Memorial placed of RAF bomber crash in Bushey

The information board near the footpath at Finch Lane in Bushey was unveiled on the 78th anniversary of the crash (September 2) after retired geologist Dr Nigel Moore contacted Hertsmere Borough Council about erecting a sign at the spot.

When the RAF Bomber crashed, five crew members on board were killed.

Now the display board in place provides background information to the crash and pays respects to the aircrews who died during the war.

Dr Moore, who also is a volunteer researcher for the International Bomber Command Centre in Lincoln, said: "I became aware of the crash a couple of years ago when reading a one line entry in the appendix of a book. I set off on a research trail involving the National Archives, reference websites, books and the Watford Observer."

The RAF Bomber Information Board

He continued: “However, that still didn't feel enough as every time I walked by the site I was aware it was 'missing history' insofar as no-one else knew of the tragic incident that happened there, hence my approach to Hertsmere.

"It is extremely fitting that the unveiling of the information board took place on the 78th anniversary of the crash. When I started my research work for the IBCC in Lincoln five years ago I did not expect to find a bomber crash site just 600 yards from my house in Bushey."

Cllr Meenal Sachdev, portfolio holder for community, leisure, culture and health, said: “We are delighted to be able to unveil this information board and to discover more of our local history. It is important that we remember the sacrifices our service men and women have made throughout history fighting for our country.

“The RAF Bomber crashed in Bushey during the crew’s final operational training before being deployed. The navigational exercise was to simulate an attack on a British target using searchlights. Unfortunately, during evasive action manoeuvres the pilot lost control and crashed killing all five crew members.”