Mrs Bates has now confirmed timings for Richard’s funeral service at Blockley Church on Saturday 27 April. Muffled bells will ring from 11.30 and the service will begin at 12 noon.
There will be a significant RAF presence. Eight pall bearers in uniform, provided by Brize Norton, will carry the coffin. Wg Cdr Gareth Burdett (OC XXIV) will attend accompanied by his 2ic Sqn Ldr Gareth Edwards and Captain Denis Canaccini ITAF who is currently serving on an exchange tour with XXIV. Captain Canaccini will represent the Italian Armed Forces.
Subject to weather and aircraft serviceability, a C130 will perform a low flypast after the ceremony. A wake will be held afterwards in the Blockley Primary School hall. All members of our Association are welcome to attend both the funeral and wake.
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Tags: In memorium, RAF, XXIV
29 Apr, 2019 at 8:31 pm |
A very blustery day did not allow a fly past to mark the passing of Richard Bates but a warm and cosy church, full of all his many village, RAF and Association friends made it such a memorable occasion. A fitting tribute to a hard working, caring and “Honest” gentleman with no shortage of acquaintances paying him tribute.