AN act of staggering heroism and commendable selflessness was honoured last week at former RAF Windrush.

A memorial plaque commemorating Sergeant Pilot Bruce Hancock was held the former RAF base, 75 years after the day he sacrificed himself for others during the Battle of Britain.

On Sunday, August 18, 1940, Sgt Hancock rammed his unarmed plane into a German bomber to defend a small Gloucestershire base, saving the lives of those stationed there.

The plaque honouring his death was thought to have been stolen this time last year, when it went missing from its place at the disused RAF base in Windrush. It was later discovered to have been removed by staff at nearby RAF Brize Norton as it was loose and at risk of being stolen or vandalised.

The re-dedication took place on Tuesday, August 18, at former RAF Windrush and was attended by over 200 people.

It was organised by the North Oxfordshire and Cotswolds branch of the Military Vehicle Trust (OXCOT) and members of the Hancock family travelled to attend, with the unveiling being done by Keith Hancock, a nephew of Sgt Hancock.

The Standards of local branches of The Royal Air Force Association and The Royal British Legion were mounted and an Honour Guard provided by members of 2120 Witney Squadron Air Training Corps.

Dedication and blessing of the plaque and memorial was conducted jointly by Reverend Mike Selwood, former vicar of the Windrush Parishes, and Reverend Squadron Leader Alisdair Nicoll, chaplain at RAF Brize Norton.

Personnel from RAF Brize Norton were also in attendance together with representatives from the Parish Councils of Windrush, Sherborne and Northleach.

Co-ordinator for the day, Bill King, was pleased to see so many people in attendance of the re-commemoration.

“The day went extremely well,” he said. “There was a very good turnout.

“Keith Hancock, nephew of SGT Bruce Hancock, said although he didn’t know his uncle, his family brought him up in the knowledge of the event.

“He was quite moved when they went to look at the role of people who had died at the RAF memorial.”

After the re-commemoration ceremony had finished, a surprise presentation of a painting of the moment Sgt Hancock sacrificed himself was made to Keith Hancock.

The painting, by Barry Walding, was commissioned by Allan White over 30 years ago but had not been seen by the family previously.

“When he knew the ceremony was taking place Allan got in touch,” said Mr King.

“It was a very nice moment; very moving.

“He [Keith Hancock] really thought it was absolutely fantastic.”