The “proudest father on earth” will be among Army and police top brass paying tribute to Bradford hero Martin Bell – a year on from his death on the battlefield in Afghanistan.

Private Bell, a paratrooper and former police special constable, was killed in a blast while attempting to save the life of a pal on January 25, 2011.

To mark the tragic anniversary Sir Norman Bettison, Chief Constable of West Yorkshire Police, will unveil a commemorative stone at Worth Valley Police and Community Contact Point where Mr Bell, of Idle, was based as a PCSO.

About 200 people, including Mr Bell’s dad Simon, mum Elaine, his brothers Philip and Oliver, and about 40 paratroopers from his former platoon will witness the unveiling.

Senior district and parish councillors will pay their tributes to Pte Bell and Sam Corley, Cannon of Bradford Cathedral, will give a blessing.

Private Scott Meenagh, whose life Pte Bell saved just minutes before he was killed himself, will also attend the poignant ceremony.

Simon Bell, 53, said he was filled with pride at the “amazing legacy” his son has left behind.

He said: “It is an absolute honour that Martin has touched so many lives, not only in the Army but also in the police.

“Wonderful tributes are still coming through 12 months on. It really is an honour to walk this land as the proudest father there is.”

Before joining the army, “community-spirited” Martin had served with the police for three years.

During that time, he trained PCSO Helen Wynn-Evans, who has organised the commemoration on Wednesday with Bingley and Worth Valley Police Sergeant Chris Watson.

Elaine Bell said: “PCSO Wynn-Evans said Martin was so kind but, the first day she had to go out on her own after being trained, he sent her on a bogus trip – some sort of made-up dispute – and gave her a number to ring.

“When she rang it, it was her own phone. It broke the ice and made her less nervous. That is the sort of joker Martin was. He had a wonderful sense of humour.”

Pte Bell’s family were given the George Medal by the Duchess of Cornwall for his outstanding bravery.

The plaque will be unveiled in Changegate, Haworth, at 2pm on Wednesday.