1st October 2026 Update from Mark Rankind regarding Mosquito HK304.
Mark contacted the Society recently with an update:
I thought I’d give you a little update – yes, the story continues !! Road Naming The field (Steppingley Road Field) where the Airmen were lost in 1945 is currently being developed by Persimmon homes and is due to be complete within the next 3 years. I visited the show home on Saturday, which was adorned with references to DeHavilland and the Mosquito, it was lovely to see. I have named the roads and they are the following. I suggested the design of the DeHavilland road sign, which I think is unique for its type in the UK, which has been taken on board and being used. De Havilland Way Bonnewitt Grove (Pilot) Muncaster Gardens (Navigator) Sismore Mead (RAFs most famous WW2 Navigator whose daughter unveiled the memorial in 2021) FYI Should there be a road naming ceremony, I’m forever hopeful we will have relatives of people like Ted Sismore attend along with those connected with De Havilland, I am also trying for a flypast when the ceremony takes place. Raymond Binamee never got back to my emails and requests I don’t know if he is still with us now, but I tried and tried! Community champions Grant I have also applied for a community champions grant of at least £6,000 to further improve the Rufus Centre Memorial garden which I think has a very good chance of success. I will likely find out this week. Pictures of the memorial and garden as it is now can be found here would be nice to have a picture of the commemorative badges alongside the drawing of HK304 they have helped dozens of charities and raised thousands of pounds. (picture enclosed) www.warmemorialsonline.org.uk/memorial Remembrance Sunday Morning I lead a small dedication remembering the two airmen, with wreaths being laid (picture enclosed) Take care, Mark.