THE 60th anniversary of the death of Porthleven war hero Wing Commander Guy Gibson VC is due to be commemorated next weekend.
The Helston branch of the Royal Air Forces Association is holding a special service in Porthleven Cemetery on Sunday, September 19 - the date when, back in 1944, Wing Commander Gibson and his then navigator, Jim Warwick, died when their Mosquito crashed near the village of Steenbergen in Holland.
Their deaths are commemorated each year in Holland, and at a special memorial tablet in Porthleven Cemetery - a tradition introduced by local resident Michael Gale, a former leader of Porthleven council.
Born in India, Guy Gibson spent his childhood holidays in Cornwall and lived for a time in Porthleven. His wartime exploits as leader of the celebrated Dambusters earned him a number of awards, including the coveted Victoria Cross.
Members of Helston RAFA are expecting a large turnout for the anniversary service, which will get under way at 2pm and will be led by the Rev Colin Short, from Porthleven.
The Royal British Legion standard will be present and the honour guard from No 3 Helston Squadron Air Cadets will escort the Helston RAFA standard. Wreaths and flowers will be placed on the memorial following the service.
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