THE only Dalesman to win a VC during the First World War was honoured in his home village yesterday yesterday.

Heavy rain meant the planned commemoration for Arthur Poulter was slightly altered and a march to East Witton church abandoned.

A stone marking Pte Poulter’s courage was to be formally unveiled at the village war memorial, but due to the rain a pose for photographs sufficed.

Guests then retired to the Parish Rooms to see a display of photographs and newspaper cuttings. They all received a special bottle of beer from Timothy Taylors where Pte Poulter, who died in 1956, worked before his army service.

His grandson John Harrison said: "We all appreciate the effort that has gone into today, which has been a truly splendid occasion.”