A war hero who was honoured by the Royal Air Force after surviving 30 bombing raids during the Second World War has died at the age of 93.
Harry Clark Darnton joined the RAF at the age of 21 and quickly became a key member of his squadron.
Born in Stockton-on-Tees in 1922, Mr Darnton moved to Dundee after marrying Norma.
The RAF pilot was granted exemption from taking part in further air raids after clocking up a remarkable record of returning from as many as 30 raids on German targets.
Mr Darnton was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross award.
After leaving the RAF he became a sales development manager with Heinz.
Norman Robertson, a long-term friend of Mr Darnton, spoke to The Courier and paid tribute to the 93-year-old.
He said: “Harry was a very pleasant and sociable man. He had great successes in the air force, but was never at all boastful.
“He was proud of what he achieved, but never went on about it.
“We met through business and became close friends. We always got on very well.
“The remarkable thing about Harry was his record with the RAF.
“He also survived two crash landings in his Lancaster bomber on his way back from Germany.
“There weren’t many people who have done all of that. I think he had nine lives.
“After Harry retired from Heinz he and Norma took a keen interest in animals, particularly dogs.
“Harry was such a colourful and popular character.
“He had a good innings and it was a pleasure to have known him.”
He is survived by his wife Norma.
Mr Darnton’s funeral took place last week at Dundee Crematorium.