Gravesend’s newest landmark has won a national award which recognises the best public statues and artwork.

The Pujji Memorial on the riverfront at St Andrew’s Gardens commemorates and celebrates the involvement of those around the world who served Britain in military campaigns from 1914-2014.

The statue is of Second World War airman Mahinder Singh Pujji DFC (Distinguished Flying Cross); one of 2.5 million servicemen from the Indian subcontinent who fought for the Allies during the Second World War.

He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his bravery in the Royal Air Force.

He was one of only 18 qualified Indian pilots who volunteered for the RAF, in 1940.

Mr Pujii was born in 1918 in Simla, India, and spent his final years in Gravesend before dying on September 18, 2010, aged 92. His statue was unveiled last year after a public subscription raised £70,000.

Mr Jennings recreated every part in minute detail, right down to the buttons on his coat.

He said: “I immersed myself in the commission for eight months and my references were based on knowledge gleaned from family members of the subject and senior members of the RAF.

“Mr Pujji refused to wear the protective head gear because of his religion. Researching the turban was fascinating; I learnt how to tie the turban Mr Pujji wore from Jagdev Virdee."

"He highlighted there are several different ways of tying a turban; however Mr Pujji tied his in a distinct way with six folds and a high peak. It was paramount that I got that right.”

Council leader Cllr John Cubitt (Con) was delighted to see the statue win the hotly contested award.

“The statue has rapidly become a major feature of Gravesend’s historic riverside and it is a wonderful and long-overdue tribute to all those who served this country,” he said.

“The award is recognition of the sculptor’s incredible attention to detail and is truly deserved."

"All who see it cannot fail to be impressed and I’m absolutely thrilled for Douglas and very thankful that he has given the borough such a tremendous and enduring landmark as well as providing cultural heritage for future generations.”