Brotchie, Sqn. Ldr. George Francis, 111 Squadron, Royal Air Force

At the time of George’s death, his family were living in Dundee, but they had previously lived in the lower flat of 1 Station Brae, Newport. while living there he had been a member of the Newport Motorcycle Club. He had trained as a motor engineer with St Roques Motor Company in Dundee. He had joined the RAF in 1937 and served in France. His was the face on official RAF posters.

His squadron took part in the Battle of Britain and later George was involved in numerous operations over Europe. During one operation his plane was attacked by a German aircraft and the engine and plane were badly damaged, and he himself was shot in the knee. Despite these difficulties he was able to nurse his plane back to base. Such was the damage to his aircraft that the German pilot claimed to have shot it down.

In December 1941 George was promoted to Squadron Leader of 73 Squadron. On 14th March 1942 he was killed in a tragic accident. He was leading a training session at RAF Debden in Essex when another plane crashed into his on the runway. In the ensuing fire George was killed instantly.

He died at the age of 25, and his name is recorded on a memorial in Dundee Crematorium. He is also on the Trinity Church memorial plaque, now in Newport-on-Tay Church.

Poppy made by Jessica, Newport School.