Tributes have been pouring in for the British soldier from Sandbach who died fighting alongside the Ukrainian forces against Russian invaders.

Jordan Gatley, a former pupil of Sandbach School, was confirmed as a casualty in the on-going war by his family.

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

Headteacher Sarah Burns 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. 

Sandbach School headteacher, Sarah Burns

"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."  

The Royal British Legion's assistant director of welfare, Nicola Cook, who lives in Sandbach, said: "A tragic situation and my heart goes out to the family."