The Airmen's Stories - F/O R Hope

Ralph Hope was born in Birmingham on 18th July 1914 and was related, on his mother's side, to Joseph, Austen and Neville Chamberlain. He was educated at Eton and New College, Oxford. He won his rowing blue in 1935 and rowed bow in the University Boat Race. In 1936 Hope joined the family firm of metal window manufacturers. He went to the firm's subsidiary in Jamestown, New York in September 1937. He started flying there and returned in 1938 with his pilot's license.

Hope joined 605 Squadron, Auxiliary Air Force at Castle Bromwich soon after his return. He was called to full-time service on 24th August 1939. On 9th May 1940 Hope shared in destroying a Do17 off Dunnet Head. He was shot down on 28th September by Me109's over Ticehurst and baled out, unhurt. His Hurricane, P3828, crashed at Bewl Bridge, Lamberhurst.

On 14th October Hope flew into the Inner Artillery Zone during a patrol. He crashed and was killed, either by striking a balloon cable or shot down by anti-aircraft fire. His Hurricane, P3107, crashed in Tennison Road, South Norwood.

Hope was cremated at St John's Crematorium, Woking.