1st January

Lancaster 3

PD368

No.9 Sqn

Bardney

Coded WS-A. Airborne 0750 1st Jan from Bardney to attack the Dortmund-Ems Canal at Ladbergen and crashed almost immediately. Sgt Dawes was not seriously injured. F/O J.W.Buckley RAAF, Sgt K.E.Dawes inj, F/O W.C.Shutler, F/O A.Nolan, F/S I.L.Moore RAAF, Sgt R.G.Round, Sgt R.A.C.Copperwaite.

1st January

Lancaster 1

NG127

No.50 Sqn

Skellingthorpe

Coded VN-D. Tasked to bomb the Mittelland Kanal near Gravenhorst but swung out of control on take- off, whereupon the undercarriage collapsed. No injuries, but the Lancaster was written off. Crew details are omitted from 50 Sqn records and details of the incident have been obtained from the Accident record Book. Such practices of ignoring take-off accidents were not unusual at this stage of the war. F/O Sagar and all his crew, presumably the personnel involved in this incident were all killed a few days later.

1st January

Spitfire 5B

BL669

53 OTU

Ashby nr Scunthorpe

Stalled whilst low-flying and crashed.

1st January

Spitfire 5B

EN858

53 OTU

Kirton Lindsey

Swung on landing and crashed into a hedge.

1st January

Anson

NK845

7 FTS

Sutton Bridge

Overshot on landing and crashed into an earth bank.

1st January

Lancaster 3

NG252

No.9 Sqn

Bardney

Coded WS-R. Airborne 0747 1st Jan from Bardney to bomb the Dortmund-Ems Canal at Ladbergen. Dived into the ground shortly after becoming airborne, due to loss of power on one or both port engines. Of those killed, three are buried in Harrogate (Stonefall) Cemetery. F/O Newton RCAF came from Rockwood, Michigan, while P/O Stevens RCAF had married Margaret Jean Slide Stevens from Batford, Hertfordshire. It is further recorded that the crew's regular engineer, Sgt Gregory, was destined to team up with F/O E.I.Waters RNZAF, whose own regular flight engineer, Sgt Booth, had been killed in this accident. F/O C.S.Newton RCAF KIA, Sgt C.Booth KIA, F/S P.Grant KIA, P/O R.C.Flynn RCAF inj, Sgt L.G.Kelly KIA, F/S E.H.Cooper RCAF KIA, P/O R.S.Stevens RCAF KIA.

2nd January

Lancaster 1

NG421

No.150 Sqn

Bardney

Coded IQ-M. This aircraft was lost on its first operation with a total of seven hours. Airborne 1510 2nd Jan from Hemswell for Nuremburg. Homebound, collided in the air 2310 with a 153 Sqn Lancaster (PB515), both Lancasters crashing at Sudbrooke, 3 miles NNE of Lincoln. They were buried in their home towns. F/O G.L.Russell KIA, Sgt G.Hargreaves KIA, F/S P.H.Rodwell KIA, F/S F.Jones KIA, Sgt J.G.Hammond KIA, Sgt J.T.Frampton KIA, Sgt G.E.W.Redmile KIA.

2nd January

Lancaster 1

LL898

No.100 Sqn

off Grimsby

Coded HW-L, Dived into the sea at 1003 from 5,500 feet while carrying out bombing practice. All are commemorated on the Runnymede Memorial. F/L V.Weatherley RNZAF KIA, Sgt J.Dubois KIA, F/O W.S.Cameron KIA, F/O R.Warwick KIA, Sgt P.Share KIA, Sgt G.H.Thirkettle KIA.

2nd January

Lancaster 3

PB515

No.153 Sqn

Sudbrooke

Coded P4-N. Airborne 1455 from Scampton. Collided with NG421 on return from Nuremburg. Lostbombers quotes 9th Aug 44, crashed at Sudbrooke Crew List PB515: F/O D.C Reid RCAF KIA, Sgt R.C Richards RCAF KIA, Sgt C. R Pogson RCAF KIA, F/Sgt H.V Durling RCAF KIA, Sgt R.Taylor KIA, Sgt D.D. Hoskins RCAF KIA, F/S A.J Eberle RCAF KIA.

2nd January

P-51B Mustang

43-24808

37 6FS / 361 FG

nr Sutton Bridge

Lost control & spun in 1 mile from airfield, pilot Marion C. Kelly bailed out.

3rd January

Lancaster 1

W4376

1662 HCU

Blyton

Airborne 1047 from Blyton for dual circuit & landing practise. Training went normally for 15 minutes, but whilst performing pre-takeoff checks at 1103, undercarriage folded and aircraft was DBR. F/L W.A. Rainey DFC inj, remaining 4 Polish crew unhurt.

3rd January

Blenheim 5

AZ947

12 PAFU

Harlaxton

Hit on the ground by AZ960(which was repaired).

4th January

Spitfire 5

W3575

53 OTU

nr Stainfield?

Landed wheels-up 5 miles south of Wickenby.

4th January

Lancaster 1

NF924

No.101 Sqn

Ludford Magna

Crash-landed, transferred to 5MU, eventually struck off charge May 1947.

4th January

P-51D Mustang

44-15036

374 FS / 361 FG

nr Holbeach

Crashed, pilot John R. Wilson Jr KIA, no further details.

5th January

Blenheim 5

AZ993

12 PAFU

Spitalgate

Hit tree on approach.

5th January

Lancaster 3

PB348

No.57 Sqn

nr Mablethorpe

Coded DX-T, Airborne 0045 5th Jan from East Kirkby to attack the German garrison at Royan dominating the mouth of the River Gironde. after becoming airborne, the crew encountered very severe icing and within a few minutes both starboard engines ceased to function. Attempts to feather the two engines were unsuccessful and their plight worsened as the ASI became affected by the icing. Bombs were jettisoned but after forty- five minutes of flying, the crew were obliged to abandon the aircraft. Subsequently, the wreckage of the aircraft was found on the beach between the Lincolnshire resort of Mablethorpe and nearby Theddlethorpe St.Helen. No injuries reported. F/O A.R.Curran RAAF, Sgt D.Howells, Sgt R.Denholme, Sgt E.Starmer, Sgt N.Ward, Sgt H.Terry, Sgt F.Gregan.

5th January

Dakota

43-48727

48 TCS / 313 TCG

nr Pinchbeck

Crashed near West Pinchbeck, possibly 4 Killed, pilot Harry R. Klaus.

6th January

Lancaster 2

LL636

1668 HCU

Bottesford

Airborne 1010 on a training sortie, landed safely, but at 1126 whilst taxying, one starboard engine caught fire due to incorrect fit of a warning light transmitter retaining nut. Minor damage, but aircraft SOC.

7th January

Oxford

P8911

5 SFTS

Sutton Bridge

Undershot whilst landing at night.

7th January

Beaufighter 10

NE756

No.236 Sqn

Donna Nook

Undercarriage collapsed on landing, aircraft hit building.

7th January

Lancaster 3

PD317

No.630 Sqn

East Kirkby

Coded LE-G. Airborne 1645 7th Jan from East Kirkby to Munich but the port engine failed soon after becoming airborne. Bombs were jettisoned and the crew returned to base but on touchdown at 1759 the Lancaster bounced and the pilot opened the throttles in an attempt to go round again. However, the port wing tip dropped and the Lancaster cart-wheeled across the airfield, F/O Billings sustaining injuries that necessitated the amputation of an arm. The two airmen killed are buried in their home towns. The remainder of the crew, it is reported, made a good recovery. F/O G.E.Billings inj, Sgt S.Harris inj, F/S A.Hobson KIA, F/O L.Knowles inj, Sgt J.Duncan inj, Sgt D.A.Holloway KIA, F/S D.Todd RAAF injured.

8th January

Wellington 10

NC954

105 OTU

nr Wootton

Engine fire caused forced landing 1.5miles south-southwest of Wootton, aircraft hit a pole on landing. Not listed in Chorley's OTU losses book.

10th January

Master 2

DL238

7 FTS

Sutton Bridge

Takeoff failed due to ice.

14th January

Lancaster 3

ND822

No.460 Sqn

Ludford Magna

Coded AR-N. Airborne 1903 14th Jan from Binbrook to attack the synthetic-oil producing plant at Merseburg/Leuna. Heard, faintly, on R/T at 2148 and landing instructions were passed. Nothing further was heard and at 2214 the Lancaster crashed near Ludford Magna Airfield. F/S Peterson died from his burns 20th Jan; with the other RAAF members of the crew he is buried in Cambridge City Cemetery. Sgt Forrest is buried in Hebburn Cemetery on the S bank of the River Tyne. P/O G.d.Walker RAAF KIA, Sgt J.G.Forrest KIA, F/S R.W.Hamilton RAAF KIA, F/S K.Hutchings RAAF KIA, F/S E.R.winton RAAF KIA, F/S L.R.Barnden RAAF KIA, F/S B.B.Peterson RAAF injured.

15th January

Oxford

V4126

7 PAFU

Sutton Bridge

Crashed due to wing hitting the ground whilst overshooting.

15th January

Wellington 13

JA144

EAAS

nr Waltham

Landed wheels-up following engine failure.

15th January

Hurricane 2c

LF395

1690 BDTF

Metheringham

Airborne 1541 from Metheringham for a fighter affiliation sortie. Landed 1631, ran for 50 yards normally, then port undercarriage leg collapsed.

15th January

Lancaster 3

LM619

1668 HCU

Westborough

Airborne 1820 from Bottesford for night bombing practise. Crashed 2030 after overshooting, map ref S55 1 inch 312641. F/O I.V.L. Thompson RAAF KIA, F/S J. Rawlinson KIA, Sgt J.G. Hazelden KIA, Sgt C.B.C. Mann KIA, F/S A.B. Thomas RAAF KIA, Sgt D.G. Brun KIA, Sgt G.F. Ashby injured.

15th January

Lancaster 1

PA160

No.300 Sqn

Hemswell

Coded BH-E. Airborne 1916 14th Jan from Faldingworth to bomb the synthetic oil refinery at Leuna. Returned successfully to base and was positioning downwind in the home circuit when it hit the ground at 0325 15th Jan near Goltho Hall in the aerodrome circuit. Four of the crew were injured, one seriously, though none are named in the Squadron Records. F/O M.Kozubski PAF, Sgt A.Jackowski PAF, P/O A.Kosciukiewicz PAF, Sgt E.Micko PAF, Sgt M.Periak PAF, Sgt G.Sigall PAF, Sgt T.Niemied PAF.

16th January

B-24J Liberator

42-51471

855 BS / 491 BG

Stowgate farm, Deeping st James

Force-landed in bad weather, pilot Frank G. Rose, no further details recorded.

19th January

Lancaster 1

W4154

1667 HCU

Sandtoft

Airborne 2055 for circuits and practise bombing. On return at 2110 aircraft bounced onto the grass. Pilot tried to get back onto the runway, but starboard wheel hit a ditch 80 yards from the runway collapsing the undercarriage.

19th January

Beaufighter 10

NV118

No.254 Sqn

North Coates

Flew into snow on overshoot, lost control and crashed onto the beach.

22nd January

Oxford

LX746

7 FTS

Sutterton

Crash-landed following engine failure.

28th January

Stirling

LK400

1660 HCU

Morton Hall, nr Swinderby

Airborne 1605 from Swinderby for conversion training. Shortly before 1730 both inner engines failed at 1400ft, and the aircraft made a forced landing near Morton Hall. Last serious Bomber Command HCU Stirling incident of the war.

29th January

Beaufighter 10

NV421

No.236 Sqn

nr North Coates

Landed wheels-up 2.5 miles south-southwest of the airfield (nr Pye's Hall?) following engine failure.

29th January

Dakota

42-25342

32 TCS / 314 TCG

Harlaxton

Landing accident, pilot Wallace R. Johnson, no further details.

1st February

Lancaster 3

ME302

No.170 Sqn

Hemswell

Coded TC-U, undercarriage collapsed after aircraft swung on takeoff for Ludwigshaven and hit a ditch.

1st February

Lancaster 1

NF912

No.61 Sqn

Skellingthorpe

Coded QR-? Airborne 1542 1st Feb from Skellingthorpe, but the port outer engine cut as the Lancaster became airborne. Exercising considerable skill, S/L Horsley succeeded in flying a very tight circuit and one minute later he crash-landed on the airfield. as he touched down, there was an explosion, followed by fire. Those killed are buried in their home towns. F/S Chapman won the CGM, Gazetted 9th May 44, for steadfastly remaining at his post, despite being severely wounded, while on operations to Nuremburg 30/31 Mar 44. F/S Sherriff's DFM was published 25th May 45. He was a Regular airman whose Service Number suggests entry to the Service in the ate 1920's or early 30's. S/L H.W.Horsley AFC KIA, W/O H.J.Pyke KIA, F/S S.Fleet KIA, F/S V.D.Merrow KIA, F/S L.Chapman CGM KIA, F/S A.A.Sherriff DFM KIA, Sgt R.T.Hoskisson inj, S/L Horsley and Sgt Hoskisson were successful evaders from LM718.

1st February

P-47D Thunderbolt

42-28810

63 FS / 56 FG

nr Bourne?

Collided with unknown aircraft and crashed 12 miles north of Peterborough, pilot Frank M. Ogden.

2nd February

Halifax 7

NP757

No.408 Sqn

North Witham

Coded EQ-B, Airborne 2010 2nd Feb from Linton-on-Ouse to bomb the synthetic oil refinery at Wanne-Eichel but whilst outbound the crew experienced engine problems of such severity that at 2110 they were forced to abandon the Halifax, leaving it to crash at North Witham, 9 miles SSE of Grantham and just to the W of the A1 below the village of Colsterworth. Two of the crew sustained quite serious injuries and a third was less seriously hurt. Their names are not identified in Squadron records. F/O J.D.Baird RCAF, Sgt P.J.A.O'Connell, F/O J.M.Black RCAF, F/O E.A.Kapanuik RCAF, WO2 W.G.Hudson RCAF, F/S R.G.Hughes RCAF, F/S W.J.Baty RCAF.

2nd February

Mosquito 6

PZ245

No.239 Sqn

Deeping st Nicholas

Landed wheels-up after engine problems.

3rd February

Spitfire 5B

EP759

53 OTU

Hibaldstow

Collided with AR427 (repaired) whilst taxying.

3rd February

Lancaster 3

PB457

No.101 Sqn

Ludford Magna

Coded SR-V, caught fire inside a hangar.

4th February

Lancaster 3

ND792

No.619 Sqn

Strubby

Coded PG-R, undercarriage collapsed after aircraft overran on landing from a training flight.

5th February

Harvard 2

KF228

17 FTS

Wellingore

Undershot on night landing and hit a hut.

5th February

Beaufighter 10

LZ155

No.236 Sqn

nr North Coates (Humberston Fitties?)

Propeller unfeathered on approach, aircraft crashed 3 miles NW of North Coates.

7th February

Lancaster 1

PB478

No.83 Sqn

Coningsby

Coded OL-E. DBR when a bomb exploded during loading of NG453 at Coningsby 9th Feb.

7th February

Lancaster 3

JA684

1668 HCU

Bottesford

Airborne 2158 from Bottesford for night dual circuits and landings. During a 3-engined overshoot, pilot inadvertently raised flaps too early and the aircraft hit the ground at 2208 and caught fire. F/O J.L. Walker DFC inj, F/O F.G. Wilkinson RCAF inj, Sgt C.M.L. Thomson inj, remaining 4 crew unhurt.

9th February

Wellington 13

MF310

EAAS

Manby

Skidded during single-engine landing.

9th February

Lancaster 1

PB478

No.83 Sqn

Coningsby

Coded OL-E. DBR when a bomb exploded during loading of NG453 at Coningsby 9th Feb.

9th February

Lancaster 1

NG453

No.83 Sqn

Coningsby

Coded OL-?. Aircraft destroyed at Coningsby when a bomb detonated after falling from its trolley. PB478 also destroyed in this accident. Not lost on operations.

10th February

Mosquito 6

HR178

2 GSU

New York

Hit a building whilst low-flying, 2 killed.

10th February

Lancaster 1

PB812

No.460 Sqn

Caythorpe

Coded AR-?. Crashed whilst on a training flight, dived in, 6 Killed – no crew names recorded.

10th February

Hurricane 2

PZ744

1690 BDTF

Seacroft, nr Skegness

Airborne from Metheringham 1016. Collided with Lancaster PB146 during fighter affiliation exercise after turning below the Lancaster, aircraft abandoned and crashed near Seacroft station at 1101, F/L I.H. Hanlon injured.

10th February

Lancaster

PB146

No.189 Sqn

Seacroft, nr Skegness

Collided with PZ744 after following it into a turn, aircraft survived and landed safely, 1 Killed (Navigator).

13th February

Spitfire 5B

AD386

53 OTU

Hibaldstow

Crashed on approach.

13th February

Lancaster 1

NF932

No.550 Sqn

Apley

Coded BQ-B2, Airborne 2139 13th Feb from North Killingholme on Operation Thunderclap (Dresden), but twenty minute after departure collided with a 300 Sqn Lancaster (PA185) also en-route to Dresden. The bodies of the two Air Gunners were found but the rest of the crew could not be identified and they are commemorated on the Runnymede Memorial. At 42, Sgt Smith was one of the oldest airmen to have been KIA, on Bomber Command Operations in WW11. F/L E.S.Allen KIA, Sgt E.T.Smith KIA, F/S G.A.Dennison KIA, F/S G.A.Maginley KIA, P/O J.R.Byrne KIA, Sgt R.G.Crump KIA, F/O J.E.Murray-Shirreff KIA.

13th February

Lancaster 1

PA185

No.300 Sqn

Apley

Coded QR-V, Airborne 2147 13th Feb from Faldingworth for Operation Thunderclap (Dresden). Twelve minutes later, still in the climb, collided with a 550 Sqn Lancaster (NF932). Both aircraft exploded and fell at Stotts farm, Apley, 3 miles SW of Wragby. Only three bodies could be identified and taken to Newark fir burial in the Polish Plot. They are all commemorated on the Northolt Polish Memorial. W/O M.Mykietyn PAF KIA, Sgt A.Jameliniec PAF KIA, W/O J.Placzek PAF KIA, F/S M.F.Ogorzal PAF KIA, Sgt A.Kacmarz PAF KIA, F/S B.Nizinski PAF KIA, Sgt L.S Goldowski PAF KIA.

16th February

B-17G Fortress

43-38779

615 BS / 401 BG

nr Bardney

Coded IY-O, named “Rough But Right” Flak damaged on mission 209 to Gelsenkirchen, the pilot 1st Lt George W. McKay reported that he was only able to fly straight and level, and was putting the aircraft on autopilot to allow the crew to bale out safely. The aircraft was abandoned with no injuries to the crew and crashed near Bardney at approx 1845.

18th February

Stirling

NK 

NK

Swinderby

Possibly a minor accident, as this is not recorded in Chorley's books.

19th February

P-51D

44-14915

436 FS / 479 FG

Sutton Bridge

Coded 9B-? Crashed into a hangar on the airfield. Pilot Richard C. Morton.

19th February

Oxford

LX333

7 FTS

Sutton Bridge

In hangar hit by 44-14915.

19th February

Oxford

MP278

7 FTS

Sutton Bridge

In hangar hit by 44-14915.

20th February

Spitfire 5

W3640

53 OTU

Hibaldstow

Crashed on overshoot.

20th February

Spitfire 5B

AR396

53 OTU

Hibaldstow

Crashed on overshoot.

23rd February

Lancaster

NK 

NK

Caythorpe

Not recorded in Chorley.

24th February

Lancaster

SW277

No.61 Sqn

Skellingthorpe

Coded QR-? Damaged beyond repair when RF137 exploded on the ground at Skellingthorpe.

24th February

Lancaster 3

RF137

No.61 Sqn

Skellingthorpe

Coded QR-E. Exploded 1846 on its dispersal pan at Skellingthorpe. Earlier in the day RF137 had been involved in an aborted raid on the Dortmund- Ems canal and it is probable that the accident occurred as the bomber was being de bombed. LAC Wilson is buried in Cambridge City Cemetery, his two colleagues were taken to their home towns. LAC Higgins was aged 41. Eleven other airmen were injured in this accident. SW277 was damaged beyond repair by the explosion. LAC B.Burnell KIA, LAC C.H.Higgins KIA, LAC H.G.Wilson KIA.

25th February

Lancaster 1

ME490

1660 HCU

Swinderby

Airborne 1505 to demonstrate 3 engined landings. AC crashed 1515 from 300ft with port outer feathered. F/O J.E.Gibberd DFC RAAF KIA, S/L J.B.Sayers AFC MID KIA, F/S H. Hayes KIA, F/S/D.W. Dunthorpe KIA, W/0 H.B. Jones KIA, W/O H.W. Bennett KIA, F/S T.V.W. Rigby injured.

26th February

Lancaster 3

PB243

No.12 Sqn

nr Market Rasen

Coded PH-D. Aircraft was wrecked at Stainton-le-Vale. This aircraft was not lost on operations.

26th February

Lancaster 2

DS838

1668 HCU

Bottesford

Taxying at 1420 to take off, pilot overused his brakes, missed the turn onto the runway and ran off into soft ground, severely damaging the propellers as he tried to power onto a firmer surface.

2nd March

Lancaster 3

ND572

No.57 Sqn

Ruskington Fen

Coded DX-?. Collided with ME473 on a fighter affiliation exercise and crashed near Ruskington.

2nd March

Lancaster 3

ME473

No.207 Sqn

Ruskington Fen

Coded EM-M. Collided with ND572 (57 Sqn) over Lincolnshire during a fighter affiliation exercise. Not lost on operations.

3rd March

Lancaster 1

ME781

1651 HCU

Woolfox Lodge

Airborne 1903 from Woolfox Lodge on op supporting main force ops over Germany and Norway. Approaching to land at 0048, speed decayed to 80mph, pilot tried to correct, lost control and crashed just outside the airfield. F/O D.F. Law KIA, Sgt R. Leigh KIA, F/O P.N. Young KIA, F/O W.J. Trice KIA, Sgt H. Vaudrey KIA, Sgt S.J. Webb KIA, Sgt W.G. Kneen injured.

3rd March

Lancaster 1

NN809

1660 HCU

Swinderby

Airborne 0015 from Swinderby for night conversion training. On landing at 0030, starboard tyre burst, aircraft departed runway and undercarriage collapsed.

3rd March

Spitfire 5

BM645

53 OTU

Hibaldstow

Crashed during night flying sortie.

4th March

Spitfire 5

W3375

53 OTU

Kirton Lindsey

Crashed on takeoff.

4th March

Lancaster 3

ME442

No.44 Sqn

Brocklesby Park

Coded KM-V. One of twenty RAF bombers shot down in the UK by Intruders from the Luftwaffe Operation Gisella. Airborne 1842 3rd Mar from Spilsby to attack the Dortmund-Ems Canal at Ladbergen. Homebound and in UK airspace, picked up by an Intruder and shot down 0100 4th Mar to crash amongst trees in Grannington Park on the Brocklesby Estate near Frimsby. F/O Ryan and Sgt Birch are buried in Cambridge City Cemetery; the others are buried in their home towns, the two air Gunners both coming from Liverpool. F/O J.J.F.Ryan RAAF KIA, Sgt T.H.Jarman KIA, F/S R.R.Russell KIA, F/S H.J.Terry KIA, Sgt H.Birch KIA, Sgt H.Payne KIA, Sgt W.H.Rogan KIA.

4th March

Lancaster 3

NG502

No.460 Sqn

Langworth

Coded AR-J. At around 0130 4th Mar, shot down by a Ju88 flown by Fw Heinrich Conse of 7./NJG5 and crashed, burning, into fields near the Barfield House, Langworth, some 7 miles NE of Lincoln. The two men who were killed are buried in Cambridge City Cemetery. F/O W.B.Warren, Sgt A.Streatfield KIA, F/S S.Gannon, F/S F.D.Kelly, F/S R.E.D.Avey RAAF KIA, F/L R.D.Grinter, Sgt R.J. Jackson.

4th March

Lancaster

ND387

1651 HCU

3 miles N of Woolfox Lodge

Coded BS-K, Airborne from Woolfox Lodge on diversionary force op supporting main force. Shot down by an intruder approx 0100. 6 Killed, 1 inj, Those killed are buried in various cemeteries in UK. Three are buried in Cambridge City Cemetery. F/S A.Howard KIA, Sgt A.W.Darling KIA, Sgt W.J.Pullan KIA, F/O K.C.Millar KIA, F/S R.B.Wilson RNZAF KIA, Sgt A.W.Taylor KIA, Sgt J.Thompson injured.

4th March

Lancaster 3

ME323

No.12 Sqn

between East Stockwith and Blyton

Coded PH-P, Shot down by an Intruder during a night training flight and crashed 0110 4th Mar between Stockwith and Blyton, two villages 3 miles NW and NE respectively from Gainsborough. The five Australians were buried in the Cambridge City Cemetery and the other two were taken to their home towns. P/O A.G.Thomas KIA, F/S T.McCaffray KIA, F/S E.L.Horstmann RAAF KIA, F/S W.N.Pridmore RAAF KIA, F/S G.E.Davis RAAF KIA, F/S A.Cryer RAAF KIA, F/S A.H.Weston RAAF KIA.

4th March

Lancaster 3

PB476

No.12 Sqn

Ulceby Cross

Coded PH-C, Shot down on a training sortie by an Intruder, crashing 0029 4th Mar at Weekly Cross on the A16,near Alford, where four were buried in the local cemetery. The average age for the crew was 22 F/O N.A.Ansdell KIA, Sgt R.F.D.Shafer KIA, F/O A.Hunter KIA, F/O A.G.Heath KIA, Sgt R.O.Parry KIA, Sgt A.H.Walker KIA, Sgt W.Mellor KIA.

4th March

Halifax 3

MZ680

No.76 Sqn

nr Cadney

Coded MP-R, Airborne 1823 3rd Mar from Holme-on-Spalding Moor for Kamen. On return, while positioning to join the circuit, attacked from below by an Intruder whose fire set light to the starboard outer engine and fuel tanks. All baled out, about 0115, some getting clear from less than 600 feet and landing in the vicinity of Cadney, 3 miles SSE of Brigg. Most sustained injuries of a minor nature, but Sgt Shearman was very badly hurt and was destined to spend many months undergoing hospital treatment. P/O H.Bertenshaw inj, Sgt H.Wood, F/S G.Austin, F/S G.F.H.French, F/S D.Skilton, Sgt M.Shearman inj, Sgt L.Sporne.

4th March

Halifax 3

NA680

No.347 Sqn

nr Cranwell

Coded L8-H. Lost returning from mission to Kamen. Airborne 1812 3rd Mar from Elvington, Homebound, shot down by an Intruder and crashed about 0105 near RAF Cranwell. Five, as ordered, baled out, but Sgt Le Masson FFAF, the Flight Engineer was wounded and unable to help himself. Cne Laucou, without hesitation, remained at the controls and made a desperate, but unsuccessful, attempt at a forced-landing. Cne P.Laucou FFAF KIA, Sgt P.le Masson FFAF KIA, Asp L.Viel FFAF, Sgt H.Giroud FFAF, Sgt C.Pochont FFAF, Sgt M.Hemery FFAF, Sgt P.Charriere.

4th March

Halifax 3

NR250

No.466 Sqn

Yawlingate, Friskney

Coded HD-N, airborne from Driffield at 1843 for Kamen, which was bombed at 2205. On return, the aircraft was shot up by an intruder at approximately 0040. The crew baled out over Waddington, aircraft crashed into a cottage at Friskney killing 2 in the cottage. There have been other reports of the crash site being variously near Skellingthorpe or at Thirkleby Wold, West Lutton, near Driffield. Sgt P. Stewart injured.

4th March

Lancaster

JB699

1651 HCU

on airfield at Woolfox Lodge

Coded BS-F, Airborne from Woolfox Lodge on diversionary force op supporting main force. Shot down by an intruder approx 0135. F/L D.J.Baum KIA, Sgt J.A.W. Smith KIA, F/O D.C. Davies KIA, F/S R. Warne KIA, F/S C.E. Gardener RNZAF KIA, F/O K.R. Brook DFC RAAF KIA, Sgt T. Platt KIA.

4th March

C-46 Commando

44-77654

313 TCG

in the Humber

Shot down and crew killed by friendly fire – in this case Humber AA batteries.

4th March

Ju88-G6

C9+RR

7 / NJG5

Hackthorn Rd, Welton

ROC Observer J.P.Kelway ROC was killed when the Ju88 shot up his car on the Welton to Spridlington road. Moments later, the enemy Intruder crashed, killing its crew, after flying into telegraph wires. They were buried a few days later in Scampton (St.John The Baptist) Churchyard.

6th March

Lancaster 3

ME386

No.207 Sqn

Boston

Coded EM-G, Airborne 1734 5th Mar from Spilsby to attack the synthetic-oil plant at Bohlen. On return, crashed in the River Witham near Boston. Of the four who were killed, Sgt Cobden was taken to Cambridge City Cemetery, while the others were taken to their home towns. F/O A.H.Wakeling KIA, F/S G.L.Dickenson KIA, Sgt D.J.Browne KIA, Sgt W.T.G.Cobden KIA, Sgt T.Beattie Sgt J.E.L.Brett Sgt A.J.P.Clark.

6th March

Beaufighter 10

NV185

No.254 Sqn

North Coates

Overshot on single-engined landing, crashed on the beach.

7th March

Oxford

PH413

7 FTS

nr Spalding

Propeller shattered by bird strike, dived in 2 miles south of Spalding.

10th March

Lancaster 3

JB228

1668 HCU

Fiskerton

Airborne 1115 from Bottesford for cross-country sortie. Port outer failed, pilot feathered the engine but was unable to trim sufficiently to stop the aircraft turning to port. Landed approx 1150 at Fiskerton and swung off the runway with undercarriage folded. Sgt H.L. D'arcy inj, Sgt L.A. Mitchell inj, remaining 6 crew unhurt.

11th March

Lancaster 1

LM130

No.463 Sqn

Blankney

Coded JO-N. Christened 'Nick the Nazi Neutralizer'. Completed 48 operations. Lost on a night fighter affiliation sortie, collided with PZ740. P/O N.H. Orchard RAAF KIA, F/S R.F. Neale KIA, Sgt D.A. Charles KIA, Sgt H. Rollins KIA, Sgt W.F.H. Elcome KIA, Sgt B.J. Patch KIA, Sgt H. Shaw KIA.

11th March

Hurricane 2c

PZ740

1690 BDTF

Blankney

Airborne 2043 from Metheringham for a night fighter affiliation sortie with LM130. Collided with LM130 at around 2100, crashed in Asholt's field, Blankney. F/O S.F. Parlato DFC RNZAF KIA.

11th March

Beaufighter 10

NE218

No.254 Sqn

nr Binbrook

Flew into ground 0.75 miles southeast of Binbrook airfield, 2 Killed.

12th March

Lancaster 1

LM131

No.103 Sqn

Elsham village

Coded PM-V, Airborne 1303 from Elsham Wolds. Struck by a bomb which became embedded in the main planes. On regaining the Lincolnshire coast, the crew baled out leaving their crippled Lancaster to fall near the village of Elsham, 9 miles ENE of Scunthorpe. Sgt Carter's body was found nearby, his parachute having failed to deploy. he is buried in Denton (St.Margaret) New Churchyard. F/O B.F.Wright RCAF, Sgt F.E.Carter KIA, W/O J.Coulson, F/S G.R.Tracey RCAF, Sgt B.heath, F/S K.Coleman, F/S A.J.Bocinfuso RCAF.

13th March

Wellington 10

LP402

29 OTU

North Killingholme?

Airborne at 1140 from Bruntingthorpe for a cross-country sortie. One engine was shut down in flight due to falling oil pressure. The aircraft landed 1500hrs too far down the runway and retracted undercarriage to stop.

16th March

Lancaster 1

HK749

1662 HCU

Blyton

Airborne from Blyton 1615 for dual circuit training. At 1650 instructor demonstrated a 3 engined overshoot, but selected wrong flap setting. AC climbed to 100ft, turned 180 degrees, crashed and caught fire. F/O A.C. Blackie inj, F/S R.J. Scott RNZAF inj, F/S L.A. Potter inj, F/O L.V. Scott inj, Sgt T.B. Browne RNZAF inj, Sgt I.E. Peate inj, Sgt J. Ellerby KIA.

16th March

Lancaster 1

ND869

No.44 Sqn

off Skegness

Coded KM-M, Airborne 1743 16th Mar from Spilsby for Wurzburg but crashed eighteen minutes later into the sea off Skegness. The bodies of F/L Shephard and Sgt Mitchell were recovered, the latter being found some 300 yards off the town's pier, and taken to Cambridge City Cemetery. The others are commemorated on the Runnymede Memorial/ F/L W.H.Shephard KIA, Sgt A.W.Beauchamp KIA, F/S J.Allan KIA, F/S R.B.Judge KIA, Sgt D.F.Brown KIA, Sgt R.D.Snape KIA, Sgt R.F.G.Mitchell KIA.

16th March

Hurricane 2c

PG586

1687 BDTF

Ludford Magna

Airborne 2140 from Scampton for a fighter affiliation sortie. Whilst heading for Ludford Magna, the engine failed and the aircraft force-landed near to the airfield at 2230.

17th March

Mosquito 9

ML906

No.627 Sqn

Woodhall Spa

Coded AZ-?, airborne 1530 from Woodhall Spa for a navigation exercise. At 4000 feet, the starboard constant speed unit failed, resulting in the propeller being feathered. On return to base, the port throttle lever jammed on approach and the aircraft crash-landed at 1715 without injury to the crew.

18th March

Mosquito 2

HJ926

No.410 Sqn

Holbeach st Marks

No detail recorded.

19th March

Lancaster 3

PB155

No.460 Sqn

nr Kelstern

Coded AR-K “K-Kripes”. Airborne 0052 19th Mar from Binbrook. Crashed 0812 19th Mar while attempting an approach to Kelstern airfield. All RAAF crew-members were taken to Cambridge City Cemetery, while Sgt David is buried in Bushbury (St.mary) Churchyard, Wolverhampton. At the time of the crash, low cloud had reduced visibility and Kelstern were trying to home the crew towards the runway. P/O G.S.Browne RAAF KIA, Sgt J.N.David KIA, F/SL.W.Grant RAAF KIA, W/O G.T.McBryde RAAF KIA, F/S J.Stacey RAAF KIA, W/O A.E.Moss RAAF KIA, F/S R.C.Schodde RAAF KIA.

20th March

Lancaster 1

RA530

No.57 Sqn

Stickney

Coded DX-Y. Airborne 2345 20th Mar from East Kirkby to bomb the synthetic-oil plant but within a few minutes the Lancaster ploughed into a house near Stickney, 7 miles NNE of Boston and on the main road leading to Spilsby. F/O Cobern is buried in Cambridge City Cemetery, the other killed were taken to their home towns. F/S Searby died from his injuries 1st Apr. The house was occupied by the Chapman family. No account of civilian injuries. F/O C.A.Cobern RAAF KIA, Sgt K.C.Ashun KIA, F/O W.F.Calderbanj KIA, F/S W.S.Searby inj, Sgt R.Bates inj, Sgt E.Lawrence inj, Sgt A.Ramsbottom KIA.

20th March

Spitfire 5B

AR395

1653 HCU

Witham on the hill

Airborne from North Luffenham for fighter affiliation exercise. Collided after breaking off an attack run on a Lancaster at 1107 at 5000ft with Dominie NF889 from Cranwell, F/O L.W. Marshall DFC RAAF KIA.

20th March

Dominie

NF889

1 RS

Witham on the hill

Airborne from Cranwell on a training sortie, collided 1107 with AR395. F/S C.S. Jones KIA, W/O W.E.Durber KIA, AC2 H.Price KIA, AC2 C.J. Russell KIA, AC2 F. Salkead KIA, AC2 G.H. Sargent KIA.

20th March

Mosquito 6

NS998

No.85 Sqn

in the Wash

Coded VY-? Turned tightly to line up with the drogue aircraft on a practise gunnery sortie, stalled and spun in over the Wash. No known graves. Both are commemorated on the Runnymede Memorial. F/L G.H.Ellis Killed, Sgt W.F.Reidy Killed. Wreckage and crew's remains reported discovered in 2004 according to a report in the Daily Telegraph July 23rd 2004.

21st March

Lancaster 1

NF954

No.101 Sqn

nr Ludford Magna

Coded SR-W, crashed near airfield on a training flight.

21st March

Spitfire 5C

AR552

53 OTU

Redbourne

Engine failed on takeoff, landed wheels-up.

22nd March

Lancaster 1

PD384

No.166 Sqn

nr Kirmington

Overshot on the Limber to Caistor road, sold for scrap March 1948. Aircraft may have been recovered and repaired after the accident?

24th March

Lancaster 1

PB871

1651 HCU

Woolfox Lodge

On takeoff at 2012 for a night cross-country flight, the port outer engine cut out, causing the aircraft to swing to port, pilot overcorrected twice and undercarriage collapsed.

24th March

Lancaster 1

NG439

No.463 Sqn

Scopwick

Coded JO-? Lost on an air test, engine failed whilst single-engine handling in progress.

25th March

B-17G Fortress

42-97395

614 BS / 401 BG

2 miles north of Saltby

Coded IW-F, named "Chute the Works" The aircraft was severely damaged by Flak on it's 111th mission (Mission 236 against airfields near Rheine in support of operation Varsity, the allied crossing of the Rhine) Crash-landed, possibly near Hungerton after the crew successfully abandoned the aircraft on return.

27th March

Master 2

DK918

7 FTS

Sutton Bridge

Undercarriage collapsed on landing.

27th March

Beaufighter 10

LZ223

No.254 Sqn

North Coates

Tyre burst on takeoff for patrol, aircraft swung causing undercarriage to collapse.

27th March

P-51D Mustang

44-11189

504 FS / 339 FG

Kingerby

Crashed at Croft Farm, pilot Kenneth V. Berguson KIA.

29th March

Spitfire 5B

BL862

53 OTU

Hibaldstow

Taxying accident.

29th March

Wellington 13

HZ765

EAAS

Manby

Swung on landing and hit a fence.

30th March

Lancaster 1

PB911

No.635 Sqn

Swayfield

Coded F2-A, dived in northwest of Swayfield whilst on a training flight, possibly due to icing, 7 Killed.

1st April

A-35Vengeance

41-31397

3 GTF

nr Old Bolingbroke

Crash-landed 1 mile southeast of Old Bolingbroke after engine failure, pilot Karl H. Kirek.

2nd April

Lancaster 1

HK655

1651 HCU

Fiskerton

Coded BS-F, airborne 0850 from Woolfox Lodge on familiarisation flight. Stalled from approx 50ft at 0920 and hit a building on the Fiskerton approach, apparently all 4 engines stalled. F/L F.E Sheppard DFC KIA, F/O B.J. Wallis KIA, Sgt W.G. Cooley KIA, F/S G.A. Flindall KIA, Sgt H.G. Allan KIA, F/O G.A. Outterson KIA, F/S R.L.T. Knight KIA, Sgt H.A. Johnson KIA, Sgt H.A. Lunt inj.

3rd April

Lancaster 3

ND501

No.106 Sqn

Metheringham

Coded ZN-O, swung on night landing after training flight, undercarriage collapsed.

5th April

Lancaster 1

RF196

No.460 Sqn

Rothwell Top

Delivered to 460 Sqn 27th Mar. Coded AR-E. Lost on its first operation with a total of 6 hours. Airborne 2120 4th Apr from Binbrook to attack the Wintershall synthetic oil plant at Lutzkendorf. Bombed the AP at 0130 5th Apr from 12,000 feet and set course for base. At 0511 the Lancaster crash-landed on high ground at Rothwell Top, not far from Binbrook airfield. F/S Lillis was thrown forward on impact and sustained a broken nose. The rest escaped with nothing worse than a bad shaking. F/L W.Langcake RAAF, P/O B.J.Vogt RAAF (P2), Sgt J.Scoular, F./S A.Albans, Sgt B.Gavin, F/S J.P.Lillis RAAF inj, Sgt D.Hopkinson, Sgt J.Hankey.

5th April

Lancaster 1

LM289

No.166 Sqn

Barnetby

Coded AS-Y. Airborne 2116 4th Apr from Kirmington to bomb the Wintershall synthetic-oil plant at Lutzkendorf. On return crashed 0536 5th Apr near Mill Farm, Barnetby le Wold, a village on the W side of Kirmington Airfield and on the rail link between Scunthorpe and Grimsby. Those killed are buried in various cemeteries, three being taken to Cambridge City cemetery. F/S Bell's brother, Peter. also died on Active Service. Sgt Barlow was a recipient of the Bronze medal awarded by the RSPCA in 1934. F/O R.A.Ayton RNZAF inj, Sgt K.H.Butcher KIA, Sgt A.G.S.Laidlaw KIA, F/S R.J.McL Bell RNZAF KIA, Sgt A.Nicholson KIA, Sgt D.J.Barlow KIA, Sgt J.Benson injured.

5th April

Lancaster 3

ND639

1667 HCU

Crowle

Airborne 2200 from Sandtoft for a Bullseye exercise. Crashed Crowle 0258, after presumed loss of control. P/O J.E. Grayson RAAF KIA, Sgt S.J. Crawhall KIA, F/S M.B. Kilsby RAAF KIA, W/O E.J. Castor RAAF KIA, F/S W.S.Bennett RAAF KIA, F/S T. Evans RAAF KIA, F/S D.L. Hayes RAAF KIA.

6th April

Lancaster 1

NG271

No.50 Sqn

Waddington village

Sgt L.A. Cooke KIA, F/S R.W. Faulks RAAF KIA, Sgt A. Card KIA, F/S J.C. Hughes RAAF KIA.

9th April

Lancaster 3

DV165

1667 HCU

Sandtoft

Attempting takeoff at 1535 for a cross-country flight, aircraft swung to port. Pilot tried to avoid a hedge, but undercarriage collapsed and aircraft caught fire.

12th April

Spitfire 5B

AR393

17 FTS

Cranwell

Undercarriage jammed, forcing wheels-up landing.

12th April

Mosquito 6

DZ631

No.627 Sqn

Woodhall Spa

DBR on ground, not mentioned in Chorley's 1945 book.

12th April

Beaufighter 10

NV181

No.236 Sqn

North Coates

Overran on landing and hit a dyke.

13th April

Spitfire 5B

AB986

53 OTU

Hibaldstow

Tyre burst on takeoff.

15th April

Lancaster 1

PB565

1667 HCU

Owston Ferry

Airborne 1455 from Sandtoft on cross-country flight. At 1525 aircraft observed to nose over and dive to the ground. Crash site given as sheet 39 265185. P/O H.P. Speed KIA, F/S R. Ollerton KIA, F/S J.W. Hamilton RAAF KIA, F/O B.A. Savage KIA, F/O E.B. Carss KIA, Sgt S.J. Kingdon KIA, Sgt R.B.R. Cook KIA, Sgt E.H.J. Martin KIA.

15th April

Oxford

HM676

18 PAFU

Market Deeping

Hit HT cables in poor visibility, 1K.

16th April

Lancaster 1

NG414

No.106 Sqn

Metheringham

Coded ZN-K. Crashed on take-off for Pilsen 2336 16th Apr at Metheringham and exploded later. Crew scrambled clear and were not harmed.

16th April

Spitfire 5B

W3835

53 OTU

Hibaldstow

Swung on takeoff and hit an air-raid shelter.

17th April

Lancaster

PB360

No.57 Sqn

East Kirkby

Coded DX-N, destroyed on the ground at East Kirkby by its own bombs, subsequently 5 other Lancasters were destroyed by sympathetic explosions.

17th April

Lancaster

RF195

No.57 Sqn

East Kirkby

Coded DX-F, one of six 57 Squadron Lancasters destroyed when PB360 blew up at East Kirkby.

17th April

Lancaster

ND472

No.57 Sqn

East Kirkby

Coded DX-I, one of six 57 Squadron Lancasters destroyed when PB360 blew up at East Kirkby.

17th April

Lancaster

NN765

No.57 Sqn

East Kirkby

Coded DX-X, one of six 57 Squadron Lancasters destroyed when PB360 blew up at East Kirkby.

17th April

Lancaster

PD347

No.57 Sqn

East Kirkby

Coded DX-P, one of six 57 Squadron Lancasters destroyed when PB360 blew up at East Kirkby.

17th April

Lancaster

LM673

No.57 Sqn

East Kirkby

Coded DX-U, one of six 57 Squadron Lancasters destroyed when PB360 blew up at East Kirkby.

19th April

Lancaster 3

ME357

No.49 Sqn

off Skegness

Coded EA-C or EA-U. Lost on a training sortie.

19th April

Blenheim 5

DJ702

17 FTS

Cranwell

Crashed on takeoff.

20th April

Blenheim 5

AZ937

17 FTS

Cranwell

Landed wheels-up due to undercarriage jamming.

20th April

Lancaster 1

HK958

1660 HCU

Claypole

Airborne from Swinderby 1515 for night bombing practise. Crashed Claypole 1650 due to engine failure, pilot unable to feather engine. P/O J.B. Kram inj, Sgt C.E. Brenton RCAF inj, F/S F.T. Thompson RCAF inj, F/S R.T. Bridger RCAF KIA, WO1 R.C. Fleming RCAF inj, F/S F.C.M. Robitaille RCAF KIA, F/S G.P. Charlebois RCAF KIA.

22nd April

Lancaster 3

PB463

No.49 Sqn

Fulbeck

Coded EA-? . Airborne 0955 from Fulbeck with the intention of flying to Syerston in advance of a squadron move. However, the Lancaster flew around the circuit before returning low across the airfield in a dive from which, tragically, the pilot failed to recover and a t 0957 the aircraft smashed into buildings near the M/T Section, debris scything through a parade comprising mainly of personnel from 5015 Airfield Construction Unit. In an instant, ten were killed and five others succumbed to their injuries in the days that followed, the last being LAC Moor who lived until 8th May. Their graves are now in various UK cemeteries. It is presumed that LAC Hassan, LAC Lambourn, LAC Starling and AC1 Weston recovered. at least five of the ground staff were in their 40s, LAC Wright possibly being the eldest at forty-four. F/O G.F.Elkington KIA, F/S C.I.Walker KIA, F/S L.W.Evans KIA, F/O H.Macaulay KIA, F/S M.J.C.Garrett KIA, F/L G.Wimpenny BSc AMICE KIA, Sgt C.L.Hammond KIA, Cpl H.S.Hancox KIA, LAC J.H.Davies inj, LAC J.Griffin inj, LAC L.R.Hassan inj, LAC J.E.Lambourn inj, LAC T.McKie inj, LAC L.Masterman KIA, LAC S.Mellows inj, LAC P.Moor inj, LAC F.Plumtree KIA, LAC J.W.Rogers MiD KIA, LAC T.Starling inj, LAC W.Wright KIA, AC1 R.J.Clewley KIA, AC1 J.Weston inj, AC2 G.H.Brenchley KIA.

24th April

Spitfire 5C

AR529

53 OTU

Kirton Lindsey

Crashed on takeoff.

25th April

P-51B Mustang

43-6322

354 FS / 355 FG

Holbeach st Marks

Crashed at Bingham Lodge, Bowser Farm, Holbeach st Marks. Pilot Charles R. Burns.

26th April

Spitfire 5

W3718

53 OTU

Hibaldstow

Crashed on approach.

26th April

B-17G Fortress

44-8687

486 BG

Lutton Marsh

Crashed after colliding with 44-38859 (which survived). A flight of 486 BG B17s embarked on a training mission on 26th Apr and was climbing through a thin cloud layer. At 11.7k piloted by LT Dobbins, collided with 687, running into the tail section killing the observation officer, LT Olson, instantly. Three crewmen managed to bail out from 687, however, John Hill jumped too low and his chute failed to open completely. None of LT Simmons crew flew with him on this day. The accident summary reads. Flying in a three squadron formation, the number nine aircraft (number 859) of the Lead Sqn collided with the number two aircraft (number 687) of the Low Sqn. Just prior to the accident, the Low Sqn had eased underneath (right) and slightly in trail of the Lead, while playing a turn, in an effort to maintain a smooth lead and avoid overrunning. At the time of the accident, the low sqn was in a shallow turn to the left and was evidently passing underneath, horizontally speaking, the low flight (aircraft number 859 was the number three position aircraft in this flight) of the Lead Sqn. Reason for the left turn was to regain position off (left) Lead Sqn now that the group was flying a straight course. The Low Sqn leader, off which aircraft number 687 was guiding, was holding a very good and close up position (vertical interval, 75-100 feet below low flight of Lead Sqn, horizontal interval, 50-75 feet) all during the mission. The number two aircraft (number 687) of the Low Sqn was reported to have been flying a good, steady position at all times, stacked slightly high as per current SOP. On the other hand, the pilot of the aircraft flying number nine position (number 859) was forced to fly erratic position (back and far down) because the number six aircraft (in flight above and ahead) was continually lagging. Because of this and the hazy conditions that were becoming existent, he ordered the pilot (Lead aircraft of the Low Sqn) to increase clearance between Sqn's as a safety factor. Shortly after the shallow left turn was started, aircraft 859 (number nine of the Lead Sqn) collided with aircraft number 687 (number two of Low). The number 1. and 2. props chewed into the tail section of the aircraft number 687 from above and cut off the tail empennage. After colliding, both aircraft peeled up and out of formation, aircraft number 859 returned to base on three engines, aircraft 687 went out of control immediately, spun down through the overcast, leveled off momentarily, and then crashed into the ground. 1st LT Clyde E. Simmons Pilot KIA, 1st LT Donald L. Williamson Co-pilot KIA, 1st LT James G. Olson Observer KIA, 2nd LT Vincent T. Colletti Navigator Minor injuries, 2nd LT Robert F. Bradley Bombardier Minor injuries, Sgt John J. Hill FE/Top KIA, Sgt Robert L. West Radio/Gunner KIA, Sgt Edward G. Geron Armorer/Gunner KIA.

27th April

Spitfire 5B

AA916

53 OTU

Metheringham Fen

Lost power and landed wheels-up.

28th April

Lancaster 3

DV166

1660 HCU

nr Hemswell

Airborne 2102 27th Apr from Swinderby for a high-altitude night flying exercise. Oxygen levels ran low, forcing the pilot to descend. During descent the engines were subjected to severe icing and the aircraft crash-landed wheels-up on Hemswell airfield at 0312 27th Apr.

2nd May

Spitfire 5B

BL809

17 FTS

Cranwell

Stalled whilst landing, undercarriage collapsed.

3rd May

Wellington 14

NB934

No.612 Sqn

North Coates

Swung on takeoff and hit a ditch.

3rd May

Mosquito 18

PZ300

No.254 Sqn

North Coates

Tyre burst on landing, undercarriage collapsed.

4th May

Mosquito 30

NT427

No.125 Sqn

Hackthorn

Broke up in cloud.

5th May

Mosquito 25

KB625

No.627 Sqn

Woodhall Spa

Coded AZ-L, whilst on take-ff run at 1047, the aircraft swung to starboard. Over correction caused a 180 degree swing to port after which the undercarriage collapsed.

6th May

Spitfire 5B

AB790

53 OTU

Hibaldstow

Tipped up on landing.

7th May

Spitfire 5B

AR504

53 OTU

Hibaldstow

Swung on landing, ground looped, undercarriage collapsed.

7th May

Lancaster 1

HK751

1667 HCU

Sandtoft

Airborne 2155 6th May for a night navigation exercise, returned 0150 and bounced on landing. The pilot attempted to go around, but confusion in the cockpit resulted in the Lancaster hitting the runway a second time with sufficient force to break the undercarriage.

8th May

Lancaster 1

NN806

No.576 Sqn

Fiskerton

Coded UL-M – op Manna flight: Swung off the runway at Fiskerton on departure at 1208 to drop food supplies in the vicinity of Rotterdam. Undercarriage collapsed. F/O Cross sustained a sprained wrist. No other crew injuries. Twelve hours later, at midnight, the war was over. F/O G.L.Scott, Sgt H.W.Batchelor, Sgt A.F.Marshall, F/O G.R.Cross inj, Sgt S.Hoskin, F/S J.A.McDougall, Sgt C.G.Rayner.

10th May

Spitfire 5B

AD317

53 OTU

Hibaldstow

Undercarriage collapsed on landing.

10th May

Blenheim 5

AZ991

17 FTS

Harlaxton

Collided with BA146 on the ground.

10th May

Blenheim 5

BA146

17 FTS

Harlaxton

Collided with AZ991 on the ground.

10th May

Spitfire 5B

EN948

53 OTU

Hibaldstow

Undercarriage collapsed on landing.

10th May

Lancaster 1

ED631

1651 HCU

Woolfox Lodge

Airborne 2320 from Woolfox Lodge for practise 3-engine landings. Shortly after commencing drills, the starboard engines feathered uncommanded, possibly due to faulty electrics. aircraft crashed on the runway 2335, bounced and crashed through the boundary hedge. F/O L. Boyer inj, F/O J.T. Whitby inj, F/S T.H. Cotterill inj, but died later in hospital, F/S A.R. Gunn inj, Sgt S.F. Trapp inj, F/O H.C. Mansfield inj, F/O A. Broadbent inj, Sgt J.W. Hunter inj, Sgt J.B. Lambert KIA.

11th May

Wellington 10

LN653

1 AGS

off the coast

Missing on delivery flight from Pembrey to Manby, presumed crashed off the coast while descending through fog to get to VFR conditions as the Pilot's body was recovered from the sea some 10 miles north of Manby. The pilot had apparently taken off with no WT aids, having failed to collect the appropriate radio crystals for the TR1196 radio set. There are two confirmed occupants, F/Sgt V.W.F. Townsend, S/O N.C. Rees-Price and the following are recorded as believed to be: F/Sgt L.D. Horton, LAC J.C. Fowler.

11th May

Lancaster 3

PB438

No.83 Sqn

Coningsby

Coded OL-?, belly-landed at 1915 on return from a reported food-drop sortie after a tyre burst whilst in flight, no injuries reported from 6 crew or 24 passengers. The complement on board would point to a POW repatriation flight rather than a food drop flight.

11th May

Lancaster 1

PA277

No.619 Sqn

Strubby

Coded PG-Z, hit on the ground at 0040 whilst parked on dispersal by PA276 (which was repaired).

16th May

Lancaster

NK

NK

Sturgate

Minor accident? Not recorded in Chorley or lostbombers

18th May

Lancaster 1

HK739

1668 HCU

Bottesford

Coded J9-K, attempted takeoff at 1054, failed to become airborne, crashed through perimeter hedge and was wrecked, no injuries reported.

21st May

Lancaster 1

LL952

No.100 Sqn

off Donna Nook

Coded HW-W2, ditched 5 miles east of Donna Nook whilst on an air gunnery exercise. F/O M.P. Jones KIA, Sgt I.J. Calverley KIA, F/S MA. Chalmers RAAF KIA, F/S J.W. Montague KIA, F/S W.P. Gibson KIA, Sgt P. Gapper KIA, Sgt F.A. Padmore KIA.

25th May

Lancaster 1

PD432

No.626 Sqn

nr Southrey

Coded UM-E2, the aircraft was abandoned at 1310 after engine fire in flight, crashed near Southrey.

25th May

Tiger Moth 2

N5480

19 SFTS

Wellingore

Crashed on landing.

26th May

Spitfire 9

MK480

No.130 Sqn

nr Winteringham

Belly-landed after engine failure.

28th May

Tiger Moth 2

NL829

No.442 Sqn

Digby

Overturned whilst taxying.

8th June

Harvard T2b

FX433

7 FTS

Little London

Stalled and crashed, 1 Killed.

8th June

Hurricane F2c

PG605

1654 HCU

nr Swinderby

Took off approx 1200, but on reaching 300 feet on climb out, the engine cut. F/O J.R. Hendry belly landed the aircraft back on the airfield.

15th June

Mosquito B4

DZ418

No.627 Sqn

Woodhall Spa

Coded AZ-B, crash-landed at 0057on return from night cross-country sortie.

19th June

Lancaster 3

JB306

1667 HCU

nr Sandtoft

Coded LR-E, crash-landed 0.25 miles north of the airfield at approx 1709 after both port engines failed.

20th June

Lancaster 1

NN808

1660 HCU

nr Swinderby

Airborne 1411 from Swinderby on a conversion training sortie with 9 onboard. Approx 1710, whilst on approach with the port outer feathered, the port inner feathered itself and the aircraft crashed from a height of 50 feet and caught fire, 7K S/L H.R.Pooley DFC KIA, F/L T Clay KIA, Sgt K.E. Terry KIA, F/L L. Green KIA, F/O H. Signey KIA, F/O G.M. Eden KIA, Sgt J.B.R. Brazier inj, but died in hospital, F/O B.W. Alford inj, Sgt E. Such injured.

22nd June

Martinet

HP407

2 APC

Skellingthorpe

Undercarriage collapsed on landing.

26th June

Tiger Moth 2

DE990

19 FTS

Coningsby

Blown over by slipstream from a Lancaster.

28th June

Lancaster 3

ME394

No.44 Sqn

Spilsby

Coded KM-X, the aircraft was taking off for a fighter affiliation sortie when the undercarriage collapsed after the aircraft swung on takeoff.

1st July

Lancaster 1

NX583

No.150 Sqn

Hemswell

Coded IQ-T, airborne 1205 from Hemswell en-route to Flensburg to test captured German radar systems. One engine failed en-route for Germany, the aircraft overran on return and crashed into a Hangar. F/O L. Plane KIA, F/S S. Smith KIA, + 1 Killed and 1 injured, on the ground.

3rd July

Mosquito 25

KB416

No.627 Sqn

Woodhall Spa

Coded AZ-P, airborne 1450 from Woodhall Spa, but during the flight the port engine failed. On return, the crew were not sure that the undercarriage was locked, and the aircraft bounced back into the air after a hard touchdown, followed by a crash landing, when the aircraft caught fire. The fire section NCO, Cpl Stephen Cogger entered the aircraft and freed the navigator, but was burned and beaten back by the heat when he returned to free the pilot, who was knocked unconscious in the crash. He received the George medal for this. P/O J.D. Findlayson inj, F/L D.N. Johnson KIA.

9th July

P-51D Mustang

44-14406

435 FS / 479 FG

in the Wash

Crashed into the Wash following a bird strike. Pilot Sylvan R. Routh.

13th July

Lancaster 3

PB133

No.97 Sqn

Coningsby

Coded OF-E, returned to Coningsby early from a cross-country sortie. The aircraft touched down too fast following starboard inner engine failure and overran landing, ripping the port outer engine off and bursting into flames. No crew injuries.

13th July

Lancaster 3

PB422

No.97 Sqn

Coningsby

Coded OF-P, airborne 1123 from Coningsby for a bombing exercise. The port outer engine caught fire on takeoff. The aircraft stalled and crashed into trees. F/O R.W. Wright KIA, F/S A.J. Molyneux KIA, F/O J.L. Bendix DFC KIA, F/S J. Eastwood KIA.

14th July

Lancaster 1

NG404

No.460 Sqn

nr Kirton Lindsey

Coded AR-H, abandoned after catching fire in the air, crashed near the airfield. P/O C.E. Johnson RAAF KIA, W/O K.B. Quinn RAAF KIA, F/S R.J. Rogers RAAF KIA, remaining 3 crew escaped uninjured.

17th July

Lancaster 3

ND616

No.106 Sqn

nr Metheringham

Coded ZN-J, crash-landed at 1319 after overshooting on landing. Airframe was salvaged and became 5532M.

19th July

Spitfire 5B

W3231

1687 BDTF

Hemswell

Belly-landed 1521 after undercarriage jammed in the retracted position due to failure of both main and emergency extension mechanisms.

23rd July

Harvard 2

FH111

19 FTS

Wellingore

Stalled on approach.

30th July

Lancaster 1

PA236

No.166 Sqn

nr Kirmington

Coded AS-B2, on approach to land from a ferry flight, the aircraft crashed at Barnetby Wold Farm on the west side of the airfield at 1537. F/O G.L. Willis KIA, St J.J. Pattison KIA, F/S J.A.Allen KIA, F/O L. Roche KIA, Sgt H.G. Russell KIA, Sgt C.F.M. Saunders KIA.

4th August

Mosquito 6

HX907

13 OTU

exact location unknown

Flew into the ground on a night navigation exercise. Incident recorded by Hancock, unit may be incorrect as it does not feature in Chorley's OTU losses book and 13 OTU were not recorded as operating Mosquitoes at the time of the crash.