Beaufighter T4862 near Catfoss airfield.

On 10th April 1942 the pilot of this No.2 (Coastal) Operational Training Unit aircraft was flown on a test flight to check the oxygen system at height, while on the approach to land at Catfoss with the flaps and undercarriage already lowered the port engine cut out. The pilot applied more power to the starboard engine to attempt to maintain height but as he turned toward the runway the second engine then cut out. He opted to belly land the aircraft alongside Seaton Lane near his home base of Catfoss airfield but the aircraft was badly damaged. The crew escaped serious injury, the pilot's lack of experience was blamed for his wrong selection of the fuel tanks which starved the engines of fuel.

Beaufighter T4862 was built to contract B.41906/39 by the Fairey Aviation Co. Ltd. at Heaton Chapel, Stockport and was awaiting collection in September 1941. After a short period of MU storage and preparation it was taken on charge by 2 (C)OTU at Catfoss in late 1941. As a result of the crash on 10th April 1942 Cat.E/FA damage was recorded after assessment.

Pilot - P/O Sidney Valentine Ash RAFVR (106883). Injured.

Wireless Operator / Observer - Sgt Sydney Walker RAFVR (1056064). Injured.