A DECORATED soldier has been forgotten by the people of Colchester, a military charity has warned.

Edmund Fowler was presented with the Victoria Cross in 1879.

He was awarded the top decoration for valour for displaying extraordinary bravery during the Zulu War in 1879. He died in 1926 and was buried in Colchester Cemetery.

The Victoria Cross Trust tried to get the people of Colchester to stump up £1,500 to pay to refurbish Pte Fowler’s dilapidated grave, but after more than six months, just £85 has been raised.

Ray Heathfield, of the Victoria Cross Trust, said: “Pte Fowler’s grave, although restored probably 20 years ago, is now unfit for a hero.

“We use that word quite often, but Victoria Cross holders must surely be considered real heroes.

“[There is nothing in the town to commemorate him] and he appears to have been forgotten.”

He added: “I find this quite disappointing for a Garrison town, where we have so much pride in our armed forces.”

Mr Heathfield is now launching a campaign and is asking volunteers to come forward.

To help, go to victoriacrosstrust.org and follow the “appeals” link.