Hampden X2960 near Cantley, Finningley.
On 18th September 1940 this 106 Squadron aircraft took off at 10.55hrs with those on board detailed to undertake a cross country training flight. During the flight the aircraft suffered an engine failure and would not then maintain height, the crew attempted to force land in a small field at 11.40hrs the aircraft struck a hedge in the Bessacarr / Cantley area.
Pilot - P/O I H Grant.
? - Sgt Styles.
? - Sgt Carr.
? - Sgt Roberts.
The pilot may have Ian Hall Grant who received a commission on 29th November 1938 to the rank of P/O. He was posted to 106 Squadron from 14 OTU with effect from 15th September
1940 but if he was indeed Ian Hall Grant then his rank should probably have been higher two years after receiving his commission.
Hampden X2960 was built to contract B994449/39 by the English Electric Co.Ltd. at Samlesbury and was awaiting collection at the end of August 1940. It was allotted to 20 MU on 29th August 1940 and was received by them on 31st August 1940. It was then taken on charge by 106 Squadron
at Finningley on 7th September 1940. The brand new aircraft sustained Cat.W/FA damage near Cantley on 18th September 1940.