THE Northern Echo's campaign to remember a forgotten Second World War hero has received a double boost.

The Forgotten Hero campaign aims to raise £40,000 for a statue in memory of airman Andrew Mynarski who gave his life to rescue his friend from a burning bomber.

Hugh Lang, managing director of Teesside International Airport, where the proposed bronze statue will stand, announced a £5,000 contribution to the appeal.

A group of ex-servicemen have also "scrambled" to help organise the permanent tribute to Pilot Officer Mynarski.

The Royal Air Force Association club at Blackhall, near Hartlepool, is contributing £2,000 towards the fund.

Club secretary Bob Steel said: "The Rafa is made up mostly of ex-RAF members, so this is something they feel from their heart. We have a hero in our midst, who was forgotten by almost everyone, for so long."

Plt Off Mynarski took off on his final fatal flight from the airport site, formerly RAF Middleton St George, near Darlington, in June 1944.

He was awarded the Victoria Cross posthumously for his heroic efforts in trying to save the life of his comrade Pat Brophy in the blazing Lancaster bomber after it had been hit by enemy fire.

In his native Canada, Plt Off Mynarski, 27, is remembered as a national hero, but in this country he is all but forgotten.

The £40,000 appeal got off to a great start on Friday, with all five local authorities in the Tees Valley and Durham County Council each pledging £1,000.

Mr Lang demonstrated the airport's support at an annual remembrance service in honour of airmen who flew from the site during the Second World War.

It was organised by the Middleton St George Royal Canadian Air Force Memorial Association.

The ceremony on Saturday morning was dedicated to Plt Off Mynarski to mark the 60th anniversary of his death.

Mr Lang addressed the crowd of war veterans, airmen and local people, speaking of the airport's £20m modernisation programme as well as remembering its past.

He said: "What we are trying to do here is develop a modern airport for the people of Tees Valley but is also vital that we never forget the military history of the site and we are delighted to make this contribution to The Northern Echo's appeal.