David Ivor Evans – Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, 101 Squadron

Pilot Officer David Ivor Evans – Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, 101 Squadron

David Ivor Evans

Pilot Officer David Ivor Evans served with the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve during the Second World War and tragically lost his life on 20 September 1941 in an aircraft accident while returning from an operational mission.

Service and Aircraft Accident

The Raid on Ostend, 19–20 September 1941

RAF Oakington

On the night of 19–20 September 1941, No. 101 Squadron took part in a bombing raid on Ostend, a strategically important port on the Belgian coastline used by German forces for naval operations, ship repair, and support of U-boat activities in the North Sea and English Channel. Wellington bombers from the squadron departed RAF Oakington under cover of darkness, flying across the North Sea while maintaining strict radio silence. Navigating at low or medium altitude to avoid detection, crews had to contend with poor and unpredictable weather and the limitations of early wartime navigational equipment.

Ostend was heavily defended, with anti-aircraft guns and searchlights that frequently engaged incoming aircraft. Despite these dangers, the squadron pressed on, targeting docks, harbour facilities, and supporting infrastructure. After releasing their bombs, the aircraft turned for home, facing the difficult return journey across the sea in blackout conditions. It was while returning from this demanding and hazardous operation that the aircraft carrying Pilot Officer David Ivor Evans encountered worsening weather over England, ultimately contributing to the accident that claimed his life.

The Accident at Preston Deanery

During the return leg, the aircraft flew into poor visibility and deteriorating weather. While navigating in the darkness, the aircraft struck high ground near Preston Deanery, Northamptonshire. The crash resulted in the deaths of two crew members, including Pilot Officer Evans, while two others survived.
Accidents of this nature were not uncommon during the early years of the war, as aircrews faced demanding operations, unstable weather, and limited navigational equipment.

Early Life and Family

David was born in 1917 in Swansea, the son of William Evans and Harriet Maud Evans (née Hopkins), who were married in 1904.

1921 Census

At the time of the 1921 Census, the Evans family were living at 1 Burman Street, Swansea. David’s father, William, aged 53, was employed as a Locomotive Clerk, while his mother, Harriet, aged 45, managed the home. They had two sons: William Harold Evans, aged 16, who attended school, and David Ivor, then just three years old.

1939 Register

By the time of the 1939 Register, the family were still residing at 1 Burman Street. William had retired from his work as a railway clerk, and Harriet continued with household duties. David, then 22, was recorded as an Articled Pupil in Aeronautical Engineering, reflecting his early interest in flight and aircraft design. His elder brother, William Harold, worked as a Cartographer for the Admiralty.

No. 101 Squadron in 1941

In 1941, No. 101 Squadron served under RAF Bomber Command, operating initially from RAF West Raynham before relocating to RAF Oakington in Cambridgeshire. The squadron flew Vickers Wellington bombers on night operations over occupied Europe, carrying out raids against industrial targets, ports, and strategic enemy infrastructure. Missions frequently required long flights over the North Sea, often in poor weather and under blackout conditions, with crews relying on early navigational systems and skilled dead-reckoning. The squadron’s work formed part of the expanding strategic bombing campaign, and its aircrews faced increasing threats from enemy night-fighters and anti-aircraft defences. It was within this demanding operational environment that Pilot Officer David Ivor Evans undertook his final mission in September 1941.

The Vickers Wellington Bomber

The Vickers Wellington was one of the Royal Air Force’s principal medium bombers during the early years of the Second World War. Designed by Barnes Wallis, its innovative geodetic framework made the aircraft exceptionally strong, allowing it to absorb heavy damage and still remain airworthy—often saving the lives of its crews. Serving as the backbone of Bomber Command’s night offensive, the Wellington flew long, hazardous missions over occupied Europe. Even as larger four-engined aircraft began to enter service, the Wellington remained an essential workhorse. It was in one of these aircraft that Pilot Officer Evans carried out his final operation.

Military Service and Commemoration

South Wales Daily Post

The South Wales Daily Post also published a further article relating to the accident and his funeral.

David Ivor Evans
Oystermouth Cemetery
credit - findagrave

Pilot Officer David Ivor Evans was laid to rest at Oystermouth Cemetery, Swansea, where his grave is maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. He is remembered with honour by his family and by the communities of Swansea and Trebanos. His dedication and sacrifice reflect the bravery of the young airmen of Bomber Command during the most demanding years of the war.