80th anniversary event at West Smethwick Park to remember WWII heroes
23 July 2024
Residents and media are invited to a memorial
service and parade starting from West Smethwick Park Pavilion at 10:30am on Sunday 28 July.
The service, which is organised by the Friends of West Smethwick Park commemorates a plane crash 80 years ago this week in 1944 and celebrates the life and
heroism of those involved.
Flight Sergeants Allan Charlie Cox and Gordon Preston heroically attempted to avoid children playing on the cricket pitch as they tried to land safely in West Smethwick Park. Unfortunately, the resulting crash killed both RAF pilots on board.
Tragically, Flight Sergeant Cox died just yards from his home. His mother saw the plane overhead from her kitchen window in Ernest Road which is just around the corner from the park.
For anyone who wishes to show a mark of respect, the parade will be starting from West Smethwick Park Pavilion at 10:30am on Sunday 28 July. The Mayor of Sandwell, Councillor Syeda Khatun MBE, will be present along with the Leader of Sandwell Council, Councillor Kerrie Carmichael and several other Cabinet Members and ward councillors.
The Mayor of Sandwell, Councillor Syeda Khatun MBE, said:
“Although many years have passed since this tragic accident, it is important that we remember the sacrifice these men made. Not only did their actions save the lives of those children playing in the park, they contributed to ensuring the rights and freedoms we all enjoy today.”
