The families of Trooper Fred Potts and Arthur Andrews were welcomed to the Liverpool art studio where the seven foot high bronze statue is beginning to take shape.

In 1915, under heavy gun fire and with a wounded leg, Potts dragged Andrews to safety from atop Scimitar Hill during the Gallipoli campaign using a shovel as a makeshift stretcher.

Members of the Trooper Potts VC Trust joined Anne Ames and Chris Andrews — the grandchildren of the men being immortalised in the memorial — at the special viewing.

Richard Bennett, chairman of the trust, said: “It was great to see after such a lot of work to get to this point but the main thing is that the families are content with the images.

“That was the real test, whether the grandchildren are happy with the image of their grandparents.

“The military detail is very good and I think the whole thing is great.

“We are definitely on track for the unveiling in October.”

Sculptor Tom Murphy proudly showed off the some of the finer details reflecting the town’s influence on its celebrated hero from the First World War.

A rock resembling a lion’s head and Huntley and Palmer biscuits have been included in the design in a nod to both men’s home town.

Last November, after years of campaigning and generous donations, the trust reached its target of £145,000 allowing the project to begin.

The unveiling is due to take place on October 4 in The Forbury to coincide with the hundredth anniversary of the announcement by King George V of Potts’ award.