MP salutes Lancaster bomber hero

Following the marking of Remembrance Sunday, Macclesfield MP David Rutley met with a World War II Lancaster Bomber crew member, at his home in Higher Poynton, to personally thank him for his bravery in serving his country.

Ken Oates served as an armourer for the Royal Air Force, flying in Lancaster Bombers, which were assembled nearby in Woodford. When taking part in a bombing raid to Hamm in Germany in 1944, his aircraft was attacked by three German fighter planes on the return flight, and he was badly injured. Ken was put in the gun turret at the back of the plane. The pilot managed to get back to England, but got lost over Kent, and crash landed near Deal. On impact, the turret came off the plane with Ken still in it. Sadly, the other seven crew members lost their lives in the crash.

Having been found, Ken spent a long time in hospital recovering from the injuries which were sustained, having been shot in the leg, arm and head. The crash left him without sight in his left eye, and visually impaired in his right eye.

Despite this, Ken went on to work for local councils as a joiner for many years. He is happily married to his wife of 68 years, Mary, and they are the proud parents of two daughters.

Speaking following the meeting, David said, “It was an honour to meet Mr Oates and hear his incredible story. It is always inspiring to hear about the individual acts of heroism from our veterans, at this time of year. We should always remember and appreciate the magnitude of the contribution of those who fought for our freedom today.”