Memorial Unveiled Honouring WW2 Bomber Crew Killed In Crash

A new memorial has been unveiled to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the crash of a 207 Squadron Manchester bomber, resulting in the death of its seven crew. 

The Second World War bomber was mistakenly shot down by an RAF Bristol Beaufighter night fighter, searching for enemy raiders, reported to be in the area.

The memorial unveiling was close to the Poplars Farm crash site, near Wollaston in Northamptonshire.

The ceremony was led by the Reverend (Squadron Leader) Mark Perry from RAF Marham, and was attended by family members of the crew, as well as RAF representatives, including personnel from today's 207 Squadron and RAF Association veterans.

Lindsay Alvis, chair of the parish council which organised the ceremony, spoke about the harsh reminder of "all of those who serve our nation in peace and war".

"The loss of this aircraft was the result of a tragic accident but those airmen who served and lost their lives 80 years ago deserve to be remembered," he said.

"It was important for us to acknowledge them and we are delighted that so many family members have joined us to do exactly that."

The Manchester aircraft crashed after first having taken off from RAF Waddington in Lincolnshire as part of a bombing raid on the docks at Boulogne docks in occupied France.

It was then mistakenly shot down by the RAF Beaufighter night fighter, searching for enemy raiders.

Officer Commanding of 207 Squadron Wing Commander Scott Williams paid tribute to the fallen soldiers when he said: "207 Squadron and all of the squadron personnel played an important role throughout the war.

"We are proud to continue their legacy, as part of the RAF's F-35 Lightning Force.

"We owe our freedom to those who served and in particular, those who lost their lives.

"It is a privilege to be here to remember the crew of L7314 and to meet the families. I would also like to thank the organisers here at Wollaston for inviting us to be here to remember the fallen," he added.

Cover image: Lieutenant Colonel Pierre Theriault from the Canadian High Commission (Picture: RAF).