WAR veterans are pushing ahead with their campaign to create a lasting memorial for Jack Banks, a 16-year-old Darwen soldier killed in World War Two.

As part of the campaign, members of the Normandy Veterans' Association 95th (Barnet) branch are still searching for relatives of Private Banks, who was killed when German troops advanced on Bayeux after Allied forces landed in Normandy in June 1944.

The veterans are talking with Blackburn with Darwen Council to pass a resolution to have Jack's name inscribed on a war memorial in the borough.

The teenager was a member of the 8th Battalion of the Durham Light Infantry.

Terry Burton, chairman of the North London association, said: "Jack survived the onslaught on the beaches and was killed on July 21.

"His name is not on any war memorials and we think that, because he is a shining example for the youth of today and a symbol of all those who gave their lives for their country, he should have that honour.

"Darwen's long-forgotten son should not be unrecognised any more. Military organisations all over the country are aware of him and he should be honoured in his home town." Fourteen members from the association will visit French war graves in July to pay homage to those who died in the war.

Jack's grave lies in the Jerusalem war cemetery in the Chouain area of France. The cemetery contains fewer than 50 graves and is one of the smallest in Normandy.

Any family members or friends who knew Jack or his family are invited to get in touch with the association in order that a wreath can be laid upon their request.

Jack and Fanny Banks, parents of the teenage soldier from Darwen, are the only known living relatives of Jack.

Mr Burton said: "We want Jack to have a war memorial in Darwen and we are discussing this with the council at the moment.

"If it happens, our members would be more than happy to travel up from London to attend the opening ceremony."

The council revealed it was in talks with the Veterans' Association but no decision had been made to date. Anyone with information about Jack or his family can contact Terry on 0208 3688802.