Stoke Holy Cross Z.7304 Memorial
4.5 miles away
Norfolk
Hempnall Mosquito Memorial
Hempnall, Norfolk
Partial Record
Photographs
The Memorial
It is maintained by Hempnall Parish Council.
Type
Memorial plaque
Inscription
Could you help us fill in the inscription?
LocationApproximate Location
Hempnall, Norfolk, Norfolk
what3words: ///should.grin.fines
What Happened
24 Mosquitoes detailed to attack chemical works (
see note
) at Leverkusen with DZ587 taking off at 17:29 hrs. Reports state that the operation was a success with reports of fires and a large explosion at the works.
Details are vague regarding the crash, but it seems that on return from the operation they were flying on a single engine after damage during the operation. They were trying to make a landing at Hardwick but had to abort due to a lorry on the runway. The aircraft’s wing then dropped
Community Connection
Every memorial has a story — why it was built, who campaigned for it, and what it means to the local community. If you know the story behind this memorial, we would love to hear it.
Share this memorial's storyRemembrance
Do you know of any commemorative events or annual services held at this memorial? We would love to hear from local communities who remember.
Share remembrance informationAircraft & Operation Details
Aircraft Type
Mosquito
Serial Number
DZ587
Squadron
105 Squadron
Station
Marham
Date of Loss
1943-11-05
Crew
2 killed: Flt Lt. John Gordon, DFC and Flg Off. Ralph Gamble Hayes, DFC
Memorial Care
parish council
Organisation
Hempnall Parish Council
Local Contacts
These local organisations are connected to this memorial and may be able to help with information or visits.
Loddon Royal British Legionbritish legion
Local remembrance and memorial support
Hempnall Parish Councilparish council
Local authority responsible for memorial upkeep
Further Reading
Aircrew RememberedRetrieved 2026-03-24
Detailed page on Flt Lt John Gordon DFC and his navigator Flg Off Ralph Gamble Hayes DFC of 105 Squadron. On 5 November 1943, 24 Mosquitoes were detailed to attack chemical works at Leverkusen, with DZ587 (coded GB-B) taking off at 17:29. The aircraft was observed circling Hardwick Airfield throwing out distress flares before crashing between the airfield and Hempnall village.
What you'll find: The heroic story of Flt Lt John Gordon and Flg Off Ralph Gamble Hayes in their historic WWII mission.
Target was chemical works at LeverkusenAircraft code was GB-BTakeoff time 17:29Aircraft seen circling Hardwick Airfield firing distress flares before crashBoth crew held the DFC
IWM CollectionsRetrieved 2026-03-23
The Imperial War Museum holds photographic records of 105 Squadron Mosquito operations from Marham during 1942-1945, providing context for the unit's low-level precision bombing campaigns.
What you'll find: Explore historical photos and learn about 105 Squadron Mosquito operations at Marham (1942-1945).
IWM holds photographic records of 105 Squadron operations
Nearby Memorials
Sources
Aircrew Remembered (retrieved 2026-03-24)
IWM Collections (retrieved 2026-03-23)
Geograph Norfolk (website)
Credits & Acknowledgements
Record compiled by
Keith Binley
Last updated 2026-04-09
Do you have additional information, photographs, or corrections for this record? We welcome contributions from researchers, families, and local communities.
Suggest a correction or additionCan You Help Complete This Record?
This record for Hempnall Mosquito Memorial is partially complete. We’re looking for additional details such as crew information, photographs, narrative history, or source references.
Email admin@bombermemorial.co.uk or contribute directly via our GitHub repository