Bomber Command hero dies aged 91

Francis Bratby in June 2012

AN OLDHAM war hero who lied about his age so he could join the RAF and do his bit for the war effort has passed away aged 91.

Francis Bratby of Garden Suburb passed away on February 21. The inspirational veteran joined the RAF when he was just 17 by lying about his age and served with Bomber Command.

Mr Bratby was one of the remaining members of World War Two Bomber Command who received a medal in 2012 to honour their bravery.

After the war, Mr Bratby married his first wife Margaret, who died in 1985. The couple moved from Salford to Garden Suburb where they lived happily together until Margaret’s death.

They had two daughters, Jennifer and Gillian, and four grandchildren.

Mr Bratby was an Oldham policeman and Margaret a well-known headteacher at Holy Rosary School.

Mr Bratby married again 12 years ago, to Winifred.

In his 80s the couple travelled to the USA, South Africa and Canada.

His Requiem Mass will be at Holy Family Church, Roman Road, Limeside at noon on March 13 followed by committal at Hollinwood Crematorium.