By Anna Whittaker, Local Democracy Reporter
The mum of a soldier killed in Afghanistan said she felt ‘honoured’ her son’s memory will be kept alive by a new block of flats which have been named after him.
The new Kieron Hill Court was officially opened in Clifton on Wednesday (November 30).
The development of 36 flats has been named after the 20-year-old Clifton soldier who died in an explosion in Afghanistan in May 2009.
The one-bedroom apartments have been built on the site of the former Southchurch garages, off Hamilton Court.
Vicki Holmes, Kieron’s mum, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service the building was a “fitting tribute” for her son.
She said: “For any bereaved parents, it is important to keep their children’s memory alive.
“What better way than to see his name here. That’s important to me, I don’t ever want him to be forgotten.
“On Remembrance Sunday I drove up to see the building and it was the first time I had seen his name there. It was amazing, I had tears running down by face but a massive smile as well. I am so proud.
“To me, Kieron’s memory will always be alive because he is the first person I think about in the morning and the last thing at night. At home, his bedroom is still his bedroom.
“Now his memory will be alive to other people too. Clifton have done him proud.”
John Holmes, Kieron’s stepdad, added: “Now, Kieron’s legacy will go on even after we’ve gone.”
Kieron, a Lance Corporal with 2nd Battalion the Mercian Regiment (Worcesters and Foresters) , started as a cadet at age 13 and went on his first tour of Afghanistan three days after his 18th birthday.
He died on May 28 2009, following an explosion on an operation near Garmsir in Helmand province.
Kieron’s dad Daryl Mitchell was there for the opening of the building as well as local councillors and builders.
Daryl said: “It’s an honour that we’ve got Kieron on the front of this lovely complex.
“I was gobsmacked when I found out about the plans and very emotional.
“To see it developed with his name on the front was stunning, it takes your breath away when you see it.
“We’re very proud that a brave soldier that gave his life is being honoured and his name will live on forever.”
Portfolio Holder for housing and human resources Toby Neal from Nottingham City Council said: “There are very significant pressures on housing in the city.
“We have 8,000 households on the waiting list at the moment so every building seen through to completion is really important in providing accommodation.
“This building is one-bedroom flats, it is for a particular need and it is affordable housing.
“The tenants will be looking forward to calling somewhere a home rather than living in temporary accommodation or a hotel room.
“It’s a lovely gesture to be able to name the building after Kieron who was a local lad.
“It’s always nice to name something after someone local and for a serviceman who gave his life carrying out his duties.”
A dedication plaque to Kieron was also unveiled and a ribbon was cut to open the flats.
