Prince William has urged people to back a local newspaper campaign in memory of a disabled former fighter pilot who died last weekend.

Former Vulcan pilot Norman Tench was the inspiration behind a new project, launched by the Bucks Herald this week, which aims to help injured service personnel find new freedom through flying.

Norman, who was disabled and suffering with a terminal illness, 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 the newspaper a special message of support for the launch of the project.

It was carried on the front page of this week’s edition published yesterday – Remembrance Day.

“I was saddened to hear of Norman Tench’s death, and my thoughts are with his family. 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,” he said.

“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 is organising 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.

The paper is also establishing the Norman Tench Disabled Flying Bursary, where money will be raised every year to contribute towards teaching disabled people to fly.

The Bucks Herald is appealing to the public to donate £5,000 to kickstart this scheme.

Both the British Disabled Flying Association (BDFA) and charity Fly2Help have already pledged their help and support, alongside RAF Halton and the Holiday Inn.