De Havilland DH-89A Dragon Rapide G-AIWZ near Welton.

All three occupants of this aeroplane worked for the Blackburn and General Aircraft Ltd, based at Brough. The aircraft was owned by the North Sea Air Transport Ltd, based at Brough and whom Blackburns had strong links to. During the evening of 30th July 1949 they were on a flight returning to Brough from West Hartlepool following a buisness trip and by the late evening it reached the general area above Brough airfield. At around 22.45hrs it was heard circling with possibly an engine failing, it then struck the top branches of a tree around 200 yards from Brough airfield and crashed into a barley field. Half an hour later the least seriously injured men was found wandering dazed on a lane and was taken to the nearest building, a railway signal box, for assistance. Sadly the pilot was killed instantly. Both injured passengers were taken to Hull Royal Infirmary but one died the following day of injuries sustained. The crash location was described as being near Welton Crossroads, this would appear to have been in a field south of Welton and just east of the airfield at Brough, it may well now be built over. Both men who died were married and both had two young children.

The National Archives Board of Trade report "BT217/2593" will hold more information but I have yet to view the file.

Pilot - Captain Patrick James Winch, aged 32. Buried Elloughton (St.Mary) Churchyard, Yorkshire.

Passenger - Mr Ivor Wrigglesworth, aged 38. Died of injuries. Burial location unknown.

Passenger - Mr William Locke. Seriously injured.