A memorial stone has been unveiled in Potters Bar to honour the victims of a V2 rocket that struck the town during the Second World War.

The Mayor of Hertsmere formally unveiled the stone on January 31 at the Prisoner of War Garden in Mutton Lane Cemetery, alongside Michael Moody, who initiated the project.

On January 20, 1945, a V2 rocket - a ballistic missile used by Germany during the conflict - hit Potters Bar, killing 21 people and injuring 27.

Michael's mother was among those who died, and he told the BBC that he came up with the idea for the memorial while visiting her grave on the 75th anniversary of her death.

"I go to Potters Bar and lay flowers on her grave every year, but this anniversary was particularly poignant," he said.

Welwyn Hatfield Times: 21 people were killed by the V2 strike.21 people were killed by the V2 strike. (Image: Hertsmere Borough Council)

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"I went past a small garden of remembrance and saw a stone commemorating prisoners of war. It occurred to me that there should be a stone to mark those who died in this rocket attack."

The V-2 rockets, which travelled at supersonic speed, claimed thousands of lives, particularly in and around London.

Michael, who was only 15 months old when his mother died at the age of 28, was grateful to Hertsmere Borough Council for backing the idea.

"On behalf of the families whose names are inscribed, I’d especially like to thank Morris Bright, John Graham, Ian Kershaw and Shani Coleman, who took a suggestion and made it a reality."

Councillor Parveen Rani, portfolio holder for street scene, parks, leisure and culture, added: "The memorial is a touching tribute to those who lost their lives in this tragic local attack.

"I am grateful to all involved in creating this space to allow loved ones to honour those they have lost and for the event to be memorialised for future generations."