Thomas Alfred Jones

Thomas Alfred Jones, VC, DCM, widely known as "Todger" Jones, was an English recipient of 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. Born in Runcorn, Cheshire, Jones served as a private in the British Army during the First World War, where his extraordinary actions on the battlefield earned him lasting renown.

On 26 October 1916, during the Battle of the Somme, Private Jones performed the actions that earned him the Victoria Cross. Operating under heavy fire, his courage and initiative led to the capture of a significant number of enemy soldiers. In addition to the Victoria Cross, he was later awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for his continued brave service during the conflict.

Following the war, Jones was highly celebrated in his hometown, where a statue stands in his honor at the Runcorn War Memorial. He continued to be recognized throughout his life, receiving coronation medals from both King George VI and Queen Elizabeth II as a qualified Victoria Cross recipient, alongside several campaign and service medals representing his dedicated military career.