A CAMROSE man who fought in one of history's most famous battles was remembered last week.

Pembrokeshire County Council chairman Clive Collins unveiled a plaque in memory of namesake Private Thomas Collins, who fought at the Battle of Rorke's Drift.

Pvt Collins was one of 145 British troops who bravely defended a supply station against over 4,000 attacking Zulu warriors in 1879.

The rearguard action was later immortalised in the classic film Zulu starring Michael Caine.

And, on Wednesday last week, Cllr Collins led the ceremony to remember the only county man believed to have fought at Rorke's Drift.

Cllr Collins, who may well be related to Pvt Collins, unveiled a plaque at Camrose Community Centre.

He said: "It would be a huge honour if my family was found to be related to Pvt Collins.

"Pembrokeshire is very proud to claim him as one of our own."

Rev Ivor Rees led the congregation in prayers and in the singing of Men of Harlech and both the Welsh and British national anthems.

Also present was Brigadier ID Cholerton, Commander 160 (Wales) Brigade.

Later there was a brief service at Haverfordwest Cenotaph before soldiers, flag bearers and band members performed a march along Picton Place.

From records it is known that Pvt Collins was one of eight children and born in Pelcomb, in 1861.

He almost certainly lied about his age upon joining the army, by pretending he was older than he actually was.

In reality he was just 16 when he joined up and only 18 when he fought at Rorke's Drift.

He left the army in 1891, suffering from severe rheumatism, but little is known about his later life or death.

But one theory is that he may have emigrated to America where several family members had gone to live.