THE letter, purporting to be from Gibson to Mrs Roberts, says in part:

"Sgt Roberts was navigator on an aircraft detailed to carry out an attack on the Moehne dam.

"The aircraft was seen to drop its load on the target, with great precision, and then turn for home.

"Somewhere, however, near enemy coast, it must have encountered trouble, as nothing further was heard from it."

The letter concludes: "If there is any way in which I can help you, please let me know."

The letter was given by Mrs Roberts to the family of her son's fiance, in whose possession it has remained until now.