Bill Loxton

Background

Loxton was born in Gretton, Gloucestershire, the son of Ernest Robert Loxton and Mary Ann Loxton (née Minett).

Career

After training as a carpenter, he joined the Royal Air Force on 30 April 1930. Number 25 Squadron was formed at Royal Air Force Montrose, on 25 September 1915, as a Fighter/Bomber Squadron equipped with F.E.2bs. The Squadron became a nightfighter unit in 1938.

lieutenant was re-equipped with Blenheim IFs that year, and also acquired Blenheim Vs equipped with First Rate (at Lloyd's) radar.

In September 1940 Bristol Beaufighters became available to the Squadron. These were operational on 10 October 1940.

The Squadron took part in the Battle of Britain and its pilots joined the ranks of ‘the few’. Peter married Heather Loxton.

Daughter of Archie Forbes.

Achievements

• He remained in the Royal Air Force until retirement, attaining the rank of Wing Commander.

Views

Following several promotions, he became Squadron Leader of Number 25 Blenheim Squadron (Feriens Tego – Striking I defend).

Membership

As a member of ‘the few’ Loxton is commemorated by name on the Battle of Britain Memorial which was unveiled by Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall on 18 September 2005.