A 24-year-old British soldier who went to school in Sandbach - has died fighting alongside the Ukrainian forces against Russian invaders.

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

His father, Mr Dean Gatley took to social media yesterday (June 12), saying: "On Friday, we received the devastating news that our son, Jordan, has been shot and killed in the city of Severodonetsk, Ukraine.

"Jordan left the British Army in March this year to continue his career as a soldier in other areas.

Dean Gatley with his son Jordan (Photo: Dean Gatley).

"The war against Europe had begun so, after careful consideration, he went to the Ukraine to help.

"We have had several messages from his team out there telling us of his wealth of knowledge, his skills as a soldier and his love of his job.

"His team say they all loved him, as did we, and he made a massive difference to many people's lives, not only soldiering, but also by training the Ukrainian forces."

Father Dean Gatley lives on Home Farm Park, Church Minshull, near Crewe.

He added: "Jordan and his team were so proud of the work they were doing and he often told me that the missions they were going on were dangerous, but necessary.

"He loved his job and we are so proud of him. He truly was a hero and will forever be in our hearts."

An adviser to the Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky tweeted that Jordan was a "true hero".

Jordan studied at Sandbach School before leaving to attend Reaseheath College in Nantwich to study public services. 

24-year-old Jordan Gatley, was sadly shot and killed in Ukraine (Church Minshull Village Arena).

Today a friend from Jordan's Sandbach days has remembered him fondly and said he died doing what he loved.

Jade Condliffe said: "He died a hero. The Army was always his passion and he absolutely loved that.

"He was the life and soul of any party and was such a lovely, funny person. He would light up any room with his personality. He was great fun and a lovely person. It's devastating news."

Church Minshull Village Arena website posted today (June 13), saying: "We're incredibly saddened to hear of the death of 24-year-old Jordan Gatley who died while fighting in Ukraine.

"Jordan is the son of Dean Gatley who lives on Home Farm Park. Jordan also leaves behind mum, Sally, and brother, Adam, who both live in Sandbach.

"Jordan was an incredibly brave and highly trained soldier who felt it his duty to support Ukraine in their fight against Russia.

"We invite you all to pray for Jordan and his family and friends who are mourning the loss of a beloved hero."

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