Archbishop dedicates memorial sculpture at RAF Lissett Aerodrome

Dedication of Memorial at RAF Lissett

During the conflict, thousands of aircraft took off from the airstrip to take part in bombing raids across occupied Europe. However, 851 members of the 158 Squadron based at the site never returned from their operations.

Dr Sentamu dedicated the memorial sculpture, designed by Beverley artist Peter Naylor, to serve as a permanent reminder of their brave actions. The tribute is in the form of seven airmen and inscribed with the names of those who died. Bluey Mottershead, chairman of the 158 Squadron Association, will also deliver a speech at the dedication of the memorial.

Blessing of the RAF Lissett Memorial

The 158 Squadron Association was formed in 1948 and still has more than 400 members worldwide. Veterans from as far afield as Australia and Canada will attend the memorial service, which will also include a fly-past by an RAF Lancaster Bomber and a poppy-drop over the site.

Bluey Mottershead, Chairman of 158 Squadron Association and the Archbishop of York

Dr Sentamu said: "The memorial sculpture is a great tribute to those brave servicemen and women who gave their lives in the name of freedom during the Second World War. It's a great honour for me to have met some of the veterans who served at Lissett Aerodrome and to have taken part in the dedication ceremony."

The aerodrome was brought into service in 1943 and was operational until 1946. On any given day, there were 20 Handley Page Halifax bombers on standby. The memorial will stand as part of a wind farm at the aerodrome.