Radio Oldie

To salute the 80th anniversary of the Great Escape and the recent article about POW Roger Mortimer by his son, Charlie Mortimer we present this discussion between Tom Assheton and James Jackson on Great Escapes – events that have captured the imagination for generations.  From the simplest adoption of disguise to the longest tunnels, both successful and failed attempts have entered the realm of legend.  Everyone knows the tale of the Great Escape, yet far fewer remember the names of those who dug myriad escape tunnels to confound the Germans and try to reach home. Colditz and Stalag Luft III have been the subject of television and the big screen.  But the real stories of boredom, fortitude, courage and starvation – and death – give a picture that is more layered and complex than most now imagine.  1. Inertia 2. The Wild, the Wacky and the Simple Plan  3. Organisation  4. Equipment, Killing Time & Techniques  5. The Camps  6. Other Escapes Readings: First published by https://bloodyviolenthistory.com/episodes/escape in august 2021 Marcus Scriven interview with wartime POW Frank Day – 2 extracts Escape & Evasion from the Counter Terrorism Handbook, James Jackson

Welcome to this special episode to celebrate the 80th Anniversary of the capture of General Kreipe. One of the greatest feats in Patrick Leigh Fermor's remarkable life was the kidnapping of General Kreipe, the German commander in Crete, on 26 April 1944. He and Captain Billy Moss hatched a daring plan to abduct the general, while ensuring that no reprisals were taken against the Cretan population. Here, Harry Bucknall, interviews General Sir Michael David Jackson. 

Harry Mount, Editor of The Oldie, speaks about Oldie Reader Tours and Barry Cryer's joke about Parrots

Michael Mansfield discusses the power vested in the people, urging for change and democratic principles. He reflects on activism, history, and the rule of law, emphasizing the importance of upholding democratic values and trust in governance.

Join Tom Hodgkinson for a lively chat about 30 years of 'The Idler' magazine, exploring idleness, work-life balance, and the journey of the publication. Discover the challenges and successes of running a magazine and the rise and fall of The Idola Academy in London.

The lunch was sponsored by Charles Stanley Wealth Managers

Tom Assheton interviews Huon Mallalieu about his forthcoming Oldie Reader trip to the Low Countries which is happening on 9th - 14th December, 2024. To book tickets please visit www.theoldie.co.uk and go to tab Courses & Tours. Huon will be hosting this tour with Kirsty Fergusson.