Funeral for WWII hero Freddie

The funeral takes place today of World War Two hero Freddie Johnson. The former rear gunner, from Tadcaster, was awarded six medals and shot down twice in the war.

The Calendar region got behind him after it was revealed he had been told he couldn't go to the unveiling of a Bomber Command memorial in London he'd helped raise money for.

After he appeared on the programme he was told he could go.

His daughter Mandy said he died at home, in line with the family’s wishes, having just returned from hospital.

He left his wife Jean, a daughter and two sons, Simon and Nick.

Freddie was a member of the Royal Air Forces Association and had also been a patron of the university cadets at RAF Church Fenton, and representatives of the association and RAF will attend the funeral and provide pall bearers.

It will take place at 1pm at St Mary’s Parish Church in Tadcaster, followed by cremation at Harrogate and a gathering at Tadcaster Social Club.