Hampden L4103 at Blaxton, Finningley.
On 7th December 1940 the crew on this aircraft were undertaking a night flying exercise when the aircraft was struck by lightning whilst in the
Finningley circuit. The lightning strike caused a propeller to become detached from the aircraft, this resulted in control being lost and the
aircraft crashed near Blaxton, Finningley killing two airmen on board. The pilot was on attachment from 50 Squadron.
Pilot - Sgt Joseph Donald Shilling RAFVR (741468), of Farnborough. Buried Farnborough Cemetery, Hampshire.
Wireless Operator / Air Gunner - Sgt John Thomson RAF (647064). Of ? Buried Finningley Churchyard Extension, Yorkshire.
Hampden L4103 was built to contract 549267/36 by Handley Page Ltd at Radlett and was awaiting collection in November 1939. It was delivered
to 61 Squadron at Hemswell on an unspecified date in early 1940. When newer models arrived on the scene it was transferred on an unspecified
date to 106 Squadron at Finningley for training duties. After the incident recorded above at Finningley Cat.W/FA damage was recorded
and the aircraft written off.