Funeral of black RAF pilot who fought in Second World War attracts hundreds

Hundreds of mourners have gathered to pay their respects at the funeral of one of the longest-surviving black RAF pilots to have fought in the Second World War.

Flight Sergeant Peter Brown died aged 96 while alone at his home in Maida Vale, west London, in December last year.

His funeral service was held today at the St Clement Danes Church on The Strand, the central church of the RAF, which can seat 600 mourners.

Mr Brown was initially expected to have a low-key funeral at a 140-capacity chapel in Mortlake, southwest London, in March, but a council appeal to trace his relatives caught the attention of historians, military researchers, genealogists, community groups and the media.

His relative Brooke Alexander travelled more than 4,000 miles from Jamaica to attend the funeral.

Representatives from Caribbean community organisations and those who helped trace his family were also in attendance, along with celebrities including Batman Begins actor Colin McFarlane and Top Boy star Michael Ward.

Paying tribute to the veteran, Trevor Michael Georges, who plays Ed Bailey in Coronation Street, said: “When I heard about Peter, I thought it was a very sad situation and I had to come to pay my respects.

“As a youth, I was actually going to join the RAF. I was in the cadet force. But at the last minute, for various reasons, I changed my mind and decided to become an actor.

“Around 6,000 Caribbeans joined in the war effort. In a situation where every little bit helps, he made a big contribution.”

Born in Jamaica in 1926, Mr Brown was enlisted in the RAF Volunteer Reserve in September 1943 and became one of the so-called “Pilots of the Caribbean”, carrying out missions as a radio operator and gunner.

He is believed to be one of, if not the last, among this group to have died.

Mr Brown was enlisted in the RAF after the war ended and worked as a signaller before joining civilian life.

Westminster City Council leader Adam Hug said: “The national response to Peter Brown’s story has been overwhelming.

“The details of his life and subsequent search for relatives have truly captured the public imagination and moved people around the world.

“Our priority has always been to ensure Mr Brown receives a fitting, dignified send-off which allows those wishing to pay their respects the opportunity to do so.

“We are grateful to the RAF who have stepped in and provided a perfect venue to reflect Peter’s military service.

“We will continue to work with the RAF, community groups and well-wishers to ensure the service represents the many aspects of Mr Brown’s life.”

An RAF spokesperson said: “Flight Sergeant Brown is an example of the selfless contribution of all Commonwealth personnel who have served throughout the RAF’s history.

“We should never forget their sacrifices which have defended our freedom and kept us safe.”

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