Campaign for memorial to “forgotten” air force hero

Former RAF flyer George Thompson, who flew night missions over Burma, died at 96 with no family members and few surviving friends.

Hundreds turned up at his funeral in May after the Royal Air Force Association appealed for people to give him a proper send-off.

The Association is raising money to create a headstone.

Derek Padgett, RAFA branch chairman, said: “The RAF Association looks after the RAF family and this doesn’t necessarily end when someone passes away.

“The money we raise through this appeal will be used to fund a burial plot and headstone for George’s ashes. As so many people came to honour him at his funeral, we hope this will be a short fundraising campaign and that we will soon have enough for a fitting memorial.”

Over £800 has been raised so far towards a £1,500 target.

Online donor Alan Stone said: “A hero and well deserving of a memorial.”

Another online donor, Victor Summers, said: “With thanks from one of the later generations who remember what such men did for their families and country.”

To donate visit: uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/GeorgeThompsonMemorial