Remains of Great Ayton pilot discovered after 86 years

Squadron leader George Morley Fidler was killed at just 27-years-old when his Hawker Hurricane was brought down over France on 19 May 1940. 

A body believed to be that of the pilot was buried years ago - but in 2016 evidence came to light that his remains had not been laid to rest there. 

Excavation workers expanding a canal in Oisy-le-Verger, in northern France, recently uncovered the remains of a pilot in a Hurricane still sitting in the seat. 

After DNA testing, Ministry of Defence war detectives confirmed the body is believed to be Fidler. 

War detective Nicola Nash said: “Sadly, in 2016 we undedicated the grave of airman Squadron Leader George Morley Fidler after evidence came to light that his remains were not laid to rest there.

“He was then added to the names of the missing, which allowed him to become a candidate in the unlikely event remains were recovered. 

“Remarkably, remains believed to be his were recently found, and DNA testing ruled out the only other candidates. 

“This will now allow him to be buried in a grave that correctly bears his name.”

Fidler, who was known as Morley, joined the RAF in 1934 and served as a pilot in the 607 Squadron, the Great Ayton History Society said. He gained his wings in June 1935. 

He was shot down patrolling the skies above Cambrai after encountering a German Dornier bomber with an escort of Messerschmitts during the Second World War.

The body believed to be that of Fidler was hastily buried, the society said, and around a year later, this man's body was placed in a cemetery at Bachy, France.

This grave was undedicated in 2016 after new evidence came to light.

The Ministry of Defence said that, following the recent discovery in Oisy-le-Verger, a burial service will be held for Fidler at London Cemetery and Extension, Longueval, France.

The Great Ayton History Society said: “Following the recent discovery in Oisy-le-Verger, France, where engineers uncovered the remains of Squadron Leader George Morley Fidler - found seated in the cockpit of his Hawker Hurricane almost 86 years after being shot down - the story of this young man from Great Ayton has taken on renewed significance.

“George, just 27 years old, was the son of George and Christiana Fidler and served as a pilot with 607 Squadron. 

“His aircraft, Hurricane P3535, was brought down by a Messerschmitt Bf 109 over France on 19 May 1940, where it buried itself in the ground with George still inside.

“In light of this remarkable discovery, the Great Ayton History Society will be updating George’s story as part of its annual Remembrance Day memorial plaques at Christ Church."