Several large airframe components relating to Handley Page Hampden L4203 that had been stolen from our Chairman’s museum at Booker back in 1994 have now been tracked down and returned to the society. These parts were recovered during a detailed excavation of the crash site of L4203 that took place at Grange Farm, Widmer End, Buckinghamshire between October 1981 and May 1982
We extend our thanks and gratitude to those with a true interest in our remembrance and preservation activities, who brought to our attention that these items were being shown on social media which led us to their whereabouts. We would also like to thank P.C. Charles Young of the Thames Valley Police who investigated the reports on our behalf, and insured that the items were secured in Police custody. These parts are now back safely in the societies collection.
Hampden L4203 and crew from No. 185 Squadron were en-route from Cottesmore to Heston. During the flight the aircraft encountered bad weather with poor visibility. Pilot lost control and aircraft crashed near Grange Farm, Widmer End, Buckinghamshire, with the tragic loss of all four crew on board.
Gallery photo (1): Some of the parts returned can be seen in this photo of the display at The Booker Aircraft Museum in 1984.
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