A LIFE-sized statue of a First World War hero winner has been unveiled 100 years after he was awarded the Victoria Cross.

Private Alfred Wilkinson, from Leigh, was given the highest military honour for the bravery he showed in a daring mission across no man’s land at the Battle of Selle in Marou in northern France in October 1918.

The statue stands in the middle of Taylor Wimpey’s Pennington Wharf development.

As well as the statue, the council and Paul Sargent from Dignity Funerals in Leigh, arranged for Private Wilkinson’s grave to be refurbished.

An information board will also be put in place at Leigh Cemetery, where Private Wilkinson rests.

Paul said: “It was a beautiful event from start to finish which really exemplified Alfred’s spirit.

“Hearing his life story and hearing his deeds from a major, to hearing the children of St Thomas CE Primary School talking about how they helped me create a beautiful poppy as well as one for Wigan.

“Listening to The Last Post gave me an overwhelming sense of gratitude to Alfred and that of pride for all the sacrifices he made.

“It’s been a privilege working on this project and I’m really looking forward to installing the poppies and the information board about Alfred’s life.”

Alfred’s granddaughter Jackie Lowe unveiled the statue as well as his nephew Phil Wilkinson.