Minefield rescue war hero Les Belcher dies aged 97

The great-grandfather was awarded the Military Medal for Bravery in the Field for his selfless efforts during the war. Mr Belcher, of Hay Street, was a well-known figure in the area, having toured primary schools giving talks about his wartime experiences.

He trained as a gunner and radio operator and was deployed to Egypt, Syria and Italy.

He survived a battle in El Alamein, where thousands of men died, as well as the battle of Montecassino in Italy, where the estimated casualties on both sides were 45,000. He also recovered after contracting jaundice while serving in Tripoli.

On October 11, 1944, the gunner heroically distinguished himself when he and his fellow troops strayed into a minefield while in Montecodruzzo, in northern Italy.

Despite being shaken, he crossed the minefield three times, carrying his injured comrades to safety, not even leaving behind their horses and mules.

For this he was awarded the Military Medal.

Before and after the war, Mr Belcher worked as a kiln burner at Rosemary Tileries in Cheslyn Hay for a total of 50 years.

He had two children, Mike and Lynne, as well as three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. His son Mike said: "I'm very proud of him for being so brave."

Trevor McFarlane, chairman of Cheslyn Hay History Society, knew Mr Belcher for around 20 years.

Mr McFarlane said: "He gained a tremendous record in the army. It was incredible what he did. Everybody in Cheslyn Hay knew him.

"He was always about – he was active right up until the end. The history society does talks in schools, and up until about 10 years ago, Les used to come round with us and give talks on his war experiences.

"I know Les will very much be in the lasting memories of people. He certainly left a lasting impression."

Mr Belcher died peacefully at his home in mid December.