A BLUE plaque has been unveiled at the home of a Widnes Victoria Cross hero.

The historic sign was erected at 6 Vine Street where Sergeant Thomas Mottershead was born.

A quiet ceremony was held on his birthday, January 17, to mark the bravery of this 27-year-old pilot who landed a plane after it became engulfed in enemy fire, saving the life of his observer.

Rona Collins, Tom’s niece represented Tom’s granddaughter Cynthia Williams who now lives in Queensland, Australia.

Richard Bamber from Runcorn family coach firm Anthony’s Travel sponsored the plaque and Flt Lt Gary Simon from 310 (Widnes) Air Cadet Squadron attended the event.

Campaigner Tony Miller, from Sandymoor, said: “We are in need of another £30,000 to meet the deadline for commissioning a sculptor in July.”

Air cadets will be making bucket collections at the Vikings v St Helens match on April 21.

Donations can also be made at mottersheadstatueappeal.co.uk.

Every penny collected goes direct to the appeal.

It is hoped the statue will be unveiled on April 1, 2018, the centenary of the day when the Royal Flying Corps and Royal Naval Air Service combined to form the Royal Air Force.