CROWDS turned out on Sunday to pay tribute to a Widnes First World War hero.

A parade and service was held at Victoria Park as a commemorative paving stone was unveiled to mark 100 years since the act of bravery for which Sergeant Thomas Mottershead was awarded the Victoria Cross.

The courageous 24-year-old pilot landed his plane after it became engulfed in flames from enemy fire, saving the life of his observer in the process.

Members of his family took part in the ceremony with the Lord Lieutenant and High Sheriff of Cheshire, Halton’s Mayor and Mayoress, council leader Cllr Rob Polhill, Halton MP Derek Twigg, RAF Group Captain Rog Simon, the Irish Guards and Knights Singers choir, civic dignitaries and community groups.

Children waved Union Flags.

Organised by the Royal British Legion, the Royal Artillery Association and Halton Council, the event included representatives from 310 Air Cadet Squadron, the 146 Air Cadet Squadron Band, senior military personnel from both squadrons and the region, 14 Standards from the north west and Widnes Army Cadets.

The ceremony was led by Mike McNicholas of the Royal British Legion and celebrant Clare Liptrot.

Thomas Mottershead’s niece, Rona Collins, gave the eulogy and David Mottershead read out a letter from Thomas’ granddaughter, Cynthia Williams who lives in Australia.

Kathy Filkins from the Royal British Legion read a poem in tribute.

Cllr Rob Polhill said: “We are very proud to commemorate Sgt Mottershead in this way and it was good to see so many people turn out to honour him.

“There were so many people from our area who gave their lives and the sacrifices they made are still felt today so it is right that we always remember them.”

Widnes Veterans and North West Veterans Association attended the event.

Founder ex-squaddie Billy Jones, of Morval Crescent, Runcorn, said: “We were very proud to have our standard on show, honouring one of our brothers.

“We were humbled by the public turn out, the family’s response and the support from all the military organisations and the public.

“We are now looking forward to the unveiling of the statue of Sgt Mottershead next year.”

A contingent from Widnes Royal British Legion travelled to France to visit the grave of Sergeant Thomas Mottershead in Bailleul.

A service was held at his graveside and a wreath laid in his memory at the Menin gate during the Last Post ceremony.