it is important to keep their children鈥檚 memory alive.

鈥淲hat better way than to see his name here.

"That鈥檚 important to me. I don鈥檛 ever want him to be forgotten."

'A brave soldier'

Ms Holmes said she saw her son's name on the building for the first time on Remembrance Sunday.

"I had tears running down my face but a massive smile as well. I am so proud."

Kieron was a Lance Corporal with聽2nd Battalion the Mercian Regiment.

His father Daryl Mitchell said it was an honour to have the housing complex named after him.

鈥淚t takes your breath away when you see it.

鈥淲e鈥檙e very proud that a brave soldier that gave his life is being honoured and his name will live on forever," he said.

Nottingham City Council said Kieron Hill Court would help to ease the "very significant pressures" on housing in the city.

Councillor Toby Neal said: "We have 8,000 households on the waiting list.

鈥淭his building is for a particular need and it is affordable housing.

鈥淚t鈥檚 a lovely gesture to be able to name the building after Kieron who was a local lad."

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