Acknowledgements

I am greatly indebted to my good friend Don McClen for encouraging me to write this book and for continuing to do so after he had ploughed through my first draft. His candid criticisms and helpful suggestions provided the essential catalysts for its successful completion.

I should also like to record and acknowledge the considerable help I have had in quite a variety of ways, from the confirmation of some of my hazy recollections, to the provision of facts, the sourcing of photographs, and the drawing of maps. The following acquaintances and friends all have my gratitude:

Hugh Alexander, National Archives, Kew

Peter Biddiscombe, old pal on 247 Squadron

Richard Calvert, friend and former squadron commander

Sebastian Cox, Head of Historical Branch (RAF)

Bill Duffin Hon Sec of the Independent Researchers’ Association

Paul Jackson FRAeS, Editor in Chief, Jane’s All the World’s Aircraft

Norman Roberson, Honorary Secretary, 20 Squadron Association

Henry Roberts, amateur cartographer

Mick Rogers, Honorary Secretary 247 Squadron Association

Stewart Scott, author

Jerry Seavers, friend since 20 Squadron days

Eunice Wilson Archivist to 247 (F) Squadron Association