Allied – Hurricane P3164

During World War II, Squadron Leader J. Peel of the 145th Fighter Squadron was one of the highest-ranking pilots to crash land on the island with his Hurricane.After helping to intercept one of the largest bomber raids of the war, destined for Weymouth and Portland, the Hurricane was severely damaged. There were a total of 65 ME BF110s and 30 Me 109s escorting a total of 56 Junkers Ju88s and 25 Heinkel He111s.

Peel piloted his damaged plane to a safe crash landing within yards from Mottistone Manor; he escaped with only minor injuries and was treated to a well earned hard drink by Lord Mottistone, as is his tradition.

Note: All images are merely representative of the aircraft and not specific.

• Wight Air Wrecks – A T Gilliam ISBN 0-7524-2376-2
• Battle in the Skies – H J Leal (IWCP)