An RAF Falklands War hero from Carterton has died aged 62.

Retired Squadron Leader Brian Jopling, of Hollybush Road, was aboard the container ship Atlantic Conveyor, which was carrying RAF helicopters and supplies, on May 25, 1982, when it was sunk by an Argentine missile, killing 12 sailors.

Mr Jopling, helped lead several crew members out the ship’s flaming hull and into a liferaft before clambering aboard himself.

He was awarded the prestigious Queen’s Gallantry Medal for his actions.

Mr Jopling, who died of renal cancer on March 20, is survived by his wife, Rosemary, and two children.

His funeral will take place today in St John the Evangelist Parish Church, in Carterton, at noon.

Read Mr Jopling’s obituary in tomorrow’s Oxford Mail.