A West Yorkshire Territiorial Army battalion that has served in Afghanistan will be given the Freedom of the City of Bradford next week.

The Parachute Regiment, 4 Para, is to be given the honour in recognition of its battlefield achievements and connections to the city.

The leader of Bradford Council, Councillor Kris Hopkins, himself a former soldier, will propose the motion at the Council’s last full meeting of the year on December 15.

He said: “Officers and soldiers of 4 Para have recently returned from supporting operations in Afghanistan and the regiment as a whole is due to deploy there next autumn.

“I believe it would be fitting for it to march through Bradford and accept the freedom of the district on its return from that tour.”

Labour Group leader Councillor Ian Greenwood said: “The 4th Battalion has been served by a large number of Bradford residents throughout its existence and also has a close geographical link to the district.

“I therefore believe it appropriate that the Council gives proper recognition to the achievements of its members, past and present.”

Liberal Democrat leader, Councillor Jeanette Sunderland, said: “I am happy to support this extremely well-deserved award to the 4th Battalion, the Parachute Regiment.

“Its reputation as an elite force is recognised across the world; it would be an honour for the district to have a formal and permanent link.”

Lieutenant Colonel Alistair Rogers, commanding officer of the 4th Battalion, said: “4 Para has a strong historic connection with Bradford and continues to draw much of its strength from the city and surrounding areas.

“Many of the soldiers who have deployed on recent tours, or who will do so, live in or nearby the city.

“To receive the Freedom of Bradford will be a great honour.”