WHEN a Halifax bomber crashed into Moordown in the early hours of March 22 1944, nine people lost their lives. And in the intervening years, much of the story of what happened to the ill -fated JP 137 has been lost, too.

But thanks to Moordown councillor Sue Anderson, memories of that dreadful night are being recovered, as part of a local drive to raise money for a memorial in tribute to the seven servicemen and two civilians who died in the incident on Wimborne Road.

On Friday more than 20 people gathered at the area’s Conservative Club for a tea party with a difference – where recollections were on offer, as well as refreshments and cake.

“We want to raise money for a memorial to those who died in this air crash as part of the commemorations taking place for Bournemouth’s Bicentenary,” said Cllr Anderson. “Thanks to an earlier article in the Daily Echo, I have had contacts from as far away as America, Scotland and Kent, from people whose relatives were involved in some way.”

Several of the visitors to the Moordown tea party remembered the tragedy only too well.

Eileen Barker said: “I could hear the plane coming over and you could tell there was something dreadfully wrong.”

Graham Ferguson’s father ran nearby Moordown fish shop. “I can remember the night it happened, being told to get under the bed before hearing the dreadful noise of the crash.” he said.

Russell Barnes’ father, Herbert, was the first helper on the scene. Mr Barnes said: “I can remember the terrible sight of the bomber coming straight towards our home, towards my room. Even now I still get feelings of claustrophobia from it.” His father helped recover many of the body parts that were blasted over the area.

“I can remember the powerful fumes from the aviation fuel, the heat from the flames and the sound of the burning ammunition going off everywhere,” he said.

Russell Beard also brought valuable memories, including part of the vast archive of letters and news cuttings left to him by his late mother, whose home was badly damaged by the disaster. “As a child after the war I used to play on the site of the accident,” he recalled.

Memories were recorded for the project by former Bournemouth East MP David Atkinson, who is supporting the Memorial Appeal.

“It’s a very worthwhile thing to do, not only to remember the victims of this incident but in bringing together people who have an interest in Moordown,” he said.

If you would like to contribute memories – or money – to the project contact Cllr Anderson on 01202 527049.