A Heroes’ Welcome

The initiative has already been adopted by over 60 councils and shows support for British Armed Forces Personnel indicating a warm welcome, a service upgrade, special acknowledgement or even a small discount.

If Kirklees adopts it, it will be the first major authority in West Yorkshire to do so.

In June this year the council signed up to the Community Covenant after it was proposed by former mayor, Andrew Palfreeman, (Cons, Birstall and Birkenshaw) who raised £45,000 for Combat Stress during his Mayoral year.

The council currently has a small working group which is bidding for funds from the Ministry of Defence and developing an action plan to help local service personnel. The Conservatives believe that the Heroes Welcome Scheme is a perfect way to add value to the Community Covenant.

In addition to Coun Palfreeman’s charity appeal, the Armed Forces are close to the Conservative Group.

Two members have children currently serving, both of whom have seen active service, and Coun Jim Dodds is a retired Army Major.

Mirfield councillor, Martyn Bolt, who has supported military charities through his cycle rides, said: “This is an ideal way for individuals to show their support for our military friends. By displaying the logo they will show that there will be a good welcome and, I hope, a little discount. The recent support for our local military personnel has been overwhelming.”