A "TRUE hero" of the First World War has been honoured by the Archbishop of York and residents of the village where he was born.

Harry Blanshard Wood, who was born in Newton Upon Derwent, was awarded the Victoria Cross for his actions at Saint-Python, France, in October 1918.

He is said to have lain down behind a large brick and fired continuously at snipers to cover his men while they worked their way across a river, with complete disregard for his own safety.

On Saturday, 100 years to the day after he was awarded the Victoria Cross, a commemorative stone was unveiled in the village and a service was held in his honour.

Colin Wragg, speaking on behalf of Harry Blanshard Wood's great niece, said: "For his family, it's a great honour to be here today to honour a very brave man. The act of war brings out the best and worst in man, in circumstances many of us cannot imagine.

"In Harry it brought out the best qualities man can possess. He was a true hero.

"Harry's great-great-great nephew was born on June 21, also Harry's birthday. He is a permanent reminder of our very brave relative."

He was involved in fierce fighting in Saint-Python, France, in October 1918, and the mayor of the area travelled to Newton Upon Derwent to speak at the service.

He said: "It is a testament of our gratitude, we will never forget what Harry and his men did that day."

The Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu, attended the event where he invited children from the village to help him bless the stone memorial.

The town crier of East Riding of Yorkshire then led three cheers to the memory of Corporal Lance Sergeant Harry Blanshard Wood.

Margaret Horsley, from Newton Upon Derwent's local history group, previously told The Press that until recently, many people in the village were unaware of Harry’s existence. “In this special commemorative year to mark a hundred years since the end of the First World War, we felt it was time he was properly recognised,” she said.

“This permanent memorial will ensure his bravery on the battlefield will be remembered by future generations.”