Derek Leach

Derek Leach
Derek Leach
Born	Boston
Died	26 July 1998 (aged 44) Hampshire
Cause of death	Air accident
Education	St Mary's RC Primary; Boston Grammar School; University of East Anglia
Occupation	Teacher; Deputy Head Teacher
Partner	Elizabeth Nisbet

Derek Leach was educated at Boston Grammar School.

Obituary

From the August 1998 issue of The Old Bostonian

Derek, aged 44, was killed on 26th July this year, when his plane crashed into a field in Hampshire. The plane, a Jodel, was his own, and he was accompanied by his long tìme partner Elizabeth Nisbet, 38, who was also killed.

The tragedy happened as they were returning home to Enbourne near Newbury in Berkshire, after a trip to an air show in Strasbourg. Derek issued a Mayday call at 5:45, the plane having got into difficulties, but minutes later crashed.

Both were teachers, Derek being deputy head at Thatcham's Kennet School, Newbury. He was said to have made a great contribution to the school during his 5 years there.

Born and brought up in Boston, Derek attended St Mary's RC Primary, before BGS. Music was a great part of his life. At 16 he began to study the oboe at Holland Rural Music School. In due course he gained a degree in music at the University of East Anglia.

Derek had been a pilot for many years, and as well as the Jodel, had a part share in a four-seater plane.

The funeral took place at Enbourne, the service being conducted by the Rev Julie Ramsbottom.