THE PETROL tank of his plane pierced, Sgt Thomas Mottershead, enveloped in flames and torturous burns, skilfully landed his plane away from enemy fire, saving his flying companion.

Lieutenant Thomas Wilkinson, knowing his damaged vessel was sinking, attacked a Japanese convoy, ordered his crew to safety and went down with his ship.

Thomas 'Todger' Jones, hit with a bullet through his helmet and coat, returned fire and killed his assailant before shooting two more snipers and single-handedly disarmed 102 enemy fighters.

The bravery of these Halton war heroes, who each received the Victoria Cross, was honoured at a ceremony on Sunday.

Monuments commemorating their courage were unveiled at Victoria Park, in Widnes, and at Halton British Legion, thanks to £2,500 raised by veterans.

"I don't know of any other event round the country like this to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the inception of the VC," master of ceremonies Bill Sergeant told crowds.

"If the stone does nothing else but inspire people in the future to ask questions, we have achieved what we wanted."

The idea started five months ago when veterans discussed publishing a series of books, entitled Liverpool Heroes, commemorating VC recipients.

Halton MP Derek Twigg joined the Mayor of Halton, Cllr John Swain and historian Bob Martindale to read citations recording how Halton's heroes earned their VCs.

Jim Ross, of Hale British Legion, said: "It was brilliant. There were 12 standards.

"As the bugler played the Last Post, there were tears in his eyes.

"He'd just come back from Afghanistan where his friend had died."

Bob Dunn, president of Halton British Legion, said: "I've never seen stones of that calibre. Stonemason Dave Jones has put in so much effort, it's unbelievable.

"I would like to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart who have worked so hard to make this possible.

"We wouldn't be here today if these men hadn't put their feet forward first. I feel so proud that we can now give them something back."

bjordan@worldgroup.co.uk