A memorial service has been held at St Hildeburgh's Church, Hoylake, to honour the memory of Sgt John O'Neill, awarded the Victoria Cross during the First World War and buried in Holy Trinity cemetery in the town.

His grave was discovered during a churchyard tidyup by the cadets of 472 (Hoylake) Air Training Corps last year. Further information revealed that although Mr O'Neill died in 1942 while serving with the Pioneer Corps, he was actually serving in the Prince of Wales Leinster Regiment (Royal Canadians) when his remarkable courage earned him the highest bravery award possible.

A plaque has now been laid on the grave acknowledging his service with the Leinsters and was unveiled by members of his family, travelling from his home town in Scotland and from as far as Canada. A guard of honour was provided at the graveside by cadets of 472 ATC led by Sgt Roberts, with bugles and bagpipes from the London Irish Rifles.