Pimlico grandson remembers lifesaving local hero

Residents in Pimlico are remembering a neighbour whose quiet courage helped save lives during the Second World War - and whose story is still being carried forward by his family.

Published: 14/05/2026

Augustus “Gus” Blundell, a longtime resident of the Tachbrook Estate, was awarded the George Medal in 1941 for extraordinary bravery during air raids, repeatedly risking his life to rescue others. A plaque has now been installed on the estate so his story can be seen and remembered by the community. 

For his grandson Paul, it’s also been a chance to learn more about a side of his grandfather he didn’t know growing up.

“He wouldn’t have thought of himself as special,” Paul said. “It was just what he did. And he never really spoke about it - I only came to understand all of this later.”

He described the instinct that guided his grandfather during the air raids. 

“He’d be sitting there, listening for the explosions, working out where they were,” he said. “Then he’d go - follow the smoke, the commotion - and go in. He’d done it before, and he’d do it again. That was his nature.”

Official records from the time note that Gus “frequently risked his life to save others” and continued rescue work even as buildings collapsed around him, saving many lives with little thought for his own safety. 

“It came from how he felt about people around him,” he said.

“He cared about his community - that’s what drove him. That’s what it’s all about.”

Paul remembers him as a steady, trusted presence. 

“To me, he was my grandfather - and my friend,” he said. “Someone you could rely on. And when it mattered, he was brave.” 

Born in 1902 and raised in South Wales before later making his home in Pimlico, Gus was part of the Tachbrook community for many years. The plaque now on the estate offers a simple reminder of his actions for neighbours old and new.

“It means a lot to have him remembered here,” Paul added. “This was his community. People can stop, see his name and know what he stood for.”

Peabody, which has owned the Tachbrook Estate since 1972, supported the installation of the plaque so Gus’s story can be remembered for years to come.