Spitfire R6720 damaged in the air, landed at Church Fenton airfield.
During the afternoon of 21st July 1843 this 288 Squadron aircraft was flown on an army co-operation exercise with and over the gun and searchlight site of No.31 Anti Aircraft Brigade in the Hatfield area. During the exercise the Spitfire flew over those on the ground and explosive charges on the ground were used to simulate gas bombs being dropped. Unfortunately the explosions caused stones to fly into the air and strike the aircraft, which was flying at over 300 feet above the ground. Despite the damage the pilot returned to Church Fenton airfield and landed normally. It was later stated that the army should either reduce the explosive charge in their mock bombs or instruct the aircraft to fly at a greater height.
Pilot - P/O W H Griffin RCAF (J/17420).