Moggy – I agree, given the options, Pembrey does seem to be the best bet… but it could be anywhere. Hopefully when I can get a look at the original, the definition will be better and I’ll be able to confirm if that is the sea in the background; and with any luck that aircraft will be a bit clearer as well.

galdri – Interesting thought; that would certainly tie in with Nick’s last post. The more I look at it, the more it seems to morph into different shapes! I wondered about the main gear though, they seem to be either splayed out or angled forward – it’s difficult to tell from the camera angle. As I said above, hopefully the original will be clearer.

Nick – Thanks for that info. Yes, it is treasured, particularly as it’s the only photograph we have of him in the RAF. Yes, they look very fresh faced don’t they (apart from the one on the end, like you mentioned!) my uncle was only 19 when he was lost.

Thanks again chaps,

Dean.

Denis & Nick – Thanks for the information; I wondered what the flashes on the caps were. After I posted the thread I had another look at his service record, which I obtained from RAF Innsworth. On it is a list of units, so I’ll scan the relevant section and post it on here tonight. Nick, now you’ve mentioned it, it does look like the sea in the background. I thought it was all fields, disappearing up to the horizon, but I think you’re right. It’s frustrating, but there’s just not quite enough clarity to make out the aircraft. I think there’s some dihedral there, which made me think Spit rather than Hurricane, and maybe there’s the starboard wing of another aircraft, just behind the person on the left. If I have time this weekend I’ll get hold of the original from my parents and try a higher resolution scan.

Thanks again,

Dean.