The school in Sandbach where the former British soldier who died fighting alongside the Ukrainian forces has flown its flag at half-mast today (Tuesday).

And a book of condolences will be opened tomorrow in Sandbach where people can leave their messages of sympathy.

Jordan Gatley, 24, is a former pupil of Sandbach School in Crewe Road where he attended before leaving to continue his studies at Reaseheath College in Nantwich.

Jordan Gatley

As a mark of respect, the school lowered its flag and floral tributes have begun to be left at the town's war memorial on The Cobbles.

A message left with a bouquet of roses said: "A true hero. RIP Jordan G. Our British soldier. Love from Sandbach."

A book "In Loving Memory – Jordan" will be available for local people to sign at Sandbach Town Hall from tomorrow.    

Today Sandbach School heaped praise on the former pupil who left the Army in March and went to help in Ukraine.

Sandbach School Headteacher, Sarah Burns, told Nub News yesterday: said: "Sandbach School was saddened to learn over the weekend that a former student, Jordan Gatley, had been killed fighting for the Ukrainian Armed Forces. 

"Jordan left Sandbach School in 2014. He was well liked and is remembered fondly by staff and his peers. Always happy and smiling, Jordan often spoke about his dream of joining the Army.   

"The entire Sandbach School community wish to extend their sincerest condolences to his family and close friends at this most difficult of times."  

Jordan had left the Army in March to continue his career as a soldier in other areas and had gone to the Ukraine to help.

His family released the news on Social Media that he had been shot and killed in the city of Severodonetsk, Ukraine.