Paving stones to mark WW1 Victoria Cross winners

Blackburn with Darwen Council will receive three paving stones, to commemorate each recipients of the Victoria Cross within the borough during the First World War.

Stones will be placed in over 400 towns across the United Kingdom to commemorate those First World War soldiers who were awarded the Victoria Cross for valour in battle.

Three soldiers from Blackburn with Darwen area, William Henry Grimbaldeston, John Schofield and Percy Thompson Dean all received the Victoria Cross for service in World War One, and will each be commemorated by a paving stone during Centenary events.

Cllr Kate Hollern, Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council said: “This is a great opportunity for us to come together as a community, and remember those who lost their lives during the First World War.

“Each one of these commemorative paving stones will offer a permanent memorial to the three gentlemen who were awarded the highest military honour during what was one of the largest conflicts in history.”

Cllr Trevor Maxfield, Armed Forces and Veterans Champion said: “As we approach the centenary of the First World War, These commemorative paving stones offer a chance to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who fought, and will help ensure that this moment in our history is never forgotten.”

Blackburn with Darwen Council is calling on descendants of these three Victoria Cross recipients to get in touch, to be part of this fantastic memorial to their memory.

They can get in touch by ringing Mary Painter, on 01254 661221.