Brighouse war hero awarded Victoria Cross given lasting memorial

A commemorative paving stone has been unveiled in Brighouse in honour of a World War One soldier who was awarded a Victoria Cross.
Honour to Brighouse's Colonel J. Forbes-RobertsonHonour to Brighouse's Colonel J. Forbes-Robertson
Honour to Brighouse's Colonel J. Forbes-Robertson

Colonel J. Forbes-Robertson, who was born at Slead Hall in the town on July 7, 1884 received a Victoria Cross for his action in the First World War whilst in command of the 1st Battalion Border Regiment during the Battle of the Lys on April 11 and 12, 1918 in France.

Calderdale Council and Colonel J. Forbes-Robertson’s family organised the unveiling event as part of a national initiative providing commemorative paving stones at the birth place of each recipient of the Victoria Cross, to commemorate the centenary of the First World War.

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The stones are being laid as close as possible to the 100th anniversary of the date of the action for which the Victoria Cross was awarded.

The Mayor of Calderdale, Councillor Ferman Ali, said: “It was a great privilege to be part of this event. Colonel Forbes-Robertson was clearly a remarkable man and now there will be a lasting legacy in his hometown.

“The commemorative stone will give local people the chance to honour his bravery, and that of others in the Armed Forces.”

The stone was unveiled at Rydings Park in Brighouse, near the war memorial. This coincided with the anniversary of Colonel Forbes-Robertson’s action.

Other attendees included representatives from The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment.