Little is known about John’s early life except that he was born in Burnley and that his mother’s maiden name was Haye., John joined the R.A.F. and in June 1941 and was posted to Florida to train. His first flight was somewhat of a disaster as he hit a chimney and ended up in hospital. After he recovered, he returned to flying and gained his wings in May 1942. In 1944 he was mentioned in a despatches for distinguished service. Later that year he was seconded to B.O.A.C, now British Airways.
Also in 1944 John married Mary Crossley (1923-2004) on the 10th of June. They had four children: Ann later Mrs. Gresswell, Michael, Graham and David. They lived at 219 London Road.
After the war he continued to fly for B.O.A.C. as a flight crew executive. In the 1960s he was the first captain to fly the VC10 air liner. In 1973 he took a ground appointment and three years later resigned from the company.
In addition to his work with the Town Council, John was a Justice of the Peace and an active member of a number of community groups including chairman of the youth and community committee and member of the Wokingham Town Twinning Association
John and Mary later moved to Murdoch Road where he died on Friday, November 10th aged 86. His funeral was held on Friday 24th November at Easthampstead Crematorium.
Tattershall Close off Rances Lane was named in his memory.
Wokingham Town Museum Unique Identifier: WTH0126