Supermarine Spitfire Mk.Vb W3244 of No.242 Sqn crashed on Bullhope Law near Gifford on the 5th May 1942

 

Philip Dorrien Seaborne Sergeant Pilot Killed

 

No.242 Squadron were stationed at RAF Turnhouse near Edinburgh, with a detached flight at RAF Drem in East Lothian. On the 5th May 1942 three aircraft took off on a none operational flight, which air station is not recorded in the Squadron, or Station, record books. After a short time two of the aircraft, having lost contact with W3244 landed at Drem where the loss of contact was reported. The wreckage of the aircraft was later found on the northern side of the Lammermuir Hills to the south of Gifford.

Crash site of Supermarine Spitfire Mk.Vb W3244 on Bullhope Law, Gifford, Lammermuir Hills
The wreckage of W3244 was gathered together and today lies in a small hollow on the heather clad hillside.
Crash site of Supermarine Spitfire Mk.Vb W3244 on BUllhope Law, Gifford, Lammermuir Hills
This photograph shows a slightly better view towards Hopes Reservoir from the crash site.
Wreckage at the crash site of Supermarine Spitfire Mk.Vb W3244 on Bullhope Law, Gifford, Lammermuir Hills.
Among the wreckage are some interesting items, including the very corroded remains of the throttle quadrant from the aircraft.