KIRKLEES Conservatives are calling for a “Heroes Welcome” initiative.
They want the council and local businesses to back the idea, following the signing of the Community Covenant by Kirklees in June 2012.
The initiative has already been adopted by more than 60 councils across the country and shows support for British Armed Forces personnel in practical ways.
This ranges from a warm welcome to a service upgrade, special acknowledgement or even a small discount on council or business services.
No major authority in West Yorkshire has yet signed up to the initiative.
Kirklees agreed to sign the Community Covenant after it was proposed by Conservative former Mayor, Andrew Palfreeman, who raised £45,000 for Combat Stress during his Mayoral year.
At present the council 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.
Two members of the Conservative group have children currently serving in the armed forces, both of whom have seen active service.
Clr Jim Dodds is a retired Army Major who still campaigns on behalf of his former colleagues from all the services.
Mirfield councillor Martyn Bolt, who has friends in the services and has supported military charities through his charity 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. I have seen the scheme operate in Scarborough and other areas where local businesses are happy to offer a discount to those who are prepared to make the sort of sacrifice we could never imagine.”
