GLADIATOR N2314 OF 615 SQD LOST 1st OCT 1939
 

Seeking information on Gladiator N2314 of 615 Sqd that flew into the ground at Holmwood Common Surrey whilst on night patrol. does anybody know the name of the pliot, his fate & the time of the incident?

many thanks in advance

Trevor Matthews

Re: GLADIATOR N2314 OF 615 SQD LOST 1st OCT 1939
 

It was Pilot Officer John Charles Mackenzie Hanbury 90893 and who was unfortunately killed. He was aged 30 and was buried at Hylands Park, Writtle. He was the husband of Felicity Hanbury, WAAF, who's name will be familiar to many but who later became Dame Felicity Peake. It is said that Susanah Yorke's portrayal of Section Officer Harvey in the film Battle of Britain was loosely based on her experiences at Biggin Hill when the station was bombed.