THE family of an WW11 airman who was killed when his plane ploughed into a field near Yate are appealing for information. 

Flying Officer John MacPhee Darroch was tragically killed in a crash between two Tiger Moth planes, which collided over Nibley Yate on June 25, 1934.

Three of the four crew members died in the incident, while one parachuted to safety.

"Our grandfather crashed into a farm field just 400 yards from Yate railway station, when his aircraft was engulfed in flames," said grandson Barry Plant. 

"Although desperate attempts were made to free John from the burning wreck, he died from multiple trauma and extensive burns which were so severe he was no longer recognisable."

Barry is keen to find out where his grandfather was buried and also whether a memorial service was held for him and the other airmen.

"I, along with other members of John's family, have tried every avenue we can think of to discover if an RAF memorial service was held and, more importantly, where his remains were interred so that we can pay our respects to this man, who not only served within the RAF but also the Manchester machine gun regiment in World War One.

"I am hoping that there may be Gazette readers who learned of this incident from past relatives, which may produce information on a memorial service being held and whether John was buried locally. 

"We have been in touch with cemeteries near to John's previous residence in Manchester and also those close to his birth place in south London, but no records of John have been found. 

"The RAF records do not cover resting places for lost airmen only the air accident report, which I have copies of. 

"You are our last hope of ever finding Granddad's resting place."

Anyone with information about where Flying Officer John MacPhee Darroch was interred, and a memorial service held in his honour, is asked to email: james.felton@newsquest.co.uk