Following a Council Motion by Councillor Bernard Peters at a full Council Meeting in June, Members unanimously agreed to recognise the outstanding achievements of William Harold Coltman VC and create a lasting tribute to his name by renaming the Blantyre Room at Burton Town Hall.
The Blantyre Room at Burton Town Hall has now been renamed to the Coltman VC Room.
Burton on Trent Town Hall (Photo credit: InBurton)
Gary Stapleton, Chairman of the Victoria Cross Trust, said: “Given William Coltman VC is the First World War’s most decorated enlisted man, it’s truly fitting that he should be remembered at every opportunity. It’s surprisingly uncommon for a Council to honour those who have been awarded the Victoria Cross and I would like to thank the people of Burton upon Trent and members of East Staffordshire Borough Council for recognising his valour.”
William Harold Coltman VC of Burton upon Trent served with distinction as a stretcher bearer in the North Staffordshire Regiment and was awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest award for gallantry that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth Forces for his valorous efforts in the First World War.
William Coltman VC is the most decorated non commissioned officer from the First World War and was invested with his Victoria Cross by King George V at Buckingham Palace on 22nd May 1919.
William Coltman VC died on 29th June 1974 and was buried at St Mark’s Church in Winshill. His grave is maintained by the Victoria Cross Trust.
Councillor Bernard Peters, Deputy Leader for Service Commissioning, said: “As an Elected Member for East Staffordshire Borough Council I strongly believe that the efforts of people who served for this Country should be recognised.
“It is clear that William Harold Coltman VC showed outstanding gallantry and valour in his contributions to the efforts of the allied forces during the First World War. I’m delighted that there is now a lasting tribute at Burton Town Hall in the Coltman VC room.”
