New memorial to US pilot who died in WW2 crash

The memorial 2nd Lt Herman C "Jack" Carey was unveiled during a ceremony this week

A new monument honouring a US pilot who died in a crash during World War Two has been unveiled near Howwood in Renfrewshire.

Tennessee-born 2nd Lt Herman C "Jack" Carey took off from Renfrew Airport on 28 December 1943 to deliver a P-47D Thunderbolt aircraft to Burtonwood Air Base in Cheshire.

About 20 minutes into the flight, the 29-year-old's plane down through heavy mist and low cloud and collided with trees before crashing into a field on the Gleniffer Braes.

The memorial replaces one which was damaged by vandals. It was unveiled by Renfrewshire Provost Lorraine Cameron in a ceremony held at the site.

The airman was the sole occupant of the aircraft.

His remains were returned to the US and he was buried in Lynnhurst Cemetery in his hometown of Knoxville.

During the ceremony earlier this week, a piper led a procession at Hartfield Farm.

It was followed by a short outdoor service conducted by Baptist minister Rev Ian Miller.

Wreaths were laid and the Last Post was played in tribute.

Cadets from 1701 (Johnstone) Squadron of the RAF Air Cadets stood behind the memorial throughout the ceremony.