Hero soldier's grave rededicated

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The grave of a soldier and policeman who was awarded the Victoria Cross in World War I is to be rededicated on the 79th anniversary of his death.

It comes after West Yorkshire Pc Anthony Child highlighted the story of Sgt John Raynes' heroism while researching the war.

Mr Raynes was awarded the Victoria Cross for his actions at Fosse 7 de Bethune in France in October 1915.

His grave at Harehills cemetery, Leeds, will be rededicated on Thursday.

The Force Chaplain Rev Insp Andrew Earl will lead the special ceremony which will be attended by Mr Raynes' relatives and representatives from the West Yorkshire Royal Artillery Branch.

'Truly heroic'

Mr Raynes, originally from Sheffield, was serving as acting sergeant major for the A Battery when he went out under intense shell fire to help a wounded comrade. Despite being badly gassed, he gave his smoke helmet to the injured man.

The next day, he was injured when a house collapsed but still helped rescue others trapped in the rubble.

He was awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious honour for award for gallantry, for "conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty" and promoted to the rank of sergeant major.

He was discharged from the Army in December 1918 as a result of the injuries he suffered and returned to Leeds City Police.

His injuries from the war caused his health to deteriorate and he became paralysed. He died at the age of 42 at his home on Grange Crescent in Chapeltown on 13 November, 1929.

Pc Child said: "Sgt Raynes' deeds were truly heroic. It is only right that he is remembered and the restoration and rededication of his grave is the most fitting tribute we can pay to his memory."