At a special ceremony on Friday 4th July, a new Green Plaque from Leicestershire County Council was unveiled, honouring the life of Lieutenant Colonel Philip Bent. 

Representatives from Ashby School, sixth form, the Royal Tigers' Association and the Mayor of Ashby attended the ceremony, reflecting on the life and achievements of Lt Col Philip Eric Bent VC DSO (01/01/1891 - 01/10/1917). 

Revealling of the Philip Bent plaque at Ashby School (Photo: Cllr Domilola Ojuri)

Bent attended Ashby School when it was a Grammar School before leaving to join the Leicestershire Regiment in 1914. He has been recognised for his bravery and outstanding leadership in various battles during the First World War. In 1917, he was deployed to Flanders for Passchendaele, where all four battalions were engaged. On 1st October 1917, aged just 26, Bent was tragically killed whilst leading a charge. It is believed he led the charge by inspiring his fellow men with the call 'Come on The Tigers.' 

After his death, Bent was posthumously presented with the Victoria Cross for 'conspicuous bravery during the battle.' 

In order for the plaque to be awarded, key local people from across Leicestershire were nominated and voted on by the public. After six rounds, six chosen people and places were selected, including this special plaque to Lt Col Philip Bent VC DSO at Ashby School. 

Mayor of Ashby, Cllr Damilola Ojuri with the new Philip Bent green plaque (Photo: Cllr Damilola Ojuri)

Speaking about the ceremony, Councillor Damilola Ojuri, Mayor of Ashby, said: "This ceremony served as a tribute to honour the incredible sacrifice made by Philip and so many others like him for the freedoms we enjoy today. 

We hope this plaque will become a focal point of remembrance in Ashby and throughout Leicestershire, ensuring his legacy continues to inspire future generations."