PR Spitfires to Russia September 1942

[Brian]

Hi guys

As I understand it, at least three (or perhaps five) Spitfire PR IVs from 3PRU were sent to Russia as part of Operation Orator, the first two arriving on 1 September 1942.

I believe these were flown by F/Lt E.A. Fairhurst, F/O ?? Furniss, and P/O Gavin Walker, and were BP884, BP889, BP891.

BP889 with P/O Walker on board was apparently shot down by Gfr Kurt Dobner of II/JG5 and crashed near Lakselv in Northen Norway on 23 September.

I believe the Spitfires flew a total of 12 sorties before the detachment ended, and the remaining aircraft handed over to 118-ORAP for Russian use, but one source suggests these were AP132, BP891, and BP923. What happened to BP884, and when did the others arrive?

Any help appreciated. Incidentally, is there an ORB for 3 PRU's Russian Detachment?

Cheers
Brian