Tributes paid to Battle of Britain hero

TRIBUTES have been paid to one of the last surviving Battle of Britain veterans, who has died aged 97.

Flight Lieutenant William “Bob” Hughes was an air gunner flying in Bristol Blenheims with 23 Squadron in the Second World War.

He completed two tours of duty and was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross for gallantry. There are now only seven remaining members of “The Few” who fought in the Battle of Britain.

Flt Lt Hughes was born in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, in 1921 before moving to Northampton aged five. He joined the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve in 1939 at 18. A year later he joined 23 Squadron at RAF Wittering in West Sussex. He was posted to Malta in 1941 with 148 Squadron then to 70 Squadron in Egypt. He later became a flying instructor.

Group Captain Patrick Tootal OBE, at the Battle of Britain Fighter Association, said: “He was a delightful man and very unassuming for a man with his war record.” David Brocklehurst MBE chairman at the Kent Battle of Britain Museum, said: “He should be remembered for his bravery.

“Many of them said they were not heroes, just doing their duty, but we see them all as heroes. It’s important we carry on their legacy as there will be a time when they will no longer be able to do so.” Flt Lt Hughes died on December 3. Mon-Thurs 8.30am-7pm, Fri till 5pm, Sat 9am-3pm