A south Shropshire war veteran has written a book of his experiences as a Spitfire pilot and donated the proceeds to a worthy cause.
Cleobury Mortimer resident Peter Cowin, 89, wanted his book, Half Wing to Full Wing, Memoirs of a Spitfire Pilot 1939-1945, to help others, so he has given funds to a project that aids Africa’s orphaned teenage girls.
The project is the brainchild of Abberley woman Kath Roper who has been working for the Voluntary Service Overseas for two years in Africa.
Mr Cowin said he was delighted to support Kath’s project, after she set up the safe accommodation for young orphan girls in Ethiopia. During her time there, she visited the capital Addis Ababa, and said she was disturbed to find the teenagers sleeping rough on the streets. She has also purchased some old sewing machines in order to train the girls with a skill.
Mr Cowin’s new book, gives a frank and lively account of the war years, on his journey from a fresh-faced volunteer reserve gunner to experienced Spitfire pilot.
His story tells of his postings from Prestwick to Medicine Hat, Canada, the fall of France, and describes a few lucky escapes. Mr Cowin said: “I had no great heroics to report. Just a wish to serve my country as best as we could under the circumstances.”
His wartime wedding to wife Vee, in Kidderminster, and their honeymoon which was fitted into a 48-hour pass, are also featured.
Mr Cowin was hand to sign copies during the book launch at the Market Hall in Cleobury Mortimer on Saturday.
The book will be available in local outlets priced £5.95, and by post from June Bill on (01299) 832562.