Halifax war hero to be commemorated at Dean Clough

David was one of the 'Cockleshell Heroes' involved in Operation Frankton in 1942.

He was one of eight Royal Marines who died taking part in the commando raid using kayaks on ships in German-occupied France during World War Two. Operation Frankton damaged six vessels in the port of Bordeaux, and Winston Churchill believed the mission shortened the war by six months.

The young men paddled 75 miles through treacherous seas in two-man canoes – or ‘cockles’ – to reach their target.

David’s body washed ashore on the beach at Gros Joncs ten days later. His bravery has never been forgotten, immortalised on plaques and at war cemeteries in both England and France. Marine Moffatt is remembered in the Book of Remembrance in Halifax Town Hall and in St Bernard’s Church.

David’s nephew, also called David, and his sister Helen, who lives in Halifax, are Marine Moffatt's only living close relatives, and have been leading a fundraising campaign for a lasting memorial to him in the town.

They will give a short presentation in the Crossley Gallery, telling the story of David’s part in the famous Operation Frankton raid, which will be followed by the unveiling of a stone plaque to mark David’s employment at John Crossley and Sons, Dean Clough Mills.

"David worked there as a dyer in 1937 as a 16-year-old,” said his nephew David.

"We are proud of our uncle David’s part in the famous Operation Frankton raid and delighted to be able to commemorate his time at Dean Clough, working in the town where he grew up.

“We’re grateful for the financial support, help and encouragement our family has received from over 200 organisations and individuals and are looking forward to commemorating the life of a brave young man.”

The event takes place at Dean Clough on Saturday, June 6 at 1pm. For tickets, visit www.ticketsource.com/david-moffatt/t-zoppkrr.