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Sergeant Laurence Calvert, a former pupil of Cockburn School in Leeds, was one of 25 men from Yorkshire to be awarded the Victoria Cross during World War One.

The majority of VCs were awarded to commissioned officers, most of whom attended private schools. Calvert鈥檚 award was unusual as he was both a non-commissioned officer (NCO) and a former state school pupil.

On 15 November, The London Gazette stated that Laurence鈥檚 VC was awarded for: 鈥渕ost conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty in attack when the success of the operation was rendered doubtful owing to severe enfilade machine-gun fire. His valour and determination in capturing single-handed two machine guns and killing the crews thereof enabled the ultimate objective to be won. His personal gallantry inspired all ranks.鈥�

He died in 1964 but his name lives on in his son, grandson and great-grand son who are all called Laurence.

Location: Beeston, Leeds LS11 5TT
Image: VC Laurence Calvert, courtesy of Cockburn School, Beeston, Leeds
This story is told by the students of Cockburn School and the family of Laurence Calvert

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