A WAR hero from Saltcoats is set to be recognised in a special exhibition – 75 years on from his death.

And organisers North Ayrshire Council are hopeful the family of Kenneth Campbell will help make it a fitting celebration of his incredible life.

The Flying Officer was a Victoria Cross recipient in recognition of his bravery after a low-level torpedo attack on the German battle cruiser “Gneisenau” during World War II.

The mission cost Kenneth his life but his bravery saved the lives of thousands and played a key part in helping the Allies win the war.

Kenneth was a member of the RAF’s 22 (Torpedo Bomber) Squadron, who attacked the German ship in Brest Harbour on the morning of 6 April 1941.

All four of the team died but their heroic actions and ultimate sacrifice were not in vain, as the battleship was out of action for nearly nine months.

It is believed that had Campbell not crippled the “Gneisenau”, which had been planning to rendezvous with the “Bismarck” and “Prince Eugen” in the Atlantic, the consequences would have been disastrous.

Kenneth died two weeks short of his 24th birthday – but has never been forgotten. He was honoured by his hometown of Saltcoats in 2000 when a memorial plaque and bench were dedicated to him.

An exhibition to coincide with the 75th anniversary of his death is due to be held in the Heritage Centre and organisers are looking for any information that could be included.

Kenneth’s brother, James, was a well-known solicitor in Dockhead Street, and staff at the Heritage Centre are hoping that there may still be descendants of the family in the area.

Councillor Alan Hill, Cabinet Member for Connected Communities, said: “Kenneth was an extraordinary young man and I’m delighted we’re taking this opportunity to recognise him with this special exhibition.

“Every single one of us should be proud of what he did. The fact he was a local boy makes it really special and this exhibition will be incredibly poignant.

“If any of Kenneth’s family are able to help with additional information or memorabilia we’d be incredibly grateful.”

Please contact North Ayrshire Heritage Centre on 01294 464174 or naheritage@north-ayrshire.gov.uk.