Identity of Beaufort damaged in intruder attack 24.10.1940 21.15 hrs?

[Theo Boiten]

Dear all,

Who can help me with details on the identity of a Beaufort that was attacked and damaged in an intruder attack over Docking/Norfolk on the evening of the 24th October 1940 at 21.15 hrs?

Cheers and thanks, Theo

[Nick Hector]

Hi Theo,

Simon Parry's book on Intruders over England mentions a Beaufort of an unspecified unit that suffered a holed fuel tank, crew uninjured
and Blenheim P4858 of 17 OTU, crew uninjured

[Theo Boiten]

Thanks for that Nick -I have Simon Parry's book Intruders over Britain, but would like to have additional details on this incident, especially the unit and serial number of the Beaufort.

Cheers, Theo

[rafcommands]

Hi Theo,

Both attacks happened over Docking in quick succession.

Blenheim Z of C Squadron No.17 OTU attacked over Docking by He.111 at 21.30hrs 24th.
Hydraulic system and port petrol tank severely damaged and set on fire. A/c crash landed on satellite. Damage estimated considerable. A/G reports turret gun not serviceable before being attacked. Crew unhurt and at Bircham Newton.

Air Raid Bircham Newton. One Beaufort OTU attacked from Silloth to Birchan Newton over satellite, Docking was fired at by E/A type unknown at 21:15 24/10/40 but believed to be He.111. Cannon shot through petrol tank further damage yet unknown. No casualties to crew.

RAF Station Bircham Newton ORB.

Give me a moment and I'll see what Silloth has.

Nothing in No.1 OTU but the diary has only who met the OC and a passing mention of the bombing attack the day before. Nothing on any aircraft movements.

Ross

[Theo Boiten]

Hi Ross,

Many thanks for these interesting and elaborate details -both aircraft were, in fact, claimed 'shot down in flames' by an intruder.. I'll give the whole story in the NJWD 2nd ed.

Cheers, Theo