A war hero who lived in Saltash has been remembered 150 years after his death from consumption at the age of 39.

Dignitaries and local people gathered at the grave of  William Odgers VC at St Stephen’s Church for a ceremony hosted by Lt Cdr Barry Brooking RN (Rtd) on December 20. 

Later in the day at Ashtorre Rock, Barry gave a talk about William Odgers, his life and how he won his Victoria Cross in the Maori Wars over land rights in New Zealand.

William is one of only eight Cornishmen to have been awarded Britain’s highest military award for bravery in the face of the enemy.  

To complete the day, an evening of sea shanty singing took place at the Union Inn where William was the landlord after he retired from the Royal Navy. 

This was led by Dave Newman and included rousing renditions.

Barry said: “I am so pleased that the day went so well, particularly as I do not expect to be around for the 200th anniversary!”