The family of a Bradford-raised soldier who was awarded the Victoria Cross for bravery in the First World War are campaigning for him to be commemorated in the city he loved rather than in Leeds, the place of his birth.

Communities Secretary Eric Pickles announced specially-designed slabs will be placed at birthplaces across the UK to recognise all those who earned the highest medal for valour “in the face of the enemy” as part of plans to mark the next year's centenary of the outbreak of the 1914-18 conflict.

But the granddaughter of West Bowling soldier Corporal Samuel Meekosha said although he was born in Leeds he was a proud Bradfordian and would have wanted to be honoured in Bradford.

Pauline Hughes, 67, who lives in Swansea, said: “He was Bradford’s Victoria Cross holder. Bradford was very proud of him.

“He moved to Bradford as a baby and always considered that to be his home, even when he in later years moved to Wales.

“He was married in Bradford and it was there where they lined the streets as he and his bride left the church. His children were brought up there.

“Before he died, he asked for his ashes to be scattered at Ilkley Moor.

“I know it is Bradford where he would like to be honoured, although being a very modest man he would be shocked at any memorial at all.”

Corporal Meekosha won the highest military honour for saving the lives of soldiers on the front line in the First World War.

The father of three – who later changed his name by deed poll to Ingham to avoid the limelight – was a 22-year-old serving with the West Yorkshire Regiment when he earned the honour.

On November 19, 1915, his platoon of about 20 non-commissioned officers and men were heavily bombarded while in a trench. Six of the platoon were killed, seven were wounded and the rest were partly buried.

Once he realised senior officers were killed or wounded he took command and, despite shells falling around him, continued to dig out the wounded and buried. He is thought to have saved at least four lives.

He died aged 57 in December 1950 at his home in Blackwood, Montmouthshire, South Wales.

A Department for Communities and Local Government spokesman said it was up to local authorities to decide where stones were placed.

“People may move from town to town, so we would encourage local authorities to talk with one another if they feel that a town outside of the recipient’s birth place would be more appropriate.”