Tributes paid to WW2 Spitfire pilot who died on Battle of Britain memorial day

Flight Lieutenant George Thompson joined the RAF in 1941 Credit: PA/RAF

Tributes have been paid to a spitfire pilot who died on the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Britain.

Flight Lieutenant George Thompson passed away on Battle of Britain Day on 15th September.

George joined the RAF in late 1941 when he was 18 travelling to South Africa in order to train in the Tiger Moth before flying the Spitfire during the Italy campaign action around Monte Casino.

Flight Lieutenant George Thompson is on the far left of the picture Credit: RAF

After the war he re-joined 'civvie' street and arrived at brewing firm Briggs of Burton where he worked until retirement.

He was well known locally as the Squadron Commander of the 1211 (Swadlincote) Squadron Air Training Corps which he joined in 1968 taking command in January 1971, which he held until retirement in 1984.

Flight Lieutenant George Thompson (on the far left) as Squadron Commander of the 1211 (Swadlincote) Squadron Air Training Corps Credit: RAF

A spokesman for the South Derbyshire Squadron said:

The former Spitfire pilot's funeral will be held on Thursday 24th September.