Norman, who was disabled and suffering with a terminal illness, was the inspiration behind a new Bucks Herald project, launched this morning, which aims to help our injured service personnel find new freedom through flying.

Despite having to use a wheelchair, Norman found great release at the controls of his specially-adapted plane. His dream was to help other disabled people find a similar independence, helping them along the road to rehabilitation.

Prince William, who is a Flight Lieutenant in the Royal Air Force, was so touched by Norman's great strength of character he sent a special message of support for the launch of the project.

Sadly, those words were changed to words of condolence for the former RAF pilot's family when Norman passed away on Friday.
However, the royal is this morning urging the people of Bucks to support Norman's campaign and say thank you to our wounded servicemen and women.

"I was saddened to hear of Norman Tench's death, and my thoughts are with his family," he said. "Mr Tench had done so much - in the face of great personal adversity - to help other disabled ex-servicemen like himself to experience the joy of flying.... (This) is a great initiative ... which I urge the public to support in any way that
they can."

Inspired by Norman's story, the Herald will be holding a special flying experience day at RAF Halton, when 12 disabled people, primarily from the Armed Forces, will be treated to a very special day.

In a message to readers Bucks Herald editor, Ellen Campbell, said: "When Norman Tench first made contact with The Bucks Herald in September, we knew we had met a very special man. Disabled and with only weeks to live, he had a vision he wanted to share ... a vision to improve the lives of others.

"And we knew we wanted to help. It's a great sadness to all concerned that Norman did not live long enough to see his plans come to fruition, but everyone involved in this project - including HRH Prince William - wanted to continue in his name.

"So, as you bow your heads this week to remember the fallen, we also ask you to remember the living; those who have been severely disabled in service to their country and democracy around the world.
These people did not falter in their duty and we will not falter in our duty to them.

"This morning, we ask you to give something back; to help them regain the freedom we each of us enjoy everyday because of their bravery and sacrifice.

If every one of our readers gave just 50p today, we would immediately raise £8,500 towards the Norman Tench Bursary project. If every reader gave £1, we would raise £17,000 and be able to offer more injured service personnel a new lease of life.

"So, before you buy that bar of chocolate or that takeaway, ask yourself if - for one day only - you too can make a small sacrifice.
Not everybody can be an inspiration like Norman Tench but - together - we can make a difference."

HOW TO GET INVOLVED:

IN order to donate, please send your money to the British Disabled Flying Association via: www.justgiving.com/bdfa

Or post cheque made out to BDFA to: BDFA / Norman Tench Bursary Appeal
c/o LGS Lasham Airfield Alton GU34 5SS

Email the charity on: email: info@BDFA.net

Also, you can access their website via: www.BDFA.net