218 Squadron Blenheim Loss 1940

[Steve Smith]

Gents,

Hoping that details are available on the loss of a Bristol Blenheim Mk.IV of No.218 Squadron on 23rd August 1940 while attacking Bruges Aerodrome. Aloft at 11:35hrs the crew skippered by Squadron Leader Charles House FTR.

Details on this loss are uncertain, research has shown that the crew were shot down near Guines, 10 miles south east of Calais, the crash site has since been confirmed, the Blenheim crashed on a farm between Hames-Boucres, close to the Calais to Bolougne railway. Squadron Leader Charles House was buried in the local Cemetery at Guines, the crew’s observer, Sergeant Percy Lefevre was buried in St.Tricat Churchyard. The survivor, Sergeant Howard spent the remainder of the war as a Prisoner of War. What makes this loss intriguing is that at 14.41 hrs the crew requested a fix, it was plotted near the south coast near Dungeness. Why the crew were so far south of track is unknown.

Was there any claim for a Blenheim in this area during this period or reports of any encounters?

Any help appreciated.

Regards

Steve

[robert]

Hi,

I think that due to poor weather crew diverted and was looking for an alternative target. Shot down by elements of Flakregiment 201 and crashed near Guines 10 km S of Calais.

Regards

Robert

[Steve Smith]

Hi Robert,

I would tend to agree with the weather and searching for a alternative target, can you expand on cause of loss to flak, what is the source to this claim.

Regards

Steve