Road named after soldier who died in Afghanistan

A road named after a British soldier who was killed while on duty in Afghanistan in 2011 has been officially opened.

A ceremony was held at Tom Lake Way in South Oxhey near Watford, in honour of 29-year-old Pte Tom Lake from the 1st Battalion, the Princess of Wales Regiment.

His mother attended along with military personnel and local dignitaries.

After unveiling the road sign that bears her son’s name, Carol Lake said: "I am extremely proud of Tom. It’s been a wonderful day and it’s brought everyone together."

Pte Lake joined the Army in 2009. He was on patrol in central Helmand in November 2011 when he was killed by an improvised explosive device.

The ceremony was organised by the manager of Pte Lake's local football team, Oxhey Jets FC, alongside the parish council.

His former coach and manager, John Elliott, BEM, said: "We've tried to keep Tom's memory alive ever since the unfortunate incident."

Mr Elliott added he hoped it would serve as a permanent reminder of Pte Lake’s life for the people of South Oxhey and beyond.

"I'd like to think that this, as sad as the reason is, means a lot to people to see a Jets player honoured on a road name. It means a lot to me, I must admit," he said.

Tom Lake Way sits in the new South Oxhey Central development by Carpenders Park Overground.

The clerk of the Watford Rural Parish Council, Gareth Williams, was tasked with naming the new roads.

"I came across Pte Tom Lake’s name, and obviously, he was a prime candidate, which was then put to the council.

"They nominated that through to the district council, who then gave the actual nod," said Mr Williams.

Also in attendance were a group of Pte Lake’s school friends, who went to St Joan of Arc School in Rickmansworth. They all met for the first time at a year 7 induction, 30 years ago this month.

Gregg McCann said: "He probably wouldn't have enjoyed the fuss about him, though he would have been right in the middle of it with his smiling face.

"Tom was one of those people who managed to bring a little bit of sunshine to even the gloomiest of days.

"And I think it's testament to him that all these people are here today."

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