A FIRST World War hero is set to be honoured at a special ceremony, almost 100 years after being awarded the nation’s highest military award - the Victoria Cross.

Worthing’s Montague Moore, known as Monty, led a daring attack during the Battle of the Menin Road Ridge in Ypres, Belgium, during September 1917.

After much of his force had been killed or wounded, Moore, led a force of just six people in capturing a German stronghold. He then held it for 36 hours under continuous shelling before leading his men to safety.

For dashing gallantry and cool determination he was awarded the Victoria Cross by King George V at Buckingham Palace.

One hundred years later, a commemorative stone will be unveiled at his birthplace of 13 Montague Place, Worthing, on Sunday at 11am.

The service, which will be led by Worthing Borough Council, will see members of Moore’s family carry out the unveiling.

Councillor Tom Wye, Worthing Borough Council’s armed forces champion, said: “Worthing has a long and proud tradition of honouring it’s servicemen and women so I’m delighted that we, as a town, can commemorate one of our true heroes in this way.

“Monty Moore’s story of determination, bravery and courage is one we can all learn from. I hope that laying this paving stone will ensure his remarkable story lives on.

“It is a fitting way of remembering not only one of the very bravest of men who fought in the Great War, but also the millions of people who sacrificed their lives for future generations in the conflict.”

Born on October 9 1896 in Worthing, Moore was commissioned as a second lieutenant in The Hampshire Regiment on August 16 1916.

On September 20, 1917, the 15th Hampshire took part in a large scale attack in the Ypres Salient. Within hours the assault had run into trouble. Moore then kicked into action.

Moore died on September 9, 1966.

His medals are part of the Ashcroft Collection on display at the Imperial War Museum.

As part of the UK Government’s First World War Centenary campaign, councils are being presented with a commemorative stone for the locations where First World War Victoria Cross recipients were born. Moore’s stone is one of 469 which will have been put in place in communities across the UK by the end of next year.

It is hoped that the stones will provide an enduring legacy of heroes and enable residents to gain a greater understanding of the impact the war had on their community.