Housebuilder unveils memorial for WWII war hero in Hailsham

To mark the 85th anniversary of Battle of Britain Day (15th September), a new memorial to World War II hero, Flying Officer Percy Burton, has been unveiled by Barratt Homes at Cuckoo Fields in Hailsham

Percy Burton, originally born in Cape Town, moved to England to study at the University of Oxford before being posted to the No. 249 RAF Squadron in 1939.

On the morning of 27^th September 1940, Percy Burton heroically fought above Hailsham’s skies during the Battle of Britain. Flying over Hailsham, it is believed he deliberately collided a German aircraft with his Hurricane, causing him to lose a wingtip and crash into an oak tree, making the ultimate sacrifice at just 23 years old.

In recognition of his courage, Barratt Homes has unveiled a permanent memorial to Percy Burton around the site of the oak tree, which now forms part of the Cuckoo Fields housing development.

Overlooking the oak tree, a new lectern has been installed to share his story alongside a memorial bench, encouraging the local community to reflect and remember his legacy.

Working with Hailsham Town Council, the park where the tree is located will now be named in his honour as ‘Percy Burton Park’.

As part of the memorial service, a new cross has also been commissioned and blessed by Reverand Rory Graham to mark the location.

Tom Sherriff, Managing Director of Barratt Redrow Southern Counties, said: “This memorial has been in the works for over a year, after one our staff members researched into the worn cross and oak tree that sat at Cuckoo Fields, discovering the incredible story of Flying Officer Percy Burton.

“Working closely with Hailsham Town Council, we have been able to not only name the park after Percy, but to unveil more permanent memorials to his bravery. We are proud to have brought the community together to honour his legacy for the 85^th anniversary of the Battle of Britain Day and we look forward to seeing local people taking a moment to reflect on his dedication to Hailsham.”

The new memorials were revealed at a ceremony on the 13^{th of} September, including relatives of Percy Burton from South Africa, who were able to join the service and lay a wreath at the oak tree.

HM Lord-Lieutenant of East Sussex unveiled the new memorial and commented: “It was an honour to celebrate the life and legacy of Percy Burton and to commend the bravery he showed serving Great Britain at such a young age. As we mark the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, it is more important than ever that we continue to tell these stories and remember those who showed unparalleled courage, so that future generations will never forget the sacrifices made.”

Richard Goldsmith, Chair of Hailsham Historical Society and Hailsham Museum Heritage Centre, has supported with research about Percy Burton and has curated an exhibition of items related to his life.

He added: “Flying Officer Percy Burton will always be a hero to the people of Hailsham, and it is fantastic that we now have this opportunity to remember him as a community. It was a pleasure to work closely with Barratt Homes to ensure that his heroic action is memorialised for the future.”

Anyone interested in finding out more about Flying Officer Percy Burton should contact the Hailsham Historical Society.