In the lead-up to Remembrance Day, MPs have joined forces to campaign for a memorial stone at the unmarked grave of a soldier.

Romford MP Andrew Rosindell and Dagenham MP Jon Cruddas want to help provide a fitting tribute to a First World War soldier who has been buried in an unmarked grave for almost 90 years.

Mr Rosindell said: “We are two different constituencies but this is something that is very important to the family and we believe it is something we must support together.”

In 1915, at the age of 26, Arthur Bradford enlisted in the seventh City of London Regiment and was sent to France.

But he was caught up in a gas attack soon after joining the regiment and was sent back to England for treatment.

Sadly, he suffered severe chest infections until he died, aged just 42.

At the time of his death, Mr Bradford lived on the Dagenham Estate, in Valence Circus.

His wife and two children were left with little money to put towards his burial and his grave at East Brook cemetery in Dagenham was left without a memorial stone.

But, Barking and Dagenham Council has said Arthur’s grandfather cannot be given a memorial stone, as it is a common grave, which means he is buried on a site of multiple burials.

Mr Bradford’s grandson Arthur Simmonds lives in Kingston Road, Romford.

He said: “I was disappointed to see he was not being treated like the hero he was and feel that, as it is the 100th year since the war, all soldiers should be appreciated.”

Mr Simmonds asked Barking and Dagenham Council for permission to put a memorial stone on the grave.

But the council told him he could only place a wooden cross to mark the spot.

Mr Cruddas said: “It is very important to give recognition to those who gave their lives during the war.

“Andrew and I are united in showing our support, especially at this time when everyone who fought for us should be shown respect.”

A Barking and Dagenham Council spokesperson said: “While the council and its residents respect and will continue to honour the sacrifice made by those who have served our country, we cannot on this occasion accede to the wishes of the Simmonds family.

“However, we will be happy to speak with the family to see how their wishes may be taken forward.”