A memorial stone honouring a Blackheath-born war hero was unveiled last Monday.

Major General Clifford Coffin won the Victoria Cross one hundred years ago during the First World War.

He was born in Blackheath and was the son of Sir Isaac Campbell Coffin.

He was awarded the VC after he showed great bravery on July 31, 1917 in Westhoek, Belgium.

During an onslaught from the enemy, Major General Clifford Coffin’s men were trying to establish a shell-hole line, and were sheltering in shell-holes.

Major General Clifford Coffin made an inspection of his front posts during heavy machine gun fire, despite being in full view of the enemy.

He walked quietly between the shell-holes and gave advice to the men. His gallantry influenced all the ranks and the shell-hole line was held.

The unveiling of the memorial stone was attended by MPs Heidi Alexander and Vicky Foxcroft as well as councillors Kevin Bonavia and Alan Hall.