Operation: Pforzheim

Date: 23/24th February 1945 (Friday/Saturday)

Unit: No. 239 Squadron

Type: Mosquito NF.30

Serial: NT354

Code: HB-F

Base: RAF West Raynham, Norfolk

Location: RAF Foulsham, Norfolk

Pilot: Fl/Sgt. Leonard Eric Twigg 1681108 RAFVR Age 23. Killed

Nav: Fl/Sgt. R.H. Turner RAFVR Survived - injured

REASON FOR LOSS:

Taking off at 17:52 hrs on a Bomber Support sortie on an operation to Pforzheim.

On return the weather had seriously deteriorated and the pilot decided to divert to RAF Foulsham where they had the FIDO facility. (Fog Investigation and Dispersal Operation) They landed at 22:40 hrs just as the ground crews ignited the system. The Mosquito touched down safely, but at a high speed. They continued down the runway but were unable to stop.

They ran into a Halifax aircraft parked in its dispersal pan No. 8. The 192 Squadron Halifax LW174 DT-H was totally destroyed in the fire that erupted. The pilot of the Mosquito was killed although his navigator escaped with slight injuries. It was concluded that the pilot may have become disorientated by the sudden rush of flames and smoke from FIDO. No crew aboard the Halifax.

A memorial to ex-employees of Robert Jenkins in Rotherham is due to be unveiled at St. Pauls Church - local to the Jenkins works which is due for demolition. The dedication service is to be held on the 25th November 2017 - Fl/Sgt. Leonard Eric Twigg is one of those named.

Burial details:

Fl/Sgt. Leonard Eric Twigg. Brinsworth Churchyard (St. George) Sec. B. Grave 91. Born on the 3rd September 1921, the son of Leonard and Beatrice Twigg (née Bailey and husband of Kathleen Jessie Twigg (née Charlesworth), of Brinsworth, Rotherham, Yorkshire, England. Grave inscription reads: "Young And Brave Met By Fate; Lord Reward Him At The Heavenly Gate".

With thanks to Leslie Leng for bringing this loss to our attention. Researched and dedicated to the relatives of this crew with thanks to sources indicated below