Halifax III LW573 at Marston Moor airfield.

In the early hours of 13th June 1945 this 1652 Heavy Conversion Unit aircraft was to have been flown on a basic circuits and landing training exercise at Marston Moor airfield. At 00.05hrs, on what would have been the pilot's first night flight on the Halifax type, the aircraft swung on take off. The pilot reduced power and applied the brakes but was unable to prevent the aircraft from overshooting. It came to rest with the starboard undercarriage collapsed having ran over a ditch. 1652 Heavy Conversion Unit ceased training flight on 14th June 1945 in preparation for the closing down eleven days later. This incident would therefore appear to be the last flying accident to occur to 1652 Heavy Conversion Unit.

Pilot - F/O Jack Hillyer Britten RAFVR (184703).

Six other crew - Names unknown.