CROWDS gathered at St Michael’s and All Angels Church Llantarnam on Saturday to pay tribute to Cwmbran war hero John Fielding.

A memorial service was held for Pte Fielding, who received the Victoria Cross for his service in the defence of Rorke’s Drift in South Africa.

Eleven Victoria Crosses were awarded to the defenders, one of which would be to John Fielding for the courage he showed in saving the wounded.

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He died in 1932, aged 75, and is buried at the church.

The Royal Regimental Band performed at the service, and standard bearers came from across south Wales.

The annual event was organised by the Cwmbran and District Ex-Service Association, led by secretary John Lynch.

Peter Colsey, of CADESA, said: "It was a good turnout. Luckily the rain held off until we were finished.

"Private Fielding's family came up from Hampshire and Colchester and Leamington Spa, as they do every year.

"It's something that we are going to continue to do for as long as we can.

"He was not just a local hero, but a national hero too."

Torfaen MP Nick Thomas-Symonds said: "It is now 141 years since John Fielding, who was known as Private 1395 John Williams, was awarded the Victoria Cross.

"Under 1,400 have been awarded since they were introduced in 1856, showing how rare they are. 

"John Fielding’s courage, bravery, and dedication to duty still strike a chord all these years later.

"These values are important in any age, to all generations.

"I was pleased to see so many people at the graveside paying their respects to him."

Cwmbran Community Council chairman Cllr Anthony Bird said: "I think the turnout at the memorial service really shows the level of respect embedded in the community that's felt for John Fielding, and I feel that its only right and proper that 141 years later we still pay tribute to a man who went above and beyond his duty to protect his friends and brothers in arms.

"CADESA and the local military community have done a sterling job in keeping alive the memory of the sacrifice that was made at Rorke's Drift and do great honour to a local hero."