A NEW retirement complex being built close to Hereford city centre has been named after a military figure.

McCarthy and Stone announced yesterday that the development on Friars Street will be named William Grange in honour of local legend, William John Pullinger.

Mr Pullinger was a Sergeant-Instructor stationed at the Hereford Drill Hall on Friars Street where he was responsible for recruitment, training and the overall wellbeing of soldiers.

He first joined the Herefordshire Regiment at the age of 31 in 1929 and remained with them until he retired.

A popular, cheerful character, Mr Pullinger was awarded medals including the British War Medal for his bravery in World War One. He fought at The Somme and was shot in the leg and taken as a prisoner of war.

He was made to walk 50km and was 40 hours without food, water or any attention to his wounds.

After surviving almost nine months as a German Prisoner of War he was repatriated on November 30, 1918.

Clare Bright, Regional Sales and Marketing Director for McCarthy and Stone West Midlands, said: “We wanted to choose a name for our new Hereford development that is not only memorable, but would also resonate with local people.

"Our chosen name, William Grange, will serve as a celebration of the life of William John Pullinger and his great contribution to the Hereford community – something we hope will interest future homeowners.”

The new development is expected to welcome its first occupations in October.