Spitfire LF.Vb BL666 near Catfoss airfield.

On 1st October 1945 this Central Gunnery School aircraft suffered an engine coolant leak during a flight which resulted in the engine then failing soon after taking off. The pilot attempted to return to Catfoss airfield could not maintain height. A forced landing was made in a field just east of the airfield with the wheels up at 11.35hrs resulting in damage to the aircraft and minor injuries to the pilot. The damage was deemed to be severe enough not to warrant a repair.

Pilot - F/O Frederick Harold Charlie Wheatcroft RAFVR (185732). Minor injuries.