A poignant day of remembrance unfolded on Wednesday [5 November] as local veterans, families, and community representatives marked the 80th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force Lancaster crash on Beamsley Beacon.
The event was organised by FS Sam White of 1224 (Wharfedale)Squadron Air Training Corps, ably assisted by the Ilkley Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Club, whose members helped coordinate the memorial climb and church service that followed.
The morning began under bleak, misty skies as veterans and Canadian family members ascended Beamsley Beacon, led by the skirl of the pipes played by Allan MacKanzie. At the summit, where the memorial to the Lancaster crew stands, Revd Steven Proudlove led a short service of remembrance and wreath-laying.
As the clouds lifted and sunlight broke through, around twenty descendants of the eight Canadian airmen made the emotional journey to the nearby crash site, guided by local volunteers. The families reflected quietly among the heather where the aircraft came down on 5 November 1945, claiming the lives of four of the crew.
The commemorations then moved to Bolton Priory, where a full memorial service was held, again led by Revd Steven Proudlove and Flight Sergeant Sam White.
Among those in attendance were Chris Blundell, Deputy Lieutenant for North Yorkshire, and Robbie Moore MP, alongside representatives from RAF Leeming, and local veterans’ organisations.
The service included moving reflections from 429 Squadron, RCAF, and a reading of “High Flight” by John Gillespie Magee, followed by a Bible reading from John 15:9–17, read by Chris Blundell, Deputy Lieutenant for North Yorkshire.
The day culminated with a visit to Stonefall Cemetery, Harrogate to pay respects to the crew that did not survive and were interred there.
The day’s events reflected the enduring bond between Yorkshire communities and their Canadian wartime allies — a shared promise that the service and sacrifice of the Lancaster crew will never be forgotten.
FS Sam White said:
“It was a day of remembrance, respect, and connection across generations, To see the families of the fallen gathered together here in Yorkshire, where their loved ones rest, was both humbling and deeply moving.”
The event was supported by Ilkley Rotary Club and the Ilkley Community Transport and the staff at Bolton Priory.
Police appeal for information following another assault at Skipton Bus Station
Skipton welcomes new independent brewery
Skipton care home nominated for 'Independent Business of the Year'
Gargrave curry restaurant named 'Best in the North'
Pedestrian bridge at Bolton Abbey closed Wednesday for maintenance
Further strikes planned by Airedale NHS microbiology staff amid pay dispute
Skipton MP makes cheeseburgers on visit to local McDonald's
Quiz night hosted in Skipton to raise money for Airedale Hospital
Appeal launched after MBE medal stolen from founder of children's charity
Council appeal for help with riverbank erosion
Police crackdown amid fears of "nut jobs" riding dangerously on e-bikes and e-scooters
Dozens attend meeting amid anger over school transport policy change
New pizza restaurant and bar opens in Skipton
Embsay pub raise over £400 for children's charity
Silsden gym owner raises £7,370 for Breast Care Unit at Airedale Hospital
Reasons behind the inevitability of above-inflation council tax rise at North Yorkshire Council
Local estate agent celebrates 5 years of platinum rated service
Skipton Boat Trips win Business of the Year at Marine awards
Skipton boxing club organiser to walk 127 miles for sports charity
Share Skipton announce new opening date
