Streets should no longer be named after local heroes because they might one day be found to be paedophiles, according to official guidance.

Councils have been told that places should not be named after individuals - including fallen soldiers - in case they are later linked to "inappropriate activities".

The move comes after hundreds of streets, footpaths and plaques named after Jimmy Savile had to be altered when the star was exposed as a child abuser.

The Local Government Association has defended the decision, arguing it would save taxpayers' money in the future.

But opponents, including a government minister, said it was wrong to prevent communities from honouring their heroes.

The new rules have been issued by Geoplace, the local government quango that oversees the official database of addresses used by councils and emergency services.