Tony Barralet's 1940 Diary

Tony Barralet's 1940 Diary

A diary kept by Tony up to his baling out over Germany.

1940

One printed book with handwritten annotations

This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.

YBarraletAF85233v1

COLLINS OCTAVO DIARY 1940

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C/D
2/9.

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[underlined] A.F. Barralet. [/underlined]

SGT. 742409. R.A.F.

[deleted] Sackville Hotel
Bexhill on sea
Sussex

Brough Aerodrome
E. Yorks

9 S.F.T.S. Hullavington
Wilts

No 10 O.T.U. R.A.F.
Abingdon.
Berks. [/deleted]

B Flight 58 Squadron
Linton on Ouse
Yorks.

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COLLINS
OCTAVO DIARY
for
1940
(Leap Year)
SUMMER TIME ALLOWED FOR

SHOWING A WEEK AT AN OPENING
With Monthly Cash Summary

This Diary is published in the following Bindings:

No. 35 1/2. Quarter bound, cloth back - - 1/9 net
No. 36. Quarter bound, cloth back, interleaved blotting - - - 2/3 net
No. 35. Full bound cloth, interleaved blotting - - - - - 2/9 net

The above editions can be obtained with Cash Columns or Rules Faint only

LONDON AND GLASGOW
COLLINS
CLEAR-TYPE PRESS

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COMMON NOTES FOR THE YEAR 1940.

[list of notable dates]

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[1940 calendar in table form]

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[list of Bank Holiday dates and other notable dates.]

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[details of Postal Information for Great Britain and Northern Ireland]

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[details of Postal Information continued]

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[details of Postal Information continued including Eire]

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[details of Postal Information continued]

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[details of Stamps, Taxes, and Excise Duties]

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[list of Foreign timetables and sun rise and setting times]

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[dates of moon phases and eclipses for 1940]

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[list of Imperial and Foreign letter mail times]

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[details of High Water Times at London Bridge in 1940]

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[list of differences between High Water Times at London Bridge compared to other places]

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[list of dividend days at the Bank of England]

[list of notable dates and Bank Holidays for 1941]

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[calendars for 1939 and 1941 in table format]

MEMORANDA FROM 1939.

P.O. SAVING’S BOOK No. 25969
LLOYDS “ “ “ 34402/647
MIDLAND - - HS A 514999

Distribution of Effect on deceasing.

Everything to be given back to Mr & Mrs F.O BARRALET or disposed of as they think fit.
Except for A.D.V. 609. Which is to be given to P/O H. EDWARDS.

Signed A.F. Barralet.
6:11:40

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JANUARY, 1940

Monday 1
A most strenuous day, PT & drill in morning & golf in afternoon. Got thoroughly frozen plenty of ice & snow still on golf course. Played squash in evening with Dennis Jolley – just beaten after 1 1/4 hrs play. Went to Egerton Pavilion in evening for food.

Tuesday 2
Started today thoroughly tired from yesterdays exertions. P.T. after breakfast then drill & maths. Played more squash in evening with Fletcher who beat me.

Wednesday 3
Still feeling fatigued – went for route march in morning. Went to Wing dance at the Edgerton in evening which was terribly crowded & a bit rowdy. Not as good as previous dance.

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Thursday 4
Went for a Metcalf walk in morning ie a run wearing singlet longtrousers [sic] & boots. In afternoon performed a short route march in gas mask – laughing stock of town. Played table tennis with Eddy & Fletcher in evening. Arranged to go to De La Marr Theatre with Cynthia Greenwood on Sat.

Friday 5
Feeling very fit apart from slight sore throat probably after effect of vaccination. P.T. in morning & lantern slides in afternoon. Stayed in in evening to write letters. Booked 2 seats at De La Marr for Sat.

Saturday 6
Uneventful morning & afternoon shopping. Walked to Bowden in evening & met Cynthia’s people then took her to see P.G. Wodehouses If I were you, well acted but rather poor story. Home 11.0 pm.

Sunday 7
Church parade in morning. Spent most of afternoon Sleeping. Went to De La Marr in eve. with Bruce, Tony, & Paddy

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Monday 8
Played handball this morning – a very good game. Vaccinations examined as it is 10th day. Usual signals & maths in afternoon. Went to see The Four Just Men in evening with Eddy Rose & Duncan – very good film. Had letter from Dad.

Tuesday 9
Organised games arranged for this morning. Could not play Hockey as arranged so went on cross country & came in 5th about 12 ran. Maths in afternoon & lecture on teetotalism by mr [sic] Ansdell, which was not really applicable to most of us.

Wednesday 10
Played hockey for No 1 Squadron against No 2 – ground frozen hard played for 2 hrs. just lost 3-2 but good game. Average ht. of our team was 6 ft 2 ins. Went to Edgerton in evening saw Cynthia. On returning we all had a fight with Paddy who got the worst of it.

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Thursday 11
P.T. this morning & drill. Took numerous photos of B Flight in action during drill. Went to concert given by Barts concert party at Edgerton this evening. Great support given by R.A.F. who supplied all the necessary catcalls etc. But actual concert was rather weak

Friday 12
All Bexhill Squadrons attended square at De La Marr pavilion this morning for demonstration of drill & pass ball. Dem. Very good. Then had lecture on “[indecipherable word]” in Air Force. Went home for long week end. Caught 3.15 from Bexhill & travelled up with Tony Hill. Who got out at East Croyden. Home at 7.30.

Saturday 13
Up late & had a pleasant morning at home. Barbara left for Colchester 2.0 pm. Walked to Ricky & back with dog. Went skating with Dad in evening on Aquadrome & were only ones on ice. Had about 1/2 hrs skating.

Sunday 14
Pleasant lie in bed then skated morning and afternoon at Aquadrome. Grams came in in evening.

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Monday 15
Up early to catch the 9.45 [inserted] at Victoria [/inserted] back to Bexhill. Got back at 11.50 in good time for lunch. Went to No 3 Squadron’s concert at De La Marr theatre, not a bad show but lacked in pep. Cartoonist pulled off some good sketches of local personalities. Played squash in evening with Swift & got beaten.

Tuesday 16
Organised games this morning but ground was far too hard for Rugger or Hockey. Played golf instead, very good game but balls cornered terrifically. Maths & drill in afternoon. Got utterly frozen at drill & believe I have caught a chill. Staying in this evening & going to bed early. Started to snow

Wednesday 17
There was a terrific snowfall last night, at least a foot having settled. Have never seen so much snow in this country. Did some snow clearing in morning. The dance for tonight at the Edgerton pavilion cancelled due to snow. Went & saw “Robert’s Wife” at De La Marr with Eddy in evening. Also played squash with him & got beaten.

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Thursday 18
Sent on a short route march this morning to trample down snow. Could do no P.T. or drill owing to snow. Plenty of snow fighting whilst marching & really wonderful snow effects on trees etc. Went to Edgerton in evening but found it closed. Had supper in Beach Cafe.

Friday 19
Another rather uneventful day more route marches as we could do no P.T. or drill. Phoned Cynthia at lunch time to arrange for Sunday night at the variety. Played squash in evening with Fletcher & had best game yet, & was just beaten. Had supper with him in Cottage Cafe.

Saturday 20
A somewhat inactive morning. Did shopping in afternoon & went on gaurd [sic] duty at 4 pm. with Bruce Smith. Worked night shifts from 10 pm to 4 am then 10 am to 4 pm.

Sunday 21
On gaurd [sic] all day. Went to Variety at De La Marr with Cynthia, a really fine show. Called at Cs home first & saw her skiing photos. Has won gold cup at this

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Monday 22
Organised snowfight against “A flight” as there is nothing better to do, then attended a most pityful [sic] gas lecture at De La Marr. Feeling pretty tired today after sleepless night on gaurd. [sic] Had booked squash court for this evening although I do not feel like playing. However I played Fletcher again & thoroughly enjoyed it.

Tuesday 23
Long talked of Maths exam was held this morning. 7 questions in 2 hrs. Really quite easy & finished before time. Should have got required 80 percent as answers agree with others. Phoned Cynthia to arrange for further meeting this week but was out. Stayed in tonight to write letters etc. Phoned Cynthia again & got thro’ this time.

Wednesday 24

Ordered to refill our mattresses after 1st parade. All went down to basement & kicked up no end of a shindy amongst the straw & the air was quite unbreathable. Cleared up rooms after this for CO’s inspection. Went to see Only Angels Have Wings with Cynthia this evening but was not really in the mood to be good company & probably bored her with lack of conversation.

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Thursday 25

Did a bit more of our usual marching in the morning & happened to see Mrs Hebden in Bexhill. Unfortunately I could not break ranks so passed unrecognised. Was paid £33 this afternoon which was for returning fee and back pay, a very pleasant surprise. Took out £20 of National Defence Bonds. Went to Edgerton park to see what ice was like & accidently met Cynthia & Evie with little David who they take out.

Friday 26
Became really fed up this morning as weather was inclined to fog and all the snow was melting. Could do nothing but drill, snow clearing and respirator drill which was very miserable. Played Paddy at squash this evening It was his first game & he was not much good but will probably improve. Had supper in with Paddy, Hitchcock & Methren. Received letter & cake from Mother.

Saturday 27
Another most miserable morning with rain & drizzle. Have a short week end pass but cannot go to Eastbourne as arranged as Edythe is in bed. To Hastings in afternoon for swim with Duncan Methren Fletcher & Hitchcock then to pictures in evening.

Sunday 28
Went to Westfield to see Aunty Vera. Difficulty in getting there owing to snow & ice. 2 1/2 hrs to get back.

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Monday 29
Frightfully cold this morning ice 1/2" thick has formed on everything & roads & railways impassible. [sic] 6 of us were detailed to throw sand on the roads & paths outside the Sackville. Terribly bitter wind was blowing & I think I shall pay for it. Went to pictures in evening but had seen both films before. Eddy returned from sick leave tonight

Tuesday 30
Had morse test this morning although it was not really due till [deleted] fr [/deleted] Friday. The test was somewhat farcical & everyone got through.

Wednesday 31
A futile day altogether did little but have most terribly boring Anti gas lectures. Felt rotten today so lay down in afternoon Took aspirins & lay down in evening & then played cards.

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FEBRUARY, 1940.

Thursday 1
Still food shortage at breakfast owing to weather conditions. Owing to our change of flight have had to change maths class. We also changed rooms from 422 to 402 but Bruce stayed with us although he is only one still in B flight. In evening all four of us went to see ‘Gaslight’ at De La Marr. Had heard it on wireless but it was most thrilling.

Friday 2
P.T. restarted today but was excused owing to my cold. Got leave pass by 1.45 & caught 2.15 train for Victoria with Duncan. Got home about 6.30 & had pleasant evening at home.

Saturday 3
Stayed in bed this morning & had doctor who gave me certif. for at least 3 days

Sunday 4
In bed again all day today

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Monday 5
Up today – doctor called & gave me cough medicine. – In afternoon John came home with temp of 102 & went to bed. Wrote letter to Cynthia & sent hat badge as promised

Tuesday 6
Wrote to Mrs Hebden & also Eddy.

Wednesday 7
In doors all day – nothing of interest to note

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Thursday 8
In doors all day – nothing of interest to note.

Friday 9
Doctor came today & recommended my going out, also recommended ultra violet treatment.

Saturday 10
Had ultra violet treatment this morning 3 mins front 4 mins back. Quite an appreciable effect – feel brighter already. Had letter from Cynthia.

Sunday 11
Went for walk with Dandy in morning wrote letters to Rossiter & Cynthia.

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Monday 12
More Ultra violet treatment. Wrote to Eddy

Tuesday 13
Snowed again today – about 1 1/2"

Wednesday 14
More Ultra violet treatment saw the doctor who reckons to give me clearing certif for Sun.

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Thursday 15
Walked to Rickmansworth with dog in morning nothing else to note.

Friday 16
Eddy phoned – apparantly [sic] we all are due for a weeks leave next week so all at Bexhill are leaving.

Saturday 17
Phoned P/O. Peters at Bexhill about leave question – have to report to M.O. at Bexhill to be cleared before proceeding on leave.

Sunday 18
Still not fit. Eddy & Connie came over for tea & Eddy collected his car.

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Monday 19
Eddy phoned this morning saying he had had a smash going home – skidded on the ice. Car a bit bent but no serious damage. John went back to work today but my throat is not so good today

Tuesday 20
Went to see the doctor again this morning. Thinks I may have german [sic] measles so I was sent to bed with special pills.

Wednesday 21
Doctor came this morning and decided I have not got german [sic] measles. I feel better so am allowed to get up. Given doctor’s clearing certificate.

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Thursday 22
Came back to Bexhill this morning & learned that I cannot have my weeks leave till Monday. Nearly all A & B flights are on leave but found a few old pals left. Ran into Cynthia & Evie by chance this afternoon & talked a while. Went to see “Crooked Billet” at De la Marr with Fletcher Liddiard & one or to [sic] others.

Friday 23
Saw M.O. this morning & got cleared. Spent morning obtaining various forms & getting paid. Went to British Legion Club this evening with Liddiard & played billiards darts & shove ha’penny

Saturday 24
Decided at 10 am to go home as Barbara & Jack were coming up. Phoned Cynthia to cancel tomorrows arrangement. Caught 10.15 train from Bexhill. Went to “While Parents Sleep” at Watford in evening.

Sunday 25
Went over to Barbara’s house & on to Eddy’s in morning. Back to Bexhill with Eddy in evening.

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Monday 26
Caught 10.15 train from Bexhill & travelled up with Liddiard & McMaster. Got home 2.30 & finished day indoors as my cold does not seem to have improved

Tuesday 27
Took Dandy for long walk in the morning but it was rather wet. In afternoon took Mother to see Blackmail at Rickmansworth.

Wednesday 28
Dad took a days leave & we played golf at Chorleywood in morning. Rather cold & wet & my golf was far from good. Went to tea with John & Edyth in afternoon.

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Thursday 29
Took Mother to Ricky in morning & bought some books:- Amateur Adventure by Gandar Dower & Fight of the Fire Crest. & also a music tutor. Went to see “The Stars look down” at North road with Mother & Dad – one of Cronin’s stories – very good – about a mine disaster.

Friday March 1

Went for another long walk with Dandy & took a few photographs of him. Very bright morning but cold east wind blowing. [deleted] went [/deleted] Cleaned Dad’s car & got cut-out working properly.

Saturday 2
Went to Sutton to see Grannie & Grandpa Found them very well. Very cold day. Came home before blackout.

Sunday 3
Busy in garden in morning then went for walk. Eddy came over in afternoon before going to Bexhill by road.

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Monday 4
Decided on an impulse to have car rebored. Cycled over to Amersham in afternoon to get an estimate. Back to Bexhill in evening – very surprised to hear that I have been posted to Brough on Thursday.

Tuesday 5
Rather a hectic day – interview with squadron C.O. & wing C.O. Navigation exam in afternoon – this was not expected & I was not really prepared. Saw doctor in afternoon for F.F.I exam. Went to Metropole in evening & then on to Forces Corner where I saw Cynthia & said goodbye.

Wednesday 6
Little to do today – did a spot of packing in morning – then went for walk with Eddy & Tony. Watched finish of inter wing cross country. In evening went to Metropole where groups of us were celebrating on our departure. Had a riotous sing song with Eddy, Tony, Bruce, Edwards II & others. Had supper with Eddy – then to bed.

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Thursday 7
Off this morning – up 5.30 – caught 7.0 train at Bexhill West – rotten journey to town – 10.20 at Kings X for Brough. Travelled up with Whitlet McMaster Jacobs etc. Arrived at Brough 3 after quite a pleasant journey. First impression – rather uncertain – we are disappointed to find only B2’s available. I find a room to share with Whitlet – messing etc appears to be very good. Went for walk round Brough in evening.

Friday 8
Excused P.T. this morning – quite a friendly batman to wake us up – things seem to be fairly informal & friendly so far. Interviewed to day by our flight commanders and C.G.I. (Chief ground instructor) – seem to be very decent chaps. Went to Hull in evening with Whitlet others came too. Bought squash racquet 18/6. Found a decent restaurant with band (Powonly’s) & had good supper.

Saturday 9
P.T. at 7.30. Actually flying this morning – had a 40 min flip with P.O. Jackson – 1st flight since July. I don’t seem to be too bad but side by side aeroplanes take some getting used to. Landing difficult due to camoflage. [sic] To flicks in Hull in afternoon

Sunday 10
Free day – up later – went for walk with Whitlet over dales behind Brough. Went for another walk in evening

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Monday 11
Flew again this morning 1st on link trainer – allowed to use gyro here, makes turns easier. In actual air didn’t put up too good a show feel a bit hamfisted today. Went to Hull in Jacobs car then played him at squash – won. Had fish & chip supper at Brough chip shop.

Tuesday 12
Run in morning at 7.30. Had some most boring lectures of most elementary nature in morning. Failed to get any flying this afternoon but did some lamp signalling. Played squash with Methers this evening & lost in spite of his bad knee. – Had letter from Mother today Wrote to Eddy & Miss Jessop.

Wednesday 13
Rotten weather again this morning – had lectures – one on hygiene by the M.O. quite interesting. Flew in morning & afternoon practising engine approaches getting used to B2’s now & feel more confident. Went for short walk in evening – then to bed early. Had letters from Dad & Eddy who tells me about his posting to Perth.

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Thursday 14
Had some more flying this morning but weather not too good. Nearly knocked a hedge over whilst solo thro’ landing shots into wind & drifting. Played squash with Jacobs & beat him. Wrote to Swift

Friday 15
Missed flying today owing to shortage of Aeroplanes. However had 1/2 hrs. practice on Link trainer. Had row with disciplinary sergeant over bad treatment quite enjoyed the bust up & cleared the air considerably. Had long route march. Played squash with Whitlet – far to [sic] good for me. Wrote to Home.

Saturday 16
Black Sat – 2 crashes – one up on nose taking off – no injuries Then Tony & Duff (instr) crashed low flying – both badly hurt with fractured skulls. Flew doing spins today – Went to Tivoli in Hull with Jacobs & Methren rather a blue show.

Sunday 17
Played squash this morning & beat Methren. Wrote to Cynthia this afternoon & went for walk to South Cave with Whitlet

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Monday 18
Aerodrome very waterlogged all flying from far end of field Had a good aeroplane today with Cairns major 150 engine – much more powerful had good solo flight explored countryside & found wreckage of crash at Broomfleet – in middle of ploughed field. Instr. Sgt. Duff died this afternoon of his injuries – but Tony is recovering. Heard of 8 days leave starting tomorrow.

Tuesday 19
Flying cancelled today owing to weather. Lectures all day. Had some Link trainer practice this afternoon. Paid at 4 pm – left Brough at 4.10 for home in Jacob’s car. Terriffic [sic] wind but reached Baldock before dark then moon came out Very good drive – caught Ricky Bus at Kings Langley by lunch – home at 10 – well beating train.

Wednesday 20
Drove Mother & Mrs Hebden into Watford this morning. Did some alterations to enlarger this afternoon & enlarged some photographs of Dandy in evening.

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Thursday 21
Got car back this morning. Wasted most of day going to St Albans to try to obtain extra petrol from Recruiting Office. Visit quite futile – none granted. Went to Pictures in evening to see Winter Carnival with Mother & Dad & Mrs Hebden.

Friday 22
Did odd jobs on car all morning. Went to tea at John & Edyth’s in afternoon. Derek seems to have grown noticeably in a month. Ann very quiet today. Did some photography – enlargements of Dandy in evening.

Saturday 23
Odd jobs on car – Then went to see golf match between Colton Havers v. Herd & Braid former with “gritty” ball – at Sandy Lodge. Finished all square. Met Andrews of Brough in Ricky.

Sunday 24
Played golf at Ricky with Dad. My golf is greatly inspired by yesterdays revelations.

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Monday 25
Cleaned car this morning. Eddy came over after lunch & I went back with him to tea. Only came up from Bexhill this morning. Drove him to Euston to see him & Bexhill boys off to Perth. They left on 7.30 night train.

Tuesday 26
Poured with rain today. Spent morning indoors. Went to tea with Betty Jessop this afternoon at Stanmore. Bought radio for car. Took Mother & Dad & Mrs Hebden & Miss Watts to see George Formby in Keep Your seats please.

Wednesday 27
Up early & fitted wireless in car. Left home at 10.15 for Brough. Had a rather tedious journey running car in at 30 mph. Had lunch at Stilton. Arrived at Brough at about 6.30. Had trouble with petrol pump which recurred several times Letters from Swift & Betty J.

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Thursday 28
Had lectures all morning and sports this afternoon – played squash with Jacobs & was level when we broke squash ball. Stayed indoors & read chess book this evening – then went to concert by E.N.S.A. in dining room. Super show considering limits of stage All officers & instructors present – jolly good fun.

Friday 29
Horribly sick last night at 5 am. cannot account for this unless it is a chill. Flew this morning & felt better for the blow. Felt so much better in air that I was able to do spins without discomfort. Weather became rough this afternoon & taxying was difficult did not actually get a flight myself this afternoon – too few aeroplanes. Letter from Eddy.

Saturday 30
Simply glorious day to day – best seen so far at Brough. Everyone busy in air. Had very enjoyable flight … Broke valve in car radio this afternoon. Went to Tivoli Hull with Methren this evening.

Sunday 31
Indoors most of day reading & playing squash chess & billiards with Methren & Jacobs. Jacobs bought a dog!! yesterday

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APRIL, 1940

Monday 1
No flying today – weather too bad The lectures we got were very boring its a pity the lecturers can’t lecture. John’s birthday today – phoned him up in evening. Went to Hull to leave photos & get new valve for car radio

Tuesday 2
Had some instrument flying today but it seemed harder on a B2 than on the Link – this is not usually the case. Seemed to put up a poor show & pitched a lot. There is an error to be allowed for due to paralax [sic] in viewing the turn indicator from one side on these machines Went to Hull again & bought John a book for his birthday

Wednesday 3
No flying today again – lectures & films all day. Saw some quite good talkies on Engines & Meteoroligy [sic] – very interesting. Reinstalled radio in car – still some engine interference.

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Thursday 4
Another day of no flying – its becoming terrible this lack of flying & we may have difficulty after all in getting in our 50 hrs for the course. However had some more link trainer practice & seemed to get on quite well today. Strenuous squash match against Meth’ & Jacobs this evening lost to both – not good enough Had long letter from Cynthia – most interesting

Friday 5
Out for flying this morning but it was cancelled owing to wind & low cloud. Lectures all day. Payed [sic] in afternoon & then had some flying after all. Quite exciting low flying – most enjoyable way of flying but not to be practiced regularly. Went to flicks at Hull & saw Sgt Payne old White Waltham armaments instr in Newsreel of training in Canada.

Saturday 6
Glorious morning – wonderful flying – doing precautionary landings but stayed up too long & got ticked off. Went to Hull this afternoon after cleaning car. Played squash in evening

Sunday 7
Went to Hornsea & Bridlington with Methren & Jacobs in latters [sic] car had good day out – swotting this evening

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Monday 8
Had bit of flying in morning & did my first aerobatics on B.2’s. Do not seem to [sic] bad for this but are awkward in rolls. Went to Hull in evening

Tuesday 9
Beautiful morning almost too good to last. However quite a nice day with a few clouds. Had a good day of flying doing aerobatics & stall turns with Jackson & then solo. Went to Hull with Whitlet in evening to have haircut, then to Powolny’s for supper.

Wednesday 10
Glorious morning had 1 hr of Aerobatics then partial engine failure just got back but nearly made forced landing felt a bit shaky afterwards. Had test this morning quite easy but made a mess of taxying owing to high wind. Did some map reading [inserted] in afternoon [/inserted] then climbed through clouds at 6000’ & took some photos. – simply glorious loathe to come down. Also had dual low flying. Feel very tired – too much for 1 day.

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Thursday 11
Very hazy morning but very sunny did plenty of flying again today – too much in fact. Aerobatics, forced landings practised after yesterdays occurrence. Did a cross country test to Grantham in afternoon. Had to take an instructor but he was quite dormant – rather tiring. Went for glorious walk with Whitlet to Brantingham Dale – amazed that there was such nice scenery here

Friday 12
Had a lot of flying today again – Have a new instructor – F/O Pickford – seems quite decent. Tried to do instr. flying but turn indicator defective – did low flying instead. Left for week and leave at 5.15. dark just after Grantham – very dark and a trying drive back – rear lamp broke. Got home at 11. Very glad to get home

Saturday 13
Had glorious lie in this morning put radio right & went to Watford with Mother & Dad then to John & Edyth’s. Barbara & Jack arrived 7.00.

Sunday 14
All went for walk this morning Mother too – she is getting on well. Drove back to Brough 2.15 – 8.00

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Monday 15
Exams all day today as there is no flying. Had all subjects 7 in all. Only 1/2 term exams so not frightfully important. These exams are a farce as there is so much cribbing. Played squash in evening with Saunderson Beaten again

Tuesday 16
Had signals test (sound) this morning Ghandi’s (instructor) sending is terrible. Then had some most enjoyable instrument flying with F/O Pickford In the breaks we romped in the clouds & I learnt to do a flick roll. Went up solo for aerobatics but weather became foul so came down.

Wednesday 17
Had some interesting forced landing practice this morning – took Pickford to forced landing field where he got out & watched Hunt & I doing forced landing. Landed every other time for comment. Flew to Gainsborough nr Doncaster in afternoon – had good look at iron foundries at Scunthorpe – very interesting.

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Thursday 18
More instrument flying today (seemed to have improved. But at solo aerobatics discovered my rolls were very poor – mentioned this to Pickford who said he would put things right tomorrow. Had to see C.F.I. for not signing of. – got 1 evenings C.B. – actually quite useful as I got letters written to Home & Auntie Vera.

Friday 19
Pool old Jacobs very despondent over his test yesterday – seemed to have made a mess of instrument flying. Did about 12 rolls with Pickford this afternoon and at last am improving – he seems very good at spotting faults. Did some more solo – definite improvement. Went to flicks with Methren this evening

Saturday 20
Misty – had lamp signalling & armaments in morning Flying in afternoon – test with F.Lt. Snelling – not too bad at all. Rec. cake & letter from home. Went to Hull this evening – bought developing tank.

Sunday 21
Very mist all day – had little dual in afternoon Went for drive to S. Cave in evening.

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Monday 22
No flying today – weather too bad Lectures all day Went for super walk with Whitlet in evening to gain some relief after day of lectures. Found very pretty dale behind Brantingham

Tuesday 23
Bad visibility & windy – no flying today. Most boring day of lectures again. Utter pandemonium in Ghandi’s lecture Frightful din of pigeon calls & animal noises from back of class.

Wednesday 24
Have not flown since Sun. Due for test with Welch this morning. Made one faux pas – did cross wind take off for wrong wind direction – otherwise not too bad. Tester was pleased with my instrument flying – a consolation. Took Whitlet’s trip & conversed fully with him – seemed to work.

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Thursday 25
Practiced some cross wind take offs with Pickford as result of test – quite alright. Did Dr. cross country to York & Crowle in afternoon. Weather was a bit thick & I got off course on second leg. Crossed Selby & got back on course. Had range firing today E.N.S.A. concert again this evening – not bad but not as good as first.

Friday 26
Forced landing practice today as result of test on Wed. Can do them quite alright with Pickford. On leave this week end. Caught 5.23 from Brough – at Ricky by 11.15 – Dad met me at station. Travelled down with Hunt.

Saturday 27
At home today – simply glorious day went for walk with mother in morning. Uncle Cecil & Aunt Betty came over in afternoon

Sunday 28
Went over to John’s in morning as I couldn’t be present for Anne’s Christening in afternoon. Travelled back to Brough on 5.10 from Kings Cross

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Monday 29
Weather too misty for flying – weekend people had none at all on Sat & Sun. Lectures all day – very boring – feel tired from yesterdays travelling

Tuesday 30
No good for flying. Lectures all day & films on theory of Flight in afternoon. Went for another super walk with Whitlet

Wednesday May 1
Had oral Armaments exam today – wasn’t at all bad – got 84 percent. Went out for flying in afternoon but had none at all. Went to Hull & had dinner with Andrews, Whitlet & Saunderson at the Station Hotel

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Thursday 2
Had plenty of solo flying – flying ante compass courses. Didn’t feel like flying today – feel fed up & depressed & didn’t enjoy it. Went to see Deanna Durbin in First Love, with Farrow in evening.

Friday 3
Feel bit better today – did some low flying in morning & had solo cross country to find a windmill somewhere S. of Gainsborough – found this quite easily – good fun. Stayed in & did some swotting in evening.

Saturday 4
Flying for me this week end quite a nice week end for it. Have Sgt. Welch as instr for day or two.

Sunday 5
Flying all day – did wind speed and direction by 180 degrees method with Welch.

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Monday 6
Made up rest of my instrument flying time today – blind take offs – quite good.

Tuesday 7
Had interesting cross country today. Triangular circuit taking about 1 hr 10. Weather pretty thick and I got off course on 2nd leg. However found way back. Wrote to Cynthia today Postings out today. I’m going to Hullavington (Glouc). 7 of us going here. Rest going to Middle Wallop.

Wednesday 8
Had a few final lectures this morning Did some revolver practice on range in the afternoon. Thoroughly enjoyed it. Found I was 2nd best shot in B flight. Middle Wallop posting changed to Cranfield

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Thursday 9
Political situation looks bad this morning looks as though Chamberlain will resign although voting was for present government. Had afternoon off today for packing – spent day getting clearance sheets signed etc. Dad sent me a cutting showing that Signals Officers are still wanted. Might be a good idea to apply.

Friday 10
Astounding news this morning that Germany has attacked Holland and Belgium Now for fireworks! Had exams all day long then left for home on way to Hullavington Heard Dutch & Belgian ambassadors speak sounded very bitter. Chamberlain resigns his post. Churchill now prime minister. 100 German planes brought down in Holland to day.

Saturday 11
Had lie in & nice morning at home. Left about 2.30 pm. Could not wait for Barbara & Jack Arrived Hullavington 6.30. None of the Brough people have turned up tonight

Sunday 12
Up 6.30 – busy day with interviews – issuing of books etc. They seem to be pretty strict with discipline here.

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Monday 13
Had first trip in an Anson today – seems pretty collossal [sic] but relatively easy to fly. Greatest difficulty in operation of all the gadgets in correct sequence. [indecipherable word] is used for this the word being PRAFTS. Instructor is flight commander – seems quite decent & doesn’t swear – yet.

Tuesday 14
Had second trip in an Anson today can fly & land alright but cockpit drill takes some getting used to. My Instructor Fl Lt. Hoggarth is very decent.

Wednesday 15
Had solo test today with F. Lt. Mitchelmore made rather a mess of it – let flaps up when taking off again without landing – lasted 50 mins. Went solo & got caught in rainstorm. These machines are not too good to see out of in rain.

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Thursday 16
Did a few more circuits & bumps solo today – improving but still a little uncertain. Saw S/L Birchet (CGI) as to the possibility of getting transferred to Signals Branch. He agreed to forward application.

Friday 17
Plenty of flying – practised flying with 1 engine only – can only just maintain height. Did some landings with one engine too. Heard at 12.00 that we had week end leave – however did not get away till 3 pm. Took Andrews with me & had most enjoyable run back. Got back for tea. Heard that Uncle Edgar is dead.

Saturday 18
Had a super day at home again. Dad stayed at home this morning. Went for glorious walk. Started back at 7 pm. Met Andrews at Chorley Wood & travelled back with him

Sunday 19
Full working day. Did dual ht. test & went to 18000 ft – felt a wee bit dull at this ht.

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Monday 20
Lectures in morning. Did height test solo this afternoon – super afternoon could see Wales Salisbury & miles around. Stayed at 15000 ft for 1/2 hr. Had to wind in undercart for this – great effort required on an Anson. Finished afternoon with precautionary landings dual with FL. Haggarth. Played tennis with Hemming. Wrote to Aunt Ada & Mary.

Tuesday 21
Did some low flying today – seems a bit queer in these big machines. Also practiced precautionary landings. News rather discouraging today – Germans have advanced to Arras Amiens and are going for channel ports. Had letter from Eddy – he is of same opinion as myself on signals transfer – has applied too.

Wednesday 22
Rather a dull day – cleared up for flying in afternoon Practiced precautionary landings with [inserted] FL LT. [/inserted] Haggarth & Houghton as passenger. Redrafted letter applying for transfer to signals branch – don’t know if this will come off. Political situation little better – Germans knocked out of Arras.

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Thursday 23
Had no flying today Went to flicks with Bright & saw Ninotchka (Greta Garbo) – very amusing.

Friday 24
Did practice on Precautionary landings 1 engine landings & forced landings today not too sure just yet but improving. Went to Chippenham with Andrews & had haircut. Met Houghton too & all had a drink & then came back on bus.

Saturday 25
Disappointment today – normally should have day off but this is cancelled & we have to fly all day. Rung up home & spoke to Barbara & Jack too.

Sunday 26
Not fit for flying this afternoon – lectures all day – Went to see Bing Crosby in Double or Nothing this evening

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Monday 27
Had letter & gloves from Cynthia Quite normal flying today – forced landings etc. Finally got application for transfer to signals typewritten & sent in properly today Walked into Hullavington with Wright, Hemming & Farrow this evening – had a drink & played darts with locals Belgium backs out of war under Leopolds advice but against Belgian Government.

Tuesday 28
Had 15 hr test today with P/O Jones – normally a nasty piece of work but turned out to be most pleasant & he was pleased with test. Had 1st night flight tonight with Hoggarth. Quite an interesting experience. The ground seems to be just a black void in the blackout – would be terrible to lose sight of the flare path. Got on quite well.

Wednesday 29
Got 1 hr off this morning for last nights night flying. Volunteers called for this afternoon for rifle party (twin engine pilots) & machine gun party (singles) for dealing with parachute troops. Volunteered & turned up for practice this evening. Actually had bayonet practice – a most foul & objectionable business for any civilised world – did not bargain for this. Had letters from Mother Anti [sic] Vera & Eddy

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Thursday 30
Had reply to letter re. transfer to signals “no action to be taken” feel very annoyed. Had 15 hr test today seemed to do alright with P.O. JONES who is usually an objectionable being – most pleasant with me. Went to a show at Bath in Castello’s car all 4 of us got hauled onto stage to do “Knees up mother Brown” with the chorus.

Friday 31
Thank God end of week has come & can get home again. Came home in Houghton’s car with Andrews too. Home seems more like paradise every time – feel thoroughly “browned off with Hullavington – we get so little time off. Mother is getting on fine & doing plenty of gardening now

Saturday June 1
Glorious day walked to Ricky with Mother & did some gardening too. Back to Hullavington 7 oclock [sic] from Ricky Stn. Got stopped 16 times to produce our identification cards.

Sunday 2
Had 3 hr cross country this morning as passenger – felt terribly ill – too much motion at back – glad to get back.

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Monday 3
Lectures but no flying today rather uneventful day. Found most delightful swimming pool at Chippenham – part of river – 25’ diving board – lovely surroundings. I went with Andrews & Hickman – former only watched Had supper at “Bakehouse” – met some B.E.F. evacuees who had some fantastic tales to tell

Tuesday 4
Again no flying today – all machines seem to be on cross countries or being serviced. Terribly hot weather we’re having – went swimming again – took Farras & met Andy & Hemming in the Angel afterwards.

Wednesday 5
Had lectures on gyro instruments etc this morn. Went with Hoggarth on a trial cross country Anover – Tambourn – Hullavington – quite OK Then did some solo – stopped one engine in middle of aerodrome. Went swimming this evening then on to an inn at Ford – a most delightful spot right in the country. Met two female friends of Ben Lyons there. Went with Jens & Hemming.

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Thursday 6
Scheduled as duty pilot u/t today. However got relieved in morning & had cross country test with F/O Angel from Hullavington – Yeovil – Whitchurch – quite OK. Airspeed a trifle variable. Acted as duty pilot in afternoon & evening – quite interesting in charge from 6 pm – 8 pm in evening – kept fairly busy. Terribly hot today especially in uniform. Wrote to Mother & Dad.

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Monday 10
Owing to change in organisation we discovered we get this morning off (ie squad 1) – this is great – had swim at Chippenham with some other chaps then did some shopping etc. The new scheme is that we get morning off & fly in evening then fly in afternoon & get evening off alternately – good scheme.

Tuesday 11
Keep thinking its Sun today – after yesterday’s morn. off I expect. Did triangular cross country under hood today about 12 miles each leg. Could not maintain airspeed which I had calculated on – however was only about 1 mins flying from mark at finish

Wednesday 12
Starting revision in lectures now – it doesn’t seem to have been long. Did landings without flaps today – quite easy really – gliding altitude is however rather different very much flatter. Went to see Gulliver’s Travels with Graves – very good but not quite as well drawn as Disney films

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Thursday 13
Lectures in morning flying in afternoon. Learn that wings exam is fortnight on Mon Course has been considerably cut down. Did my second lot of night flying tonight – went solo – 1st landing I landed precious near red boundary dim light at end of T & it disappeared – must have blown it over – landings OK. Had to repeat each circuit as someone else was coming in

Friday 14
Had a swim this morning – very nice Did triangular cross country under hood, came out about 2 mls away from mark – have to repeat it. Went to smoking concert in mess this evening – just a “booze up” & much telling of dirty stories – wasn’t frightfully impressed

Saturday 15
Swotting for Half term exams on Mon. Also revision in flying – expect to have CFI’s test on mon. Did some armament with Andy tonight. Phoned up home.

Sunday 16
Routine day. Just of Inter night flying tonight 1 to 2 am Flew badly when dual with McCullum but did 2 solo circuits quite OK. Inter N.F. now complete.

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Monday 17
Exams all day today or at least part of morn & aft. in Nav & Arm. [inserted] mt [/inserted] not to [sic] bad. Had good lie in bed this morning after night flying. Hear that there is Maintenance & Airmanship exams tomorrow, however – feel fed up so went to see Marx bros at Circus with Houghton. Contrary to expectations it was damned funny

Tuesday 18
Had this morning off but spent it doing a bit of revision. Had new Nav flight sergt instructor for Nav. – not too good really but quite pleasant. I had C.F.I. (Chief Flying Instr) test this evening – sprung on me by surprise. Seemed to get on very well – quite smooth air. Forced & precautionary landings, were peaches. Letters from Mother & Dad

Wednesday 19
Routine lectures this morning – F/O Angell seems to have improved now that Kent has gone. At flying this afternoon did D’r cross country under hood passed but I didn’t think it was very good. Went to Malmesbury this evening with Andy & Stan Houghton. Had haircut & a walk round. Met some girls & had chat on way home Had scrap in huts tonight with some of 17 course (Race & co) who will insist on making a lot of noise at night.

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Thursday 20
Revision lectures – didn’t do too well in nav. exam but just passed. Have got to turn up for extra plotting on evening off. We are also getting Link trainer on mornings off. That means 12 hrs work per day quite frequently & no day off. Perhaps it will slacken when we have had exams.

Friday 21
Revision lectures today and same for flying – had 1 hrs flying this afternoon – just general flying. Feeling tired & fed up tonight so went for run with Andy – made a great difference & feel better for it.
Letter from Mother
“ “ Rossiter

Saturday 22
Due for flying this evening – had none & got off by 7.15. Went to Carnival fair in Chippenham with Andy & Stan – a lot of 19 course there. Had some great fun on helter skelter causing stoppages.

Sunday 23
Dull & rainy day. – Visit by Sir Cyril Newall today – did not see him. – had no flying but did T & U tests on the Link using the high speed motor. Letter & parcel from Mother

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Monday 24
My God! we are in a hell of a mess now – France has signed Armistice with Germany. Germany have occuppied [sic] whole of northern France – what a mess we’re in. Revision flying today & Signals exam. Woken up at 12.30 by bombs about 300 yds away – heard raider above – hell of a racket. Siren went 5 mins later & all retired to rabbit warrens. Spent 2 1/2 hrs there – then back to bed.

Tuesday 25
Had remains of signals exam today – Revision flying & then some dual formation – terribly bumpy day & didn’t feel to [sic] good due to previous nights lack of sleep. Formation good fun – passed as fit for solo. Surveyed bomb craters from air in nearby field – 1 [indecipherable word] was killed. Craters seem to be about 20-30’ across. Wrote to Mother & Dad.

Wednesday 26
Had a whole day of hanging about. Aldis lamp signals test this morning – utter farce. Armament oral in afternoon – did this OK. Stayed in this evening to swat for tomorrows exams.

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Thursday 27
Wings written exams all day. Nav. Arm. Airmanship & Maint. – not too bad on the whole. Much celebrating by 19 course in Chippenham. Visited fair again then went to pictures with [deleted] f [/deleted] Farras. Should have got home tonight if it wasn’t for “red tape”. Have to complete 7 hrs instr. flying on I.T.S.

Friday 28
Lost most of morning through having to make up 25 mins instr flying. Started for home 11.45 with Andy. How grand to get home again – best place on earth seems to get better & better after a long absence like this. Mother & Dad seem extremely well & cheerful Glad Mother has company in the day.

Saturday 29
Went to Watford with Mother & Dad & nearly bought a Mo’ bike – not taxing car this quarter. Barbara & Jack came over in afternoon – rather tired through raids. Back by 6-30 train from Padd. Heard some more tales of B.E.F. men on train

Sunday 30
Signing forms etc for new course. A.T.S. looks like being very interesting. My copilot is Castello.

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JULY, 1940

Monday 1
Very interesting lectures on Photography Meteorolgy [sic] & Nav. Had first flight with Casty – he seems quite steady. We found bombing range & firing range, then did some general flying to get used to each other. Went to Bath in evening to look for mo’ bikes with Casti – nothing doing. Then went to Theatre with Houghton & Castello.

Tuesday 2
Booked for camera gun exercises and line overlap photography bomb program went by the board as maint. staff had no pumps to blow up brakes. Blackwell had taxying accident then a Hart flown by Instructors landed on top of Andrews & Croxon’s Anson. Croxon very badly damaged. Andy unhurt – extremely lucky. Rotten day altogether – everyone hanging about no a/c available

Wednesday 3
Croxon died last night – everyone a bit upset but one gets very used to this kind of thing in the R.A.F. shall probably see more of this kind of [deleted] thing [/deleted] [inserted] occurrence [/inserted] soon Did air/air camera gun practice – lost target aircraft then lost ourselves. However got back & found target a/c on ground – they had’nt [sic] waited for us to finish. Also did a rail reconnaissance

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Thursday 4
More beam camera gun firing today – quite successful I think & hope. Each did a blind X country under the hood with other acting as safety pilots. Mine was not bad at all but Castello’s was a bit wide – partly my fault thro faulty timing. This A.T.S. course is very hectic & we miss a lot of meals. Wrote home.

Friday 5
Had very interesting meteorology lectures this morning. Air to ground firing this afternoon – pass targets at 300’ & fire across beam – very bumpy day which made it difficult. Acted as navigator on cross country to Taunton and Blandford forum. Very good courses – hardly needed any corrections. Got mixed up measuring IVS & D with Bomb sight.

Saturday 6
Pilot on X country to Ludlow – Banbury – Base. In cloud & heavy rain, got off courses a bit – trip quite successful. Exam results out today. Average for course 83.6 percent (record for school.) I got 86.9 percent Av.

Sunday 7
Did some air to ground firing today – very bumpy, bad shooting I believe

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Monday 8
Started on A.T.S. link today. War load climb to 15000’ in afternoon – very cloudy. Cassti has cold & suffered a bit in climb. More air to ground firing to Chippm this evening for a swim. Wrote letter to Rossiter

Tuesday 9
Started on Nav test 4 as navigator on X country Taunton-Barnstable-Crediton-Taunton-Blandford forum-base. Flt. Sgt Wynton as tester – turned back owing to cloud at 300’ & rain just before Taunton. Assessments of C.F.I’s & instrs test in I.T.S. out today – bot above average. Only 4 on course got this – quite pleased. Wrote to Ken & started letter to Cynthia

Wednesday 10
Terribly low cloud & rainy today little prospects of flying. Had lectures & films by Fl Sgt Wynton who also gave us some of his amazing experiences flying Whitleys on operations. Had no flying – got off 3.30 & went to Bristol with Andy & Stan. Looked round for a Mo’bike – all too expensive. Had drink at Mauretania then had super meal at Dunlop St Stephens Hotel. Back 11.15. Pulled Andy’s leg by telling him he was night flying – he walked 1/4 ml for nothing then came & threw us out of bed

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Thursday 11
On flying this morning made road reccs. Between Malmesbury & Tetbury, quite interesting. More air to air firing in afternoon – much better co-operation by other crew this time, climbed to 8000’ where air was very smooth & ideal for good firing – should have got some good shots in.

Friday 12
Terrible weather today no flying today. Lecture by Fl Lt Ridly on Fighter Organisation. Went to Air firing range on ground this afternoon to see signals – waste of time. Had tea with Ben Tyson Gibbs Cassti in Malmesbury Went to Chipp with Bill Wright in eve came home with Polish airmen – very interesting.

Saturday 13
Duty pilot today had some interesting chats with A.T.A. pilots. Night flying tonight by glim lamps. – damned difficult to see. Floodlight used too. Up till 4 oclock [sic] in morning.

Sunday 14
Lay in bed till 10. “Stereo pairs” photography this afternoon quite enjoyable. Wrote home. Wrote to Cynthia.

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Monday 15
Our machine u/s again this morning – maintenance bad – always being delayed with u/s machines. Scheduled for IVS & D & bombing. Self pilot Cassti bomb aimer. Terrible weather stupid to send us up for this practice. Had to abandon attempt, weather quite hopeless. Had swim tonight & went to pictures.

Tuesday 16
Cross country to Taunton-Barnstaple-Crediton-Taunton-Blandford Forum-Hullavington. Nice trip. Houghton navigator. Barnstaple brought back memories of last years holiday. 2 Harts force landed 1 Anson crashed today. Have been a lot of accidents in last few days. Short road recce. with Houghton this afternoon. Vis 2-3 mls very poor weather Wrote to Eddy.

Wednesday 17
Cross country to Halton, Worthy down – base as pilot Castello navigator. In afternoon cross country to Ludlow-Banbury-base as pilot again – Henson nav. Had letter from Dad. Feel pretty tired today. Went to Bath to Palace Theatre show with Castello & Gibbs. Phoned up home spoke to Mother but Dad not home. All three of us tried to become acquainted with a nice girl in Bath but all failed miserably – do not possess required technique.

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Thursday 18
Called out with about 10 others for interview with C.O. C.O. too busy to see us. Went back to ‘flights’ & did another road recco between Chippenham & Marsfield. Air to ground firing this afternoon, both feeling very tired & let of [sic] steam by low flying at range. Thats [sic] the worst of being tired one becomes dangerous in flying. Stayed in tonight

Friday 19
Went on Barnstaple-Crediton trip again with Blackwell Elliot & Flt. Wynton – very pleasant. Found wind speed & direction with bombsight in afternoon also did Ludlow Banbury trip with Henson. Had letter from Dad today. Saw another Thin man film with Wright

Saturday 20
3 1/2 hrs on camera obscura bombing at Kemble Then booked for Halton-Worthy Down trip. Flew over home – lovely to see home again – circled a while. Emergency exit panel blew off near White Waltham made for home base. Wireless mast knocked back & fabric was torn, aerial round tail unit.

Sunday 21
Lorenz landings on link made utter mess of 1st attempt Had medical for commission this afternoon quite OK. Held mercury at max for 1 min 10 & at 40 for 1 min 50. Night flying by headlamp

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Monday 22
Long lie in till 11.30 this morning after last nights night flying. [indecipherable word] an aircraft compass with Gibbs & Blackwell in afternoon. Played squash with Blacky this evening – terrific game, got absolutely done up, & was just beaten.

Tuesday 23
Flew with [indecipherable word] this morning doing 3 hrs instrument flying & blind X country. More lorenz landings on link this afternoon. Had portrait taken in Chippenham tonight as last record whilst in Sgts uniform with “wings up”, before getting a commission

Wednesday 24
Bombing at Kemble in morning. Flew in some filthy weather this afternoon clouds down to 300. Explored Severn valley. Did some low flying with Castello. ‘Shot up’ barges & hill tops & flew up to Worcester. Flying in valleys most of time, had to be very careful of hills as clouds were so low and rain made visibility about 1/2 mile. Good experience Went to flicks in Bath – phoned home

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Thursday 25
Most enjoyable days flying ever today. In morning went to Lyme Regis & flew low over sea to Salcombe. “Beat up town” – took photos - & shot up Bendon Farm. Met Andy & Cartright over Salcombe & proceeded to shoot them down. Did some glorious low flying at about 6’ over sea & shot up various boats. Anson will do 160 with ease at sea level. Flew home in afternoon & took more photos. Wrote home tonight

Friday 26
Application bombing today – rather a tiring and boring job. Also air/air camera gun. Had glorious air battle after we finished – Tev was flying other machine Castello ours – great fun. – surprising what an Anson will do. Went to see The Amazing Dr Clitterhouse in Chipp. – good program altogether.

Saturday 27
Horlton Warwick X country in morning. Encountered some very thick weather & cloud down to 100’. Managed to complete trip. Rushed into Bath at 5.30 to catch Austin Reeds – closed. Spent very pleasant evening at White Hart – Ford with Castello & Gibbs. Delightful village

Sunday 28
Little flying today but had a Lorenz landing on ‘Link’. Night flying tonight – held up by raid. Moved over to officers mess tonight

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Monday 29
Had a pleasant lie in in my new quarters – very comfortable indeed. This place is equivalent to a very nice hotel. Food is excellent. Saw Austin Reed’s rep. today & was measured for uniform – they sound fairly reasonable. Did another I.F. cross country with Elliot this afternoon

Tuesday 30
Had letters from home – apparently Mother has sent mo’ bike off. In flying today had some more air/air firing with ‘Bill’ Wright & [indecipherable word] – good cooperation.

Wednesday 31
Flew Taunton Banbury cross country for about the 5th time & in afternoon had some low level bombing dual with De La Rue then with Andy. We dropped 2 each from 300’. This is good fun as we can see the result immediately. Saw the “Earl of Chicago with ‘Bestie’ & Gibbs this evening – well acted by Robert Montgomery but rather sordid.

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AUGUST, 1940

Thursday 1
Had letter from Eddy this morning – rather funny – he too has got into the officers mess & is expecting a commission – we always seem to go along together. Got off early today & caught 3.15 train home for my 48 hrs leave – very slow. Found Aunt Vera staying at home. Met the 3 evacuee kids. Mother had been bathing in Col Fishers pool – very hot day

Friday 2
Had pleasant morning in garden at home. Became acquainted with the 3 new evacuees, Bernard (8), Edna (6) & [blank] (11) – very nice kids. Had swim in Aquadrome with Dad then all went to John’s to tea. Anne & Derek on great form. All of us with Aunt Vera then went to town – had dinner at Strand Palace then saw Women aren’t Angels at “Strand” with Robertson Hare & Alfred Drayton in celebration of my coming commission – it was a terrific scream.

Saturday 3
Went for a glorious swim with Dad in the Aquadrome this morn. Mother, Aunt Vera, & 3 evacuees watched. Its exceedingly nice there just like the seaside. Barbara & Jack came in afternoon Went to Ricky with Jack whilst Mother & Barbara etc. bathed in Col. Fishers pool. Mother enjoys bathing again now

Sunday 4
Sleepy day after 3 late nights. Low level bombing with Andy. Had swim in eve. with Casti, Gibbs, Andy, Ted Harrison, then went to White Hart at Ford & had drink & meal.

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Monday 5
No flying this morning. Formation dual with Rose (Andy & Coates other pupils) in afternoon big improvement. Fitted for new uniform by Austin Reeds rep. this afternoon Incidentally – took several photos whilst in formation. Went to Chipp in evening to collect mo’ bike from station – not there [underlined] yet [/underlined], also collected portraits of self from photo shop - very nice girl in photo shop worth knowing.

Tuesday 6
Enjoyable day of formation flying with Coates. Big improvement in afternoon. Blackwell’s very nice & steady to [indecipherable word] on – Tilbury was erratic. It is inclined to be a little dangerous sometimes. Sgt North took me on the Link this afternoon for ZZ landings (blind landings like Lorenz) – made quite a good job of it – quite pleased – better than Lorenz. P.T. this evening – quite pleasant.

Wednesday 7
More formation today with Coates & Houghton & Cartwright & self. Smooth day – did some really hot formatting keeping good station at 1/4 span. Coates had terrifically narrow squeak when landing as he nearly hit [indecipherable word] in a Hart. Tiger Wallis took us for practical ZZ landing today – great fun – he’s a “bit of a lad’ in the air & does good low flying. Collected mo’ bike from station Tried all evening to start it in vain – left it at a garage to see what they could do.

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Thursday 8
Flew with Houghton today practiced I.F. seriously – very useful, also did cross country on “Link” today. In evening fitted for uniform then to flicks saw Raffles & Enemy agent – very good. Had a “shandy” at Christopher hotel Bath & met two girls who worked at A.M. Admiralty. Took them to Sedan Chair for a coffee then took them home. Had them both to myself in back seat. Air raid when we got back – heard bombs falling. Had letters from Grannie & Grandpa & Mother

Friday 9
Feel tired today – flew with Earthrowl doing ZZ landings this morning not too bad efforts. Had very easy afternoon. Picked up my photos this evening – some quite good. Also collected mo’ bike. Garage had not done anything pushed it all round Chippenham & at last found motor cycle shop – promised to do something about it. Had letters from Uncle Cecil & Aunt Betty

Saturday 10
Duty pilot today. Held job down by myself all day 1 tiger overturned. Saw Fl Lt Vallance today Eddy’s old instructor from White Waltham.

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Monday 12
Hung around doing nothing again today. Suddenly told that 12 of us could have 24 hrs leave. Much rushing about to get leave passes signed then away. Went with Castello as far as Maidenhead then worked my way home on buses.

Tuesday 13
At home today. Managed to get over & see Eddy’s mother this afternoon – took Mother along too. Rather a rush today. Caught green line bus back to Windsor where I met Castello & Gibbs. Arrived back at Hullavington 11.30 pm

Wednesday 14
Did nothing today at flights – several on leave today. at 7 oclock [sic] tonight a Heinkel III nipped out of a cloud just after an all clear signal & dropped about a doz bombs on us – saw bombs falling out. Hangars and aerodrome hit – 4 killed – 10 injured petrol tanks ablaze – 2 “Hurris” damaged. Had farewell party at Gridlington tonight – very good fun but several absent due to leave

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Thursday 15
Had a look at mess caused by last nights bombing – Holes in aerodrome had been filled up overnight. A.R.S. hangar damaged quite a bit. 2 Hurricanes damaged. Thousands of little holes in anything in vicinity due to bomb splinters. These splinters had made a ghastly mess of the poor devils on the terrace. Went to Bath with Gibbs, Castello & Bell.

Friday 16
Nothing to do at flights but read & play cards. Had terrific surprise today when Eddy turned up to [deleted] taxy [/deleted] ferry our Ansons back to Little Riss. Spent morning with him & had lunch with him, this was first time I’d seen him since he went to Perth at Easter. Postings thro’ today – posted to No 10 O.T.U. Abingdon – to fly Whitleys – not exactly what I wanted. Had evening in Bath with Gibbs & Castello & 2nd Lt. Bannister.

Saturday 17
Terrible chase round this morning to get clearance chits signed etc. Came home with Andy & Harrison – home by 6 Found Barbara & Jack at home & Barbara is going to have a weeks leave too

Sunday 18
Had most enjoyable game of golf with John Jack & Dad went round Ricky in 95 – record for me.

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Monday 19
Dad had to go in to office today. Went up to town in afternoon to have portrait taken at Elliot & Fry’s Baker St. – fine studios. Afterwards went along to Dad’s office, & met Ken Rossiter & Barker, all of them are now in Alder House. Had swim in morning with Barbara at Aquadrome.

Tuesday 20
This morning went to Henley on river with Mother Dad & Barbara – very pretty part. Had swim then moved on to Henley for lunch at the Angel. Ran into Taylor from D.A. at Henley. Hired a boat & rowed up to Pollards House “Millstream” spent afternoon there – had tea then another swim before going home. Jack [deleted] turned [/deleted] phoned up as his works had been bombed.

Wednesday 21
Over to John’s place for tea this afternoon, John is having to work hard these days didn’t get back till 7. Kitty Howard & Walter came back with us for evening. Jack turned up from Colchester & has rest of week off.

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Thursday 22
Played another game of golf with Dad & Jack at Ricky today – not quite so good this time 100. Jack took us all to see “High temperature” at Duke of Yorks tonight. Very funny indeed but a bit lew, a most enjoyable evening altogether

Friday 23
Spent morning packing then to Abingdon via Paddington – dreadful journey – met Cartwright & Earthrowl. Got settled in then discovered I wasn’t wanted till Mon. Got to Oxford then caught last United Services bus back to Uxbridge.

Saturday 24
Played golf with Jack & Dad record round for me 92 on Ricky course. Had swim in Col Fishers pool. Got car reinsured

Sunday 25
Over to Eddy’s for lunch. He & Connie came home for tea. Then I drove them both to Oxford where they spent the night

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Monday 26
As usual at a new place, spent most of day hanging about & having introductory talks. All given machine gun posts to man in case of raids – am in charge of 1 post. Sent to Oxford – New Theatre – with P/O London – rather lew but funny show. Met 2 girls there

Tuesday 27
1st day of lectures. Introduced to Automatic bombsight which seems complicated at this stage. Walked down to Abingdon – met Jacobs & Malcolm now at Harwell & heard news of Cranfield chaps. Met Eddy again & we both tried to make my petrol pump work. This evening had night firing, firing from turret onto projected film of a messerschmidt [sic] on the butts

Wednesday 28
Had some interesting lectures on operational signals & operations in general seems to be great fun. Also had some good films on identification of German [deleted] [indecipherable word] [/deleted] machines & boats. Had to stay in tonight on Station Defence to man machine gun post in case of air raids

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Thursday 29
Lectures on signals and operations – very interesting to hear of all the means of foiling the jerry’s on wireless. Spent evening on river with Eddie & Connie they’ve had a good week but have to go back tomorrow morning.

Friday 30
Clay pigeon shooting today using shot gun fixed to Frazer Nash turret – good fun – hit 3 out of 5. Took the girl I met in Oxford to see Night Train to Munich – very good film. London & his girl came too Had one air raid warning & manned our guns – nothing to fire at however.

Saturday 31
Firing on range with Colt automatics – not so nice as .38 revolver. Plotting in nav this afternoon. Left for home with Blackwell & Clements leaving them at latters place near Amersham. Golf in evening

Sunday Sept. 1
Went for walk & swim in Aquadrome with Blackie. Very hot – another swim in Col Fishers pool. Picked up F/O Clements at High Wycombe & got back about 10.45

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Monday 2
Did some clay pigeon shooting this morning from turret hit 4 out of 5. Navigation test. Had another swim with London then back & fairly early to bed.
50 enemy planes down 20 of ours (10 pilots safe)

Tuesday 3
More clay pigeon shooting from power operated turret hit 2 out of 3. Had to man our machine gun posts all day today as a “blitz” was anticipated as today is anniversary of start of war.
32 or so [inserted] enemy [/inserted] planes down

Wednesday 4
45 approx enemy planes down.

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Friday 6
Lectures all day. Had signals exam this afternoon – not too bad. Also had an interesting talk this afternoon by a Wing Comm. from Bomber Comm. on fuels & consumption. Went for swim & to flicks in Oxford.

Saturday 7
Had “dry swim” all day today & a 4 hr plot in nav room working in crews, the view, signals times etc being thrown on screen Went for swim Enemy action less today more heavy raids on Berlin etc

Sunday 8
1st big air raid on London last night about 400 killed 1500 injured, 70-80 raiders down. Manned gun all day.

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Monday 9
2nd raid on London last night – chiefly East end & dockland. Many fires & quite a bit of damage done. Training resumed today started flying again after lunch & went solo on Whitleys after 1 1/2 hrs Flew with Bicknell as passenger & had to stay up 1/2 hr longer as an air raid was on. All went quite well. Blackie & London transferred to Kinloss

Tuesday 10
Flying in full swing today. Did ZZ procedure on Link trainer this morning & practiced taking DF. bearings. Due to fly in afternoon but cancelled as a/c was not available. Met Whitlet in Abingdon tonight – he is at Harwell – nice to see him again – going over to lunch sometime. Phone Abingdon 61

Wednesday 11
Started flying at 6.30 am today with Bruin (Brewster) – local flying and circuits & bumps, it is very pleasant flying in early morning
74 raiders down today

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Thursday 12
Orderly officer today – all usual jobs inspecting prisoners barracks food etc. had to sleep in Hq. block.

Friday 13
Practiced landing on runways [deleted] with [/deleted] at Stanton Harcourt. Practiced ZZ landings on Link this afternoon. This evening went to New Theatre Oxford after having dinner with Clements & fianceé [sic] & friends.

Saturday 14
Started flying again at 6.30 am. Instrument flying with P/O Keast in afternoon then got off after tea for home – took Clements to High Wycombe.

Sunday 15
Visited John & Edythe. Found my car U/S so borrowed Eddie’s. Bomb removed safely from St Paul’s today. 185 raiders down today – record

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Monday 16
A.A. fire in night – bits of shrapnel kept on hitting roof Up 5.30 started at 6.15 met Clements at his place at High Wycombe at 6.45. Pleasant morning drive but turned to rain later and made flying impossible. Spent most of morning in intelligence library. Did a good lorenz landing on ‘link’. Not many raiders today owing to weather. Approx 40

Tuesday 17
One bomb fell quite near in night Extremely blowy day & very bumpy. Did some ZZ landings with P/O Lalor and Bruin. Not too bad considering bumps. Felt very queer when in wireless op’s seat when Bruin was doing his landings. Went to New Theatre Oxford with Baroby, Pearson Barrel to see Reg. Foort.

Wednesday 18
Did some instrument flying with the renowned P/O Dura who is normally prone to swear [underlined] very [/underlined] much at pupils – put up a very good show & pleased him in fact – rather staggered myself. Then attempted ZZ landings but wireless went U/S twice. Night flying tonight on runways at Stanton Harcourt. Got steadily worse on dual after good start – however went solo with Clements as pass. Terrific crosswind on runways – flying cancelled after that

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Thursday 19
In bed this morning after night flying. Had headache all afternoon – did some more Lorenz blind landings on Link (finding beam). Phoned Whitlet in evening and went over to Wantage & had supper with him & his wife whom he married last Sat – very pleasant evening Several Oxford St stores hit last night – John Lewis’s wrecked

Friday 20
No machines serviceable this morning so no flying – did more link practice & witnessed airmens pay parade. In afternoon again attempted ZZ landings with Regional control – Dura very pleased. Got JJ from R.C. for some reason but approach was O.K.

Saturday 21
Finished day flying in A flight. Night flying at Stanton Harcourt. Did hour solo then 1 hr with Pearson & 1 hr. with Youngman – didn’t get back till 6.30 am.

Sunday 22
Had short sleep then home – wet day – repaired my car. Found Grannie & Grandpa were at home

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Monday 23
Left home 6.10 am. – now finished in A flight – transferred to “E” on Whitley Vs. Had initial dual with F/O [deleted] Procter [/deleted] [inserted] Johnson [/inserted] DFC (bar). – decent chap. – did some solo too. V’s are very nice with Merlin engines but engines are difficult to syncronise. [sic]

Tuesday 24
Long cross country this morning to Worcester-Dolgelly-[indecipherable word] back & return to base with bombing at the island [indecipherable word] back [deleted] Had [indecipherable word] [/deleted] Trip was very successful & took 3 hrs. 10 mins. Had interesting talk tonight on ‘being taken prisoner’.

Wednesday 25
No flying today for me – spent morning in intelligence library – some very useful information there.

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Thursday 26
No flying in days. Was to have gone to Oxford with Castello from Harwell but both are Night Flying. Turned out but never got off as machine was U/S. Then weather turned nasty and flying was cancelled

Friday 27
No flying in day today for me. Spent afternoon on AML. bomb aiming teacher. Night flying at Stanton Harcourt. Dual with Sgt Craig & did some solo with Bicknell both as flap operator & pilot. Played hockey today in practice game
133 raiders down today – weeks best

Saturday 28
Little flying today with flight due to lack of serviceable aeroplanes. Got permission to have tomorrow off and left for home at 4 oclock. [sic] Found Barbara & Jack at home.

Sunday 29
Back at Abingdon by teatime. Local Night Flying Did 1/2 hr with Hildred as flap operator. Didn’t like weather & didn’t feel confident so packed in. Flew back with F/O Corby who almost got lost – took 45 mins to find Abing. Foul night altogether

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Monday 30
I.F. with Pearson this afternoon. Tonight, did 6 hr X country to W [indecipherable word] - Sulby IOM-Holyhead-Bardsey-Dolgelly-Worcester-Base. Met heavy AA. Fire on return journey when above cloud and had to take evasive action to avoid this and searchlights. Turned south when near Worcester to avoid the AA. on captain’s orders & ran into AA fire at Gloucester. Shot of Varey light which must have been seen thro the clouds & fire ceased. Bombed at Marcham – good evenings experience & didn’t worry very much.

Tuesday Oct. 1
In bed till lunch time. Did a bit of A.M.L. this afternoon. One of the Ansons down in sea today. – engines cut off Welsh coast. 4 got in dinghy & 5th tried to swim to shore but got carried away in current & was lost. Others were rescued after 6 hrs. and dropped at Liverpool. Hockey practice tonight

Wednesday 2
Spent interesting morning in intelligence library. Had some special instruction by Sqn Ldr Cottell tonight with 4 others. Spent evening at Doghouse with Barsby & Pearson

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Thursday 3
Another filthy day did relatively little all day – a bit of link in morning. Went to pictures with Eric Bursby at 3.30 in afternoon – just fed up with having to hang about on camp.

Friday 4
Pretty miserable day no use for flying. Got some useful information about Whitleys in general from Sgt Verstaye. Had to witness 2 pay parades today. Played Malin at squash tonight

Saturday 5
Orderly officer today. Got out of the wretched job this afternoon to play hockey for the Station against Heyford. Were beaten 4-0. Heyford are a good team – have RAF capt.

Sunday 6
Disgustingly foul day. Did sone Link trainer – played squash & went to Oxford with Pearson Stamp & Barsby in evening

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Monday 7
Glorious morning – am at last able to start my 6 hr X country. Route. Worcester-Dolgelly-Bardsey isle-Holyhead-Surby-W. [indecipherable word]-Douglas-Rhyl-Worcester-Base. Very nice trip. F/O Corby was capt again self pilot, Sgt Stephens nav. Did bombing at YHS GIVYLAHBACK & firing into sea. Saw large convoy of about 30 ships between Douglas & Rhyl but not challenged at all. Took live overlap photos near Rhyl

Tuesday 8
Now finished all flying at Abingdon. Put in application for 7 days leave this morn. – got this signed and away in afternoon. Home for tea.

Wednesday 9
Spent today putting mo’ bike together for use on leave.

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Thursday 10
Played around with mo’ bike trying to get it in working order. Cycled over to Ruislip to see Eddy’s people this evening quite a lot of raiders over there dropping para flares over Northolt. There had been a landmine quite near them 3 evenings previously

Friday 11
Had a game of golf with Dad this afternoon. Found that there was a night train to Blackpool so decided to go up for Eddys [sic] wedding. Train left 10.50 – terribly slow journey & didn’t get to Blackpool till 9.00 am in the morning

Saturday 12
Had breakfast with Connie at Eddy’s new place. He got back from exams at 11.00. Marriage & reception were quite jolly with about 12 other officers present. Went to Winter Garden with Eddy & Connie this evening – did some dancing & went to a show Caught 10.00 pm train back.

Sunday 13
Terrible journey back didn’t arrive at Euston till about 12 oclock. [sic] Had quite a big party for ten today Parry’s, Richards, John, Barbara etc.

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Monday 14
Quite a noise in night bombs must have fallen quite close to home. Played golf with Dad this morning on Ricky course – not on good form. Spent evening at John & Edythe’s.

Tuesday 15
To Ricky in morning with Grandpa. Visited Wing Commander Silvester at [two indecipherable words] Ht. – very decent chap & made me very welcome. He too has been on Whitleys (58 Sqn Linton I think) & was on same raid as that where Fl Sgt Wynton was brought down.

Wednesday 16
Had another game of golf today [deleted] toda [/deleted] this morning with Dad.

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Thursday 17
Back to Abingdon before breakfast. Little to do all day except “Link” & “AML” trainer. To Oxford with Barrel this evening saw Arthur Askey in Charlie’s Aunt – great!

Friday 18
Flew with Clements my copilot in our crew, for first time. Scheduled for instrument flying but there was a heavy ground mist & we lost [inserted] sight of [/inserted] aerodrome on a mere circuit. Just practiced circuits & bumps as we hadn’t flown for some time. Had letter from Cynthia Greenwood. (now in Wales)

Saturday 19
Postings came through today Clements & I chose 58 squadron Linton on Ouse Yorks. Played hockey this afternoon for No 10 O.T.U. against 6 group. Drew 2 all. Do not have to report to new station till next Sat

Sunday 20
Spent all morning running round with clearance chit etc. Home again this afternoon

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Monday 21
Long walk with Dandy this morning. Found 2 large bomb craters near footpath to Sarrat. Phoned Ken & arranged to go over on Wed. for tea.

Tuesday 22
To Ricky this morning Visited Edythe this afternoon driving Mother & Grandparents over

Wednesday 23
Visited Ken & Iris at Preston road this afternoon – nice little house & had very pleasant evening Ken has made no end of furniture for the house – good scheme on getting married. Had a girl staying with them whose husband was imp. airways pilot & is now prisoner of war in Germany.

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Thursday 24
Took Mother out shopping this morning. Did nothing special all day. Jerry plane circled very low once or twice over Heronsgate way – I’m sure it was a jerry – looked like a Dornier Wrote to Cynthia Greenwood who is now a F.A.N.Y. in S. Wales.

Friday 25
To Watford with all at home. Tried to buy Mother her present as it is her birthday today. Saw ME109 in Watford on show – disappointing as instruments, gun sights, guns etc had been removed – otherwise quite similar to British machine – quite well made. Played golf with Dad & a scratch player came round with us – ex imp airways pilot. Bombs in night very close indeed.

Saturday 26
Said good bye at home & set off for Linton on Ouse at 10.30. Gave lift to a soldier on his way to Scotland dropped him Doncaster. Car broke down (piston cracked) 4 miles S of Selby. Got tow by R.A.F. lorry to Selby & finished journey on bus didn’t get in till 2000 hrs.

Sunday 27
Reported this morning & got settled in etc generally. Am in B flight 58 Sqdn. Aerodrome bombed at 1000 hrs but fell in road instead

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Monday 28
Scheduled for 1st trip tonight but this was cancelled at about 1000 hrs. before briefing. Got a bit more established in the place today – had parade on square (every Monday) at 13-15 hrs. Went to York tonight with David Hall. Wrote home

Tuesday 29
Booked for raid to Staly today. Fully briefed this morning to bomb railway station or Fiat Works at Turin. Cancelled at lunch time due to weather report. Rather an anticlimax [sic] after getting all prepared for [underlined] 1st [/underlined] raid. (We were to carry [two indecipherable words] Jerry bombed us again on the camp at 6 oclock [sic] 1800 hrs. & we made a rapid exit to shelters & were kept there for 1 1/4 hrs – damned cold.

Wednesday 30
Briefed for same raid again today but ultimately cancelled due to weather. Played Clements squash this afternoon & went for a run. Had great night in mess tonight. Had excellent dinner then enormous fun with boisterous games throwing group capts. etc down line of 2 rows into sofas at end. Also had tug of war & all sorts of rough games – rollicking fun.

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Thursday 31
Crews briefed for Berlin today but I’m not included. Got away early & collected car from Selby. Went squiffy on way back again – previous trouble was a broken piston.

Friday Nov. 1
Briefed again for Turin (ball bearing works) Aosta sec’d target Met. forcast [sic] not good. Fl Lt Harding my capt this time. Set off for Swanton Morley – advanced base at 1430 Trip cancelled due to cold front over Alps. 6 machines. All went to a pup [sic] at E. Dereham for evening – very nice evening. Swanton Morley is a one eyed hole only half built as yet.

Saturday 2
Briefed for Berlin today but trip subsequently cancelled yet again for weather. 6 more machines arrive both from 58 & 102 Sqdns. All fed up tonight – hired 2 buses & went to Norwich. Had good meal at Castle & went to Dance at “Samson & Hercules”. Half crews had only flying kit – we were a very disreputable crowd

Sunday 3
Got permission from Group to return to Linton today all overjoyed. 12 machines set off after tea, we were last as engines didn’t start too well. Had letters from Mother, Dad, Cynthia, Rossiter.

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Monday 4
Little doing today in flying line. Hung around doing odd jobs in crew room all day. In evening drove Clements to York & had dinner with some friends of his Dr Conyers who after took us to pictures Weather bad.

Tuesday 5
Weather again pretty terrible. Little done all day. Went to York with Stamp in evening to pictures again.

Wednesday 6
Crews briefed today for Stettin and several “Nursery” trips – went to briefing but was not down in a crew. Stettin trips later cancelled but nursery trips still on. Went to Naafi concert on Station.

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Thursday 7
Flew with Sgt Walters today – local flying & testing a new machine. I believe I am to be with his crew. It will be his first trip as captain He made one terrible landing flying into the deck but I think he is really quite a good pilot

Friday 8
Booked for Turin but trip was cancelled due to impossible weather. Aircrew sergeants invited into Officers Mess tonight for social evening consisting of beer song & laughter.

Saturday 9
Was down for Turin again but this was cancelled at 5 oclock. [sic] Went to York with some of the fellows met some girls & went to a Dance.

Sunday 10
See separate sheet.

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First Raid Sun Nov 10th ‘40

Primary target Oil plant at Ruhland
Secondary oil tanks at Bremen.

Crew. W. Commander Smith Capt
Self 2nd Pilot
Sgt. Wilson Navigator
Sgt Sumpner Wireless Op.
Sgt Goodwill Rear gunner.

At 1600 hrs got dressed in flying kit & we were driven out to all or aircraft 6 of 102 Sqdn 4 of 58 Sqdn. Felt rather like cattle going to slaughter. Took off without any ditches by 16.30 hrs. got well away climbing to about 7000’ & crossing coast at Flamborough Head. I manned gun in front turret during all this period over the sea as it was still light & there was danger of meeting hun fighters. When about 100 mls from Dutch coast ran into an Occlusion which

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we expected. Flying at about 10000’ we were completely blind & it was snowing very heavily. In front turret I became smothered in powdery snow which fell round my collar melting & becoming uncomfortable. There were many electrical phenomena blue sparks flying outwards from metal parts of turret the gun and pitot head with catherine wheels round aircrews. Broke through occlusion shortly after Dutch coast & pinpointed ourselves by several lakes. By now had decided to attack Bremen as weather was so bad and motors cut on using cold air to carburettors. I flew some of the time out but when A.A. became hotter the “Winco” took over. Picked out R. Edse & followed down to Bremen. On making run up anti aircraft fire became so intense & we were held by about 12 searchlights that we were unable to drop bombs on actual target but they must have hit docks instead. The AA fire was so

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close that the aircraft literally rocked & bumped very vigorously. The Winco took severe avoiding action & we ultimitely [sic] seemed to break clear of it all near the river mouth. I took over again at Dutch coast & flew home above cloud & through the same occlusion. Finally we QDM’d to Linton slightly overshooting. Got in touch with Regional Control on TR9 and broke cloud at about 4000’ at beacon. Flew to light at Linton where the ‘Winco’ took over & landed.

Discovered two small holes in aircraft on following morning

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Monday 11
Had another slack day Visited Clements’ friends the Conyers again & had supper there & afterwards saw Fred Astaire – Broadway Melody of 1940 – quite good.

Tuesday 12
Not down in todays crews. Flew with Sgt Kerr on an air test in morning & he shot up Malton. Dad phoned up from Leeds in afternoon & I went over & spent evening with him & went to a show. Stamp came to Leeds too. 102 & 58 Sqdns operating tonight [symbol] One of 102 Sqdns machines got a hit in fuselage & complete side of aircraft blown out absolutely amazing that it could fly back. Caught flares alight too but Wireless opp. put it out. Should be some decorations

Wednesday 13
Exceedingly quiet day as 58 sqdn were operating last night. Out of 9 only 4 got away as all rest were u/s for varying reasons. Flew with Sgt Kerr this afternoon – he flew practising Lorenz landings. These were not too successful as system wasn’t functioning properly. We took off with flaps down once – [inserted] by mistake [/inserted] very dangerous but we got off O.K.

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[symbol] THIS WAS LEONARD CHESHIRES MACHINE VERY LUCKY TO HAVE SURVIVED SUBSEQUENTLY GOT HIS FIRST AWARD FOR THIS. SEE PICTURE PLATE 4 FOLLOWING P96 IN CHESHIRE’S BOOK ‘BOMBER PILOT’

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POST WAR

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CAR INSURANCE POLICY NO. 575052

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JANUARY

25 R.A.F. pay 33 0 0

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FEBRUARY

Frid. 23 Paid by RAF 14 0 0

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MARCH

Car tax 2 15 0
D. Licence 5 0
Sqns [indecipherable word] 1 0 0

2. Paid by P.O. 10 12 2
11 Paid by RAF 7 10 0
19 Paid by RAF. 7 5 0

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MAY

PAID BY RAF
17.5.40. 5 0 0
31.5.40 7 0 0

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JUNE

5th Lent Wright 1 0 0 [inserted] REPAID [symbol] [/inserted]
14th PAY FROM RAF 7 0 0

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AUGUST

24.8.40 Retax car 1 19 0

28. Borrowed from Dad 4 0 0

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SEPTEMBER

CURRENT ACCOUNT

7th TO ATLAS INSUR CO. FOR CAR. 3 16 –

7th TO P.M.C. ABINGDON. 1 4

5 0 0

1 13 0

2nd From Home Sav. Acct. Lloyds. 5 0 0
Refund from Mess. 12 7

7 05 7

Carried fwd. 2 05 7

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CURRENT ACCOUNT

CARRIED FORWARD. - - - - - - - 2 5 7

[various monetary calculations]

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