Richard Sandford blue plaque

This blue commemorative plaque records: Lieutenant Richard Douglas Sandford VC, Royal Navy Was born near here. Awarded the VC for his actions in command of HM Submarine C.3 during the hazardous Zeebrugge Raid on the 22nd April 1918. He skilfully placed his vessel in between the piles of the viaduct before lighting the fuse and abandoning her, aware that if they were not rescued they would all be killed by the force of the explosion. Recorded plaque organisation: Submariners Association.

Lt Richard Sandford VC RN was a Royal Navy officer who distinguished himself during World War I by leading a daring operation in the Zeebrugge Raid, for which he received the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.