Staffordshire road named after sapper who lost both his legs in Afghanistan
A town has paid tribute to a soldier, who lost both his legs in a roadside explosion in Afghanistan, by naming a street after him.
Sapper Clive Smith was guest of honour at the unveiling of the new road sign in Hednesford.
The street has been named Clive Smith Grove in recognition of the sacrifice of the war veteran from Cannock.
He was part of a Royal Engineer Search Team looking for IEDs in 2010 when the blast happened. The 28-year-old, a former Chase High School student, has since undergone rehabilitation at RAF Headley Court in Surrey. Councillor George Adamson, leader of Cannock Chase Council, who put the soldier's name forward for the distinction, called him 'a true hero.'
He said: "This will be a permanent feature to honour the commitment and dedication Sapper Smith has made for his country which will be remembered locally and around the district of Cannock Chase." Several members of the Cannock branch of the Royal British Legion attended the unveiling ceremony, off Eskrett Street in the town centre, bearing standards.
Sapper Smith has worked tirelessly for military charities during his recovery and is currently training hard for two sponsored bike rides.
He said: "It's a fantastic honour to have this street in my home town named after me. Since my injuries I've tried hard to give back to the military charities and help support the lads who have been less fortunate than myself. It's brilliant to have this recognition for the work I've been doing."
