Museum WW2 salute to ‘loneliest job’ hero

An Erewash hero who took to the skies in one of the loneliest and most perilous roles of World War Two is being saluted at the borough’s museum.

Foundry worker Eric Needham had barely turned 20 when he answered a call from the RAF to join the brave crews serving aboard heavy bombers.

The recruit, from John Street in Ilkeston, trained as a gunner. His crucial task was to protect the aircraft by shooting down enemy warplanes.

The rear gunner on mighty Lancasters and Wellingtons manned a cramped pod behind the tail during missions – and was cut off from the rest of the crew.

The lonely role saw gunners like Eric battle freezing temperatures and sleeplessness as they scoured the skies for Luftwaffe fighters – knowing the slightest lapse in concentration could prove fatal.

Their exposed position made them a prime target for the enemy – meaning the typical survival rate was just five missions. Eric – who also served as a mid-upper gunner – defied the appalling statistic to return to Ilkeston and find work in the pits. 

The late grandad’s logbook is among wartime items that have been loaned to the Erewash Museum by his proud family.

It features the signature of his Officer Commanding, Wing Commander Guy Gibson VC – famed for leading the celebrated Dambusters Raid in 1943.

Also on display is a model aircraft that Eric made after the war – using old toothpaste cartons and parts scavenged from a Wellington and a De Havilland Mosquito.

Erewash Borough Council Deputy Leader Councillor Becca Everett, who is Lead Member for Community Engagement, said: “We owe so much to the incredible bravery of heroes such as Eric. The display dedicated to him is just one more reason why we urge local people to visit our award-winning museum.”

The Erewash Museum near Ilkeston Market Place is open on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 11:00am to 4:00pm but will be closed over Christmas and New Year – reopening on Thursday 9th January. Entry is free.