A BROMSGROVE man who flew Lancaster Bomber planes for the RAF during World War II has died at the age of 96.

John Quine leaves behind son Peter, 74, two grandchildren, Richard and Catherine, and four great-grandchildren, Caitlin, Niamh, Evie and Jack.

He was born in Wales but grew up in Bromsgrove, where he lived for the majority of his life - military service apart - with his wife Barbara, whom he was married to for more than 60 years before her death in 2006.

The couple lived in Barnt Green then Inkberrow before settling down in Lickey Hills.

John attended Bromsgrove County High School until he was 16, then left to become a pilot in 1939, moving to Nottingham before undergoing training in both Canada and the USA.

During the war, he flew in 22 operational missions and his service to the military was marked at his funeral, at which the Royal British Legion and the Royal Air Force Association provided standard bearers and the Last Post was played.

Son Peter, who, like his father, played for Barnt Green Cricket Club, was touched by the attendance of countless organisations at the funeral.

Peter said: "It suddenly made me realise just how many things dad was involved in.

"It took me aback really but it just showed what a full life he lived. 

"Everyone commented on what a gentleman he was."

Mr Quine's death was not related to coronavirus.