WREATHS were laid on the submarine gun in the centre of Chepstow in honour of local war hero William Williams.

Able Seaman Williams was awarded the Victoria Cross for his courage during the Gallipoli landings in Turkey during the First World War.

Every year on April 25 – Anzac Day – a ceremony takes place at the gun captured from the German submarine U-91 and presented to the town by King George V to honour William's supreme sacrifice.

The ceremony is organised by the Chepstow branch of the Royal Naval Association and was attended by the hero's niece, Carol Dutson and great-nieces Sharon Putwain and Sandra Boshein, who live in the area.

Wreaths were also laid by the deputy mayor of Chepstow Councillor Yvonne Havard and the Chepstow branch of the Royal British Legion.

Commander Chris Wilson of the Royal Naval Association said: "Chepstow can be justifiably proud of William Willliams."

William, who was serving on the SS River Clyde, was killed as he stood chest deep in water helping soldiers disembark in the assault on the Turkish peninsula.

He was later described by one of his officers as "the bravest sailor I ever knew."