A PERMANENT memorial has been unveiled outside a Glasgow landmark to a hero of the First World War.

Private Henry May, from Bridgeton, braved a "hail of lead" to rescue two soldiers during a battle in France in 1914.

The reservist with the Cameronians (Scottish Rifles) later said: "I just did what any man in the regiment would have done to bring in a wounded man."

He received a hero's welcome on his arrival home at Central Station when he was carried aloft by wellwishers.

King George presented him with the Victoria Cross - the highest award for gallantry a British or Commonwealth serviceman can receive.

In his memory, a paving stone has been laid outside the People's Palace which chronicles the lives of Glasgow residents.

Joining Deputy Lord Provost Gerry Leonard at the unveiling ceremony were Mr May's grandson and great-granddaughter James and Jennifer McInnes as well as his 10-month-old great-great-grandson Fraser Brown.

A number of recently discovered relatives, including Eileen Brown, who was another of his grand- children, were also at the ceremony.

After the war Mr May resumed his life in Bridgeton with his wife and children.

His actions are remembered in a series of granite paving slabs at Bridgeton Cross which are inset with the names of local VC holders.

Mr Leonard said: "Henry May is more than a local hero. He ranks among the very few men in the First World War who survived while carrying out the ultimate act of valour, risking his life to save the lives of comrades.

Jennifer McInnes said: "We are very proud of my great-grandfather Henry May's amazing courage and valour during the First World War.

"I hope his story will inspire other Glaswegians both at home and abroad to delve into their own family's war history.

"It's wonderful the centenary of the start of the First World War has sparked so much interest in the stories of veterans and ordinary people."