Lincoln Bomber Command trust chairman Tony Worth dies following cancer battle

The International Bomber Command Centre team in Lincoln have paid an emotional tribute to the creator of the project and former Lord Lieutenant of Lincolnshire Tony Worth, who has died after a brief battle with cancer.

The IBCC confirmed the news on social media on the morning of Friday, November 10, reflecting on his work and dedication to Lincolnshire and the RAF.

The new has sent ripples of heartfelt tributes across the county, many sending thoughts and prayers to his friends, colleagues and family.

(L-R) Site manager Shaun Allerton, project manager Tim Owen, Chairman of the International Bomber Command Trust Tony Worth, assistant site manager Greg Southall and IBCC Director Nicky Barr. Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

A Lincolnshire Bomber Command Centre spokesperson said: “It is with immeasurable sadness that we have to announce the death of International Bomber Command Centre Chairman, Tony Worth CVO, after a brief battle with cancer.

“Tony was the creator and driving force behind the project which is being built to ensure that the story of Bomber Command can be preserved and told for future generations, and that the service and sacrifice of those who lost their lives can be honoured.

“Closely bound with this concept was his desire to tell of Lincolnshire’s contribution to the outcome of the Second World War.

“Tony had a passion for the county and spent much of his life serving the people and institutions based here.

“From working on various boards looking at protecting the area from flooding, to chairing the Cathedral Chapter, being a Governor of the University of Lincoln to serving as County President of the Royal British Legion.

Photo: IBCC

“He also served as the Lord Lieutenant of Lincolnshire for nearly a decade having previously been the High Sheriff and Deputy Lieutenant which lead to him being awarded a personal honour from Her Majesty the Queen.

“He was recently awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award by Lincolnshire Business in recognition of the enormous contribution he has made to the county.

“He will be sorely missed by the many people whose lives he has touched. The team at the IBCC are more determined than ever to ensure that the project creates a lasting and fitting legacy and that Tony’s traits of determination, energy, passion and enthusiasm, sprinkled with great humour, live on in all they do.”