About This Event

In conversation with historian James Holland , former RAF pilot Colin Bell reflects on his experiences during the Second World War. A flight lieutenant in the elite Pathfinder 608 Squadron, Colin flew the legendary Mosquito – the "Wooden Wonder" – on 50 bombing raids over Germany, including 13 missions to Berlin. His squadron played a crucial role in the air offensive that helped bring about the Nazis' final surrender. One in three of his comrades never returned. From the Blitz streets of pre-war London to the freezing skies above the Reich, Colin recalls life in the cockpit, the camaraderie of those who served and the courage and sacrifice of a generation whose voices are rapidly fading from living memory. There will be a book signing after this event. Get ahead of your Festival reading and visit the Waterstones Cheltenham Literature Festival bookshop and support Cheltenham Festivals with every purchase.

Staying overnight?

Hotels within walking distance of Montpellier Gardens.

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