Albert McKenzie VC memorial unveiled in Tower Bridge Road

Born in Alice Street, McKenzie was an able seamen in the First World War who took part in the famous Zeebrugge raid of St George's Day 1918. While most of those with him were killed, Albert McKenzie saw off several enemy troops in the harbour at Zeebrugge, leaving him severely wounded but ultimately able to survive.

Albert McKenzie was the first London sailor ever to receive the Victoria Cross and the first sailor to be awarded the VC by the votes of his comrades.

McKenzie, who lived in Shorncliffe Road, was awarded his VC by George V in August 1918 but caught influenza which, because of his weakened resistance after his injuries, led to his death on 3 November 1918, just days before the armistice.

It is five and a half years since a fundraising campaign – spearheaded by Paul Keefe of the Stansfeld Oxford and Bermondsey Club – was launched with the aim of creating a permanent memorial to Albert McKenzie.

The memorial – which stands on a plinth designed to evoke the harbour wall at Zeebrugge – has been created by local architect Tim Wood and local blacksmith Kevin Boys.

Friday's unveiling ceremony – timed to coincide with McKenzie's 117th birthday – was carried out by former First Sea Lord and security minister Admiral Lord West.

Messages from the Queen and prime minister David Cameron were read out during the ceremony.

McKenzie's VC medal is on display in the Ashcroft Gallery at the Imperial War Museum.