Second World War Mosquito pilot and legendary RAF hero Colin Bell turns 104
Well-wishers have taken to social media to wish a decorated pilot who served as a pathfinder with 608 Squadron during the Second World War a very happy 104th birthday.
Flight Lieutenant (Retired) Colin Bell, a Royal Air Force veteran and Distinguished Flying Cross holder, flew the de Havilland Mosquito fighter bomber and survived 50 raids over Germany, including 13 over Berlin, earning him acclaim from Bomber Command.
When describing the Mosquito to BFBS Forces News in 2023, he said: "It was faster, it would just respond to the slightest pressure on the controls.
"It could fly on one engine almost as well as it could on two – slowly, but it was very responsive.
"I was very lucky to be flying Mosquitos, I was very lucky to be in the RAF as a pilot. I always regard it as a privilege."
In 1941, a 20-year-old Mr Bell was inspired to join the RAF when, while walking towards Hampton Court Bridge, a German aircraft dropped a bomb on the other side of the road.
Of this moment in his life, he wrote on Twitter in 2019: "Good job it was a small bomb or I wouldn't be here tonight.
"So I thought I would apply to join the RAF in the hope I might catch up with the Hun.
"Of course I never did, but it was the start of some amazing adventures."
Former RAF navigator John Nichol took to X to congratulate his "friend and legendary RAF hero", adding: "A simply incredible man, still enjoying life to the full.
"His drive and vigour puts most of us to shame!"
Mr Bell keeps himself busy by giving motivational speeches about his experiences in the Second World War.
In the last five years, he has spoken at more than 60 engagements, raising awareness and funding for veterans' charities, including the RAF Benevolent Fund.
He was awarded a BEM for Charitable Services in the 2025 New Year's Honours List.
Speaking in 2023, Mr Bell emphasised that nationwide celebrations and memorials, such as those commemorating D-Day, are vital for reminding people of the seriousness of conflict.
He stated that the events of the Second World War should serve as a wake-up call to ensure we never unintentionally drift into war again.
Mr Bell said: "[Wartime memorials] remind people how important it is to have adequate defence – and unfortunately this is something I think your everyday Briton has rather lost sight of.
"I remember the warnings given by Sir Winston Churchill that people were disregarding.
"Believe it or not, until 1938, the British government were trying to persuade other people in Europe to disarm, while Germany was arming up to the teeth.
"How stupid can you get?
"I hope the lessons are being learnt, albeit late in my lifetime."
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