TWO authors from South Zeal are appealing for information concerning a tragic accident of an RAF aircraft during the second world war. The request comes following two books written by husband and wife team on the history of their village, South Zeal, and another on the history of Okehampton, attracted correspondence from all over the world. Roy and Ursula Radford said since the books have been published they had received more information on the village and town or had questions from readers worldwide. Ursula said: ?Usually it is from someone who has found that they were previously unaware of or learn that they have family connections with the area or learn that a relative had wartime connections with the area serving in the forces stationed here or was evacuated here as a child.? The couple are now trying to assist a UK family that bought a book and were interested in a piece from a section called ?In Service and in Remembrance?. On April 4, 1941, a Hampden AD748 of 83 Squadron based at Scampton, Lincolnshire, crashed on Hangingstone Hill at 2am in bad weather conditions while returning from mine-laying operations in the Brest area. The crew were killed. ?A farmer high on the moor heard the crash but thought it was thunder. He found the wreckage two days later.? Roy and Ursula believe if the farmer can be identified it may be possible that relatives of his may recall being told about the tragic event and be able to add detail that would be welcomed by the family of one of the RAF officers who died. Ursula said: ?Other people in the area may also have information about this particular crash that they could share with relatives of that officer.? Anyone who has any information is asked to contact Roy and Ursula at Buttercup Cottage, South Zeal on 01837 840547.
