Mexborough & Swinton Times – Saturday 11 January 1941

Gallant Gunner

Bolton Airman Gets D.F.M.

Shot Down Messerschmitt

Another former Bolton-on-Dearne airman, Sergeant Wilfred Scarrott of No. 59 Squadron , has been awarded the Distinguished Flying Medal for gallantry in a recent air action.

Sergt. Scarrott, who was born at Bolton in 1921 and was educated at Wath Grammar School, now resides at Rotherham.

He enlisted in the R.A.F. at the age of 18.

One day last month Sergt. Scarrott was the wireless operator-air gunner in an aircraft detailed to carry out photographic reconnaissance of  enemy occupied aerodromes in Northern France.

His aircraft was attacked by two Messerschmitt 109’s and during the first burst of enemy fire Sergt. Scarrott was wounded in the face.

Despite this he returned a long burst at one of the enemy aircraft, causing it to crash into the sea.

An Air Ministry bulletin, announcing the award says, “He displayed coolness, courage and efficiency of a high order.”