July 2023  In 1943, when the guns fell silent in Tunisia, a lull fell over the war in the Mediterranean. Meanwhile, the work of the intelligence services continued unabated. An Allied amphibious assault somewhere in the Mediterranean was inevitable. The question for the Germans was “where?” – and the Allies were eager to supply the answers. But how much could the Allies mislead the enemy, and how far could Bletchley Park prove those deceptions were working?  When they came, the landings in Sicily in July 1943 marked the opening of a new front against the Axis in Italy, with far-reaching strategic consequences.  In this ‘It Happened Here’ episode, Bletchley Park’s Research Officer Dr Thomas Cheetham leads us through Operation Husky, and Bletchley Park’s role in its execution and success.  Many thanks to Dr Ben Thomson for voicing our archival documents.  Image: © US Army Green Books (Public Domain)  #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #WW2, #Enigma,

July 2023 In 1943, when the guns fell silent in Tunisia, a lull fell over the war in the Mediterranean. Meanwhile, the work of the intelligence services continued unabated. An Allied amphibious assault somewhere in the Mediterranean was inevitable. The question for the Germans was “where?” – and the Allies were eager to supply the answers. But how much could the Allies mislead the enemy, and how far could Bletchley Park prove those deceptions were working? When they came, the landings in Sicily in July 1943 marked the opening of a new front against the Axis in Italy, with far-reaching strategic consequences. In this ‘It Happened Here’ episode, Bletchley Park’s Research Officer Dr Thomas Cheetham leads us through Operation Husky, and Bletchley Park’s role in its execution and success. Many thanks to Dr Ben Thomson for voicing our archival documents. Image: © US Army Green Books (Public Domain) #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #WW2, #Enigma,

E153 - Sicilian Deception

June 2023  Who chose Bletchley Park – a vacant estate in Buckinghamshire – as the wartime home of the Codebreakers? That decision was made by the man in charge of the Secret Intelligence Service, known as ‘C’ – Admiral Sir Hugh Sinclair. A very public man with a very secretive profession, Sinclair was widely-known and well-respected. He passed away just a couple of months after World War Two began in 1939, but his influence was far-reaching.   Bletchley Park Trust is proud to be displaying, for the first time, a collection of medals awarded to Sinclair throughout his life. This recent generous donation, from members of his family, forms this year’s ‘Object in Focus’ exhibition. The display is an opportunity to reveal a lesser-known character in Bletchley Park’s story, and a chance to honour this important and charismatic individual.  In this episode, we will be speaking to Bletchley Park’s Research Officer Dr Thomas Cheetham and award-winning author Mick Smith to find out more about ‘C’. We’ll also hear from Exhibitions Manager Erica Munro about the new exhibition, and meet members of Sinclair’s family to uncover more about the collection of medals on display and the family history.  Many thanks to Dr Ben Thomson for voicing our archival documents.  Image: © Crown Copyright. Reproduced by kind permission, Director GCHQ  #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #WW2, #Enigma,

June 2023 Who chose Bletchley Park – a vacant estate in Buckinghamshire – as the wartime home of the Codebreakers? That decision was made by the man in charge of the Secret Intelligence Service, known as ‘C’ – Admiral Sir Hugh Sinclair. A very public man with a very secretive profession, Sinclair was widely-known and well-respected. He passed away just a couple of months after World War Two began in 1939, but his influence was far-reaching.  Bletchley Park Trust is proud to be displaying, for the first time, a collection of medals awarded to Sinclair throughout his life. This recent generous donation, from members of his family, forms this year’s ‘Object in Focus’ exhibition. The display is an opportunity to reveal a lesser-known character in Bletchley Park’s story, and a chance to honour this important and charismatic individual. In this episode, we will be speaking to Bletchley Park’s Research Officer Dr Thomas Cheetham and award-winning author Mick Smith to find out more about ‘C’. We’ll also hear from Exhibitions Manager Erica Munro about the new exhibition, and meet members of Sinclair’s family to uncover more about the collection of medals on display and the family history. Many thanks to Dr Ben Thomson for voicing our archival documents. Image: © Crown Copyright. Reproduced by kind permission, Director GCHQ #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #WW2, #Enigma,

E152 - Sinclair in Focus

May 2023  Like many heritage organisations, Bletchley Park Trust holds a collection within its storerooms. And we are always seeking to improve how it’s managed and taken care of. Now, due to the support of foundations, trusts and generous individuals, we’ve created a new Collection Centre. Once the building had been refurbished and kitted out, the curatorial team had the mammoth task of moving and rehousing the collection of over 400,000 items: from intelligence reports to teleprinter components, clothing to coded messages.  The new Collection Centre was completed in October 2022 and boasts first class storage and preservation facilities. There’s also a brand new Reading Room, allowing researchers and academics to access our archives and objects for their publications or teaching work.  The Bletchley Park Podcast went for a behind-the-scenes tour with Head of Programmes Nicola Ayrton, and sat down with Museum Archivist Dean Annison in the new Reading Room to explore some of the collections treasures from the stores.  Image: ©Bletchley Park Trust 2023. Dean Annison, Bletchley Park's Archivist, in the Christopher Moore Reading Room.  #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #WW2, #Enigma,

May 2023 Like many heritage organisations, Bletchley Park Trust holds a collection within its storerooms. And we are always seeking to improve how it’s managed and taken care of. Now, due to the support of foundations, trusts and generous individuals, we’ve created a new Collection Centre. Once the building had been refurbished and kitted out, the curatorial team had the mammoth task of moving and rehousing the collection of over 400,000 items: from intelligence reports to teleprinter components, clothing to coded messages. The new Collection Centre was completed in October 2022 and boasts first class storage and preservation facilities. There’s also a brand new Reading Room, allowing researchers and academics to access our archives and objects for their publications or teaching work. The Bletchley Park Podcast went for a behind-the-scenes tour with Head of Programmes Nicola Ayrton, and sat down with Museum Archivist Dean Annison in the new Reading Room to explore some of the collections treasures from the stores. Image: ©Bletchley Park Trust 2023. Dean Annison, Bletchley Park's Archivist, in the Christopher Moore Reading Room. #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #WW2, #Enigma,

E151 - Stored Secrets

April 2023   80 years ago, Bletchley Park’s communications centre opened in Block E. Employing hundreds of staff, mainly young women, this block was vital to BP’s smooth running.  Most messages and reports coming into and out of Bletchley Park went through Block E. But as we’ll hear in this ‘It Happened Here’ episode, its wartime importance doesn’t necessarily mean its value has been fully recognised today. Block E is still standing, and is due to open to the public later this year, 2023, as Bletchley Park’s brand new Learning Centre.  Here to help us set the record straight and rediscover the value of Block E is our Research Officer Dr Thomas Cheetham, who has been researching the building and its various departments.  Many thanks to Dr Ben Thompson, Sarah Langston and Maria Turnbull for voicing our archival documents.  Image: Block E Cypher Office showing Mr Alfred Sidney White (wearing glasses). © Crown. Reproduced by kind permission, Director, GCHQ  #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #WW2, #Enigma,

April 2023  80 years ago, Bletchley Park’s communications centre opened in Block E. Employing hundreds of staff, mainly young women, this block was vital to BP’s smooth running. Most messages and reports coming into and out of Bletchley Park went through Block E. But as we’ll hear in this ‘It Happened Here’ episode, its wartime importance doesn’t necessarily mean its value has been fully recognised today. Block E is still standing, and is due to open to the public later this year, 2023, as Bletchley Park’s brand new Learning Centre. Here to help us set the record straight and rediscover the value of Block E is our Research Officer Dr Thomas Cheetham, who has been researching the building and its various departments. Many thanks to Dr Ben Thompson, Sarah Langston and Maria Turnbull for voicing our archival documents. Image: Block E Cypher Office showing Mr Alfred Sidney White (wearing glasses). © Crown. Reproduced by kind permission, Director, GCHQ #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #WW2, #Enigma,

E150 - Communication is Key

March 2023   To celebrate World Poetry Day on the 21st of March, we have been looking into the poets and poetry of Bletchley Park.  We have chosen nine poems to feature in this episode; they are read by staff, volunteers and Bletchley Park Veterans.  Exhibitions Manager, Erica Munro and Research Officer, Dr Thomas Cheetham have been digging into the archives to give us more information as we listen.  Thanks to all our readers for their time and fantastic performances.  A special thank you to the Watkins family for the wonderful recording of their mother, Gwen Watkins.  Image: ©Bletchley Park Trust 2023  #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #WW2, #Enigma, #WorldPoetryDay,

March 2023  To celebrate World Poetry Day on the 21st of March, we have been looking into the poets and poetry of Bletchley Park. We have chosen nine poems to feature in this episode; they are read by staff, volunteers and Bletchley Park Veterans. Exhibitions Manager, Erica Munro and Research Officer, Dr Thomas Cheetham have been digging into the archives to give us more information as we listen. Thanks to all our readers for their time and fantastic performances. A special thank you to the Watkins family for the wonderful recording of their mother, Gwen Watkins. Image: ©Bletchley Park Trust 2023 #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #WW2, #Enigma, #WorldPoetryDay,

E149 - Bletchley Park Poetry

February 2023   The breaking of the German Lorenz cipher system was one of BP's most complex technical achievements. This work is often associated with Tommy Flowers from the GPO, however Flowers' work, and the wider mechanisation of the breaking of TUNNY was overseen by a Cambridge mathematician who came to BP only reluctantly in 1942; Professor Max Newman.   To mark the 80th anniversary of the opening of Bletchley Park’s 'Newmanry' in February 1943, in this ‘It Happened Here’ episode, we examine the story of Newman and his crucial role in the breaking of Lorenz.  We are joined by Bletchley Park’s Research Historian Dr David Kenyon to tell us more.  Special thanks to Dr Ben Thomson for voicing our archival documents.  Image: ©Crown. Reproduced by kind permission, Director, GCHQ  #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #WW2, # Colossus,

February 2023  The breaking of the German Lorenz cipher system was one of BP's most complex technical achievements. This work is often associated with Tommy Flowers from the GPO, however Flowers' work, and the wider mechanisation of the breaking of TUNNY was overseen by a Cambridge mathematician who came to BP only reluctantly in 1942; Professor Max Newman.  To mark the 80th anniversary of the opening of Bletchley Park’s 'Newmanry' in February 1943, in this ‘It Happened Here’ episode, we examine the story of Newman and his crucial role in the breaking of Lorenz. We are joined by Bletchley Park’s Research Historian Dr David Kenyon to tell us more. Special thanks to Dr Ben Thomson for voicing our archival documents. Image: ©Crown. Reproduced by kind permission, Director, GCHQ #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #WW2, # Colossus,

E148 - A New Look at Newman

January 2023   The Podcast Team wish all our listeners a Very Happy New Year.   To start the 2023 season of the podcast, producer Mark Cotton sits down with Oral History Officer Jonathan Byrne to catch-up on both our Roll of Honour and our continuing Oral History Project.   For the rest of the episode we have highlights of 3 selections from our Oral History Archive. As with previous years we have a theme … but this year the theme is unusual, they are all from people who didn’t work at either GC&amp;CS or its Outstations. We hear from the 14 year old girl who made vital deliveries to the Codebreakers, a member of S.O.E., the Special Operations Executive and finally a Luftwaffe Radio Operator.  This episode features the following contributors from our Oral History Archive:  Jean Barratt Lois Barefield Rudi Schoberl  The Bletchley Park Roll of Honour can be found at:  https://bletchleypark.org.uk/roll-of-honour/ Image: ©Bletchley Park Trust 2023  #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #WW2, #Enigma,

January 2023  The Podcast Team wish all our listeners a Very Happy New Year.  To start the 2023 season of the podcast, producer Mark Cotton sits down with Oral History Officer Jonathan Byrne to catch-up on both our Roll of Honour and our continuing Oral History Project.  For the rest of the episode we have highlights of 3 selections from our Oral History Archive. As with previous years we have a theme … but this year the theme is unusual, they are all from people who didn’t work at either GC&amp;CS or its Outstations. We hear from the 14 year old girl who made vital deliveries to the Codebreakers, a member of S.O.E., the Special Operations Executive and finally a Luftwaffe Radio Operator. This episode features the following contributors from our Oral History Archive: Jean Barratt Lois Barefield Rudi Schoberl The Bletchley Park Roll of Honour can be found at: <a href="https://bletchleypark.org.uk/roll-of-honour/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://bletchleypark.org.uk/roll-of-honour/</a> Image: ©Bletchley Park Trust 2023 #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #WW2, #Enigma,

E147 – Oral History 2023

December 2022   Since the first two Top Secret Misinformation podcasts in 2020 &amp; 2021, our listeners have been asking us to record another one. Maybe it’s because the secrecy surrounding Bletchley Park is the perfect breeding ground for all sorts of myths and misunderstandings. Or maybe it’s because it lets our Historians off the leash to set the record straight once and for all.  We asked our listeners, via social media, what history mysteries they wanted solved by our resident representatives of research and rigour, Dr David Kenyon and Dr Thomas Cheetham. In this episode they are joined by Exhibitions Manager Erica Munro and podcast producer Mark Cotton, to try and get to the bottom of some of Bletchley Park’s most puzzling conundrums.  Many thanks to Dr Ben Thomson for voicing our archival documents.  Featuring the following contributors from our Oral History Archive:  Betty Webb Shaun Wylie Mavis Batey Peggy Huntingdon Joan Joslin  Producers Note: Many thanks to our listeners and followers for setting us these challenges. We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year.  Image: ©Bletchley Park Trust 2022  #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #WW2, #Enigma,

December 2022  Since the first two Top Secret Misinformation podcasts in 2020 &amp; 2021, our listeners have been asking us to record another one. Maybe it’s because the secrecy surrounding Bletchley Park is the perfect breeding ground for all sorts of myths and misunderstandings. Or maybe it’s because it lets our Historians off the leash to set the record straight once and for all. We asked our listeners, via social media, what history mysteries they wanted solved by our resident representatives of research and rigour, Dr David Kenyon and Dr Thomas Cheetham. In this episode they are joined by Exhibitions Manager Erica Munro and podcast producer Mark Cotton, to try and get to the bottom of some of Bletchley Park’s most puzzling conundrums. Many thanks to Dr Ben Thomson for voicing our archival documents. Featuring the following contributors from our Oral History Archive: Betty Webb Shaun Wylie Mavis Batey Peggy Huntingdon Joan Joslin Producers Note: Many thanks to our listeners and followers for setting us these challenges. We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year. Image: ©Bletchley Park Trust 2022 #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #WW2, #Enigma,

E146 - Top Secret Misinformation Part 3

November 2022   The Allied victory in the Second Battle of El Alamein in November 1942 proved to be the beginning of the end of the war in North Africa. But many months of hard fighting, and the opening of a whole new front in northwest Africa, would be needed before the Allies were finally able to kick Axis forces off that continent for good.  Though often forgotten about today, the Operation Torch landings were a pivotal event which led to the first battles between German and American forces. These troops, and the intelligence personnel who supported them, had to learn their trade quickly in the toughest of circumstances.   In this 'It Happened Here' episode, Bletchley Park's Research Officer Dr Thomas Cheetham reveals how these lessons would prove fundamental to the Allied use of intelligence later in the war  This episode is hosted by Exhibitions Manager, Erica Munro.   Many thanks to Dr Ben Thomson and Owen Moogan for voicing our archival documents.  Image: © US Army Green Books (Public Domain)  #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #WW2, #Enigma,

November 2022  The Allied victory in the Second Battle of El Alamein in November 1942 proved to be the beginning of the end of the war in North Africa. But many months of hard fighting, and the opening of a whole new front in northwest Africa, would be needed before the Allies were finally able to kick Axis forces off that continent for good. Though often forgotten about today, the Operation Torch landings were a pivotal event which led to the first battles between German and American forces. These troops, and the intelligence personnel who supported them, had to learn their trade quickly in the toughest of circumstances.  In this 'It Happened Here' episode, Bletchley Park's Research Officer Dr Thomas Cheetham reveals how these lessons would prove fundamental to the Allied use of intelligence later in the war This episode is hosted by Exhibitions Manager, Erica Munro.  Many thanks to Dr Ben Thomson and Owen Moogan for voicing our archival documents. Image: © US Army Green Books (Public Domain) #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #WW2, #Enigma,

E145 - Torch to Tunis

October 2022   In February 1942 the worst fears of the teams working on Enigma in Hut 8 and Naval Section were realised. The German navy introduced a new, more complex Enigma machine for use by its U-boats in the Atlantic.   At a stroke, Bletchley Park was no longer able to read messages sent by the German submarines hunting the vital Atlantic convoys.   By the end of the year, however, the new code had been broken, and BP was once again able to divine the secrets of the Atlantic U-boats. Just what was ‘SHARK’ and how was it broken by the team at BP?  Once again we are joined by Bletchley Park’s Research Historian Dr David Kenyon to find the answers.  Special thanks to Dr Ben Thomson for voicing our archival documents.  Featuring the following contributors from our Oral History Archive:  Arnold Hargreaves Tommy Flowers  Image: ©Bletchley Park Trust 2022    #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #WW2, #Enigma,

October 2022  In February 1942 the worst fears of the teams working on Enigma in Hut 8 and Naval Section were realised. The German navy introduced a new, more complex Enigma machine for use by its U-boats in the Atlantic.  At a stroke, Bletchley Park was no longer able to read messages sent by the German submarines hunting the vital Atlantic convoys.  By the end of the year, however, the new code had been broken, and BP was once again able to divine the secrets of the Atlantic U-boats. Just what was ‘SHARK’ and how was it broken by the team at BP? Once again we are joined by Bletchley Park’s Research Historian Dr David Kenyon to find the answers. Special thanks to Dr Ben Thomson for voicing our archival documents. Featuring the following contributors from our Oral History Archive: Arnold Hargreaves Tommy Flowers Image: ©Bletchley Park Trust 2022   #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #WW2, #Enigma,

E144 - Shark Attack

Bletchley Park is the home of British codebreaking and a birthplace of modern information technology. It played a major role in World War Two, producing secret intelligence which had a direct and profound influence on the outcome of the conflict. The site is now a museum and heritage attraction, open daily.The Bletchley Park Podcast brings you fascinating stories from Veterans, staff and volunteers on the significance and continued relevance of this site today.

Excellent research, good audio, and fascinating. It makes excellent listening while gardening.

Thank you!

Love the show! Very well put together. Keep up the great work!

Love it!

Bletchley Park is the home of British codebreaking and a birthplace of modern information technology. It played a major role in World War Two, producing secret intelligence which had a direct and profound influence on the outcome of the conflict. The site is now a museum and heritage attraction, open daily. The Bletchley Park Podcast brings you fascinating stories from Veterans, staff and volunteers on the significance and continued relevance of this site today.

Bletchley Park

August 2012 The 1st  Bletchley Park Podcast, including an interview with CEO Ian Standen, selections from the first Family Fun Day of 2012 &amp; an excerpt from Capt. Jerry Roberts annual Turing Lecture. #BPark, #BletchleyPark, #WW2, #Spitfire, #Turing, #AlanTuringYear #Wonder88

August 2012 The 1st Bletchley Park Podcast, including an interview with CEO Ian Standen, selections from the first Family Fun Day of 2012 &amp; an excerpt from Capt. Jerry Roberts annual Turing Lecture. #BPark, #BletchleyPark, #WW2, #Spitfire, #Turing, #AlanTuringYear #Wonder88

E01 - The First Show

May 2013 Martin Davidson’s mother told him a family secret shortly after the death of his German Grandfather.  This sent him on a quest to discover the true story of Bruno Langbehn – The Perfect Nazi. In this 2nd &amp; final part, Martin looks deeper into the history of his German Grandfather Bruno Langbehn – The Perfect Nazi. It includes a Q&amp;A session held after the talk. #BPark, #MartinDavidson, #Bletchleypark

May 2013 Martin Davidson’s mother told him a family secret shortly after the death of his German Grandfather. This sent him on a quest to discover the true story of Bruno Langbehn – The Perfect Nazi. In this 2nd &amp; final part, Martin looks deeper into the history of his German Grandfather Bruno Langbehn – The Perfect Nazi. It includes a Q&amp;A session held after the talk. #BPark, #MartinDavidson, #Bletchleypark

Extra - E22 - The Perfect Nazi Part 2

January 2020   80 years ago, in January 1940, British and French troops were freezing in their dugouts awaiting a German attack which would not come for several months yet; the so-called ‘Phony war’.  Bletchley Park, by contrast was a hive of activity as efforts were made to break into German codes and ciphers, including the Enigma system, before the land war began in earnest.  In this ‘It Happened Here’ episode we are guided by Bletchley Park’s Research Historian Dr David Kenyon through the evolution of this infamous cipher machine, and the international efforts which led to the unlocking of its secrets in January 1940.  As usual special thanks go to Mr Ben Thomson for voicing our archival documents.  Image courtesy of Vic Roberts.  #BPark, #WW2, #BletchleyParkEnigma80, #Enigma80

January 2020  80 years ago, in January 1940, British and French troops were freezing in their dugouts awaiting a German attack which would not come for several months yet; the so-called ‘Phony war’. Bletchley Park, by contrast was a hive of activity as efforts were made to break into German codes and ciphers, including the Enigma system, before the land war began in earnest. In this ‘It Happened Here’ episode we are guided by Bletchley Park’s Research Historian Dr David Kenyon through the evolution of this infamous cipher machine, and the international efforts which led to the unlocking of its secrets in January 1940. As usual special thanks go to Mr Ben Thomson for voicing our archival documents. Image courtesy of Vic Roberts. #BPark, #WW2, #BletchleyParkEnigma80, #Enigma80

E103 - Enigma Unlocked

Benedict Cumberbatch

November 2014 With only a couple of weeks till the UK releaseof THE IMITATION GAME, we can now bring you more exclusive interviews with the cast and crew. Our roving reporter Astrid Specht braved the rain with patient fans at The Odeon LeicesterSquare for the London Film Festival premiere last month.  Podcast host Katherine Lynch sits down withDirector Morton Tyldum, screen writer Graham Moore and actors Allen Leech and Matthew Beard. We also bring you what was a very special moment for all of us at Bletchley Park, when Katherine sat down to start her interview with the star of the film, Benedict Cumberbatch(hear all this interview next month). Finally, when Bletchley Park Historian and Guide, Joel Greenberg recently gave a talk on his biography of Gordon Welchman, there was a very special guest in attendance. Lord Asa Briggs served at Bletchley Park from 1942 till 1945, working with Welchman in Hut 6 and then later in Block D. He spoke to the sold out audience about his time at the Government Code &amp; Cypher School and then sat down with us for a reflective conversation.   For more information on becoming a Friend ofBletchley Park go to:http://www.bletchleypark.org.uk/content/support/friends.rhtm Trailer, Music &amp; Picture: © Black Bear Pictures/Studio Canal  #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #AlanTuring, #ImitationGameUK

November 2014 With only a couple of weeks till the UK release of THE IMITATION GAME, we can now bring you more exclusive interviews with the cast and crew. Our roving reporter Astrid Specht braved the rain with patient fans at The Odeon Leicester Square for the London Film Festival premiere last month. Podcast host Katherine Lynch sits down with Director Morton Tyldum, screen writer Graham Moore and actors Allen Leech and Matthew Beard. We also bring you what was a very special moment for all of us at Bletchley Park, when Katherine sat down to start her interview with the star of the film, Benedict Cumberbatch (hear all this interview next month). Finally, when Bletchley Park Historian and Guide, Joel Greenberg recently gave a talk on his biography of Gordon Welchman, there was a very special guest in attendance. Lord Asa Briggs served at Bletchley Park from 1942 till 1945, working with Welchman in Hut 6 and then later in Block D. He spoke to the sold out audience about his time at the Government Code &amp; Cypher School and then sat down with us for a reflective conversation. For more information on becoming a Friend of Bletchley Park go to: <a href="http://www.bletchleypark.org.uk/content/support/friends.rhtm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.bletchleypark.org.uk/content/support/friends.rhtm</a> Trailer, Music &amp; Picture: © Black Bear Pictures/Studio Canal #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #AlanTuring, #ImitationGameUK

E28 - Benedict Cumberbatch on Bletchley Park

April 2019     In this month’s episode we take you to the preview opening of a major new exhibition, D-Day: Interception, Intelligence, Invasion.     For 18 months prior to the launch of Overlord the staff at GC&amp;CS produced intelligence that was integral to the invasion plans. The detailed picture that the codebreakers created of German forces in France made sure that as the troops hit the beaches on the 6th of June 1944, they knew almost as well as the Germans what to expect.     Based on recently declassified information a specially commissioned 12 minute film is projected onto a curved 22m screen in the newly restored historic Teleprinter Building, giving visitors a truly immersive cinematic experience.     So join us at the launch party for interviews and speeches from some of the team who put this new experience together, including our Guest of Honour broadcaster Chris Packham.     Image: ©Bletchley Park Trust 2019     #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #WW2, #DDay75

April 2019  In this month’s episode we take you to the preview opening of a major new exhibition, D-Day: Interception, Intelligence, Invasion.  For 18 months prior to the launch of Overlord the staff at GC&amp;CS produced intelligence that was integral to the invasion plans. The detailed picture that the codebreakers created of German forces in France made sure that as the troops hit the beaches on the 6th of June 1944, they knew almost as well as the Germans what to expect.  Based on recently declassified information a specially commissioned 12 minute film is projected onto a curved 22m screen in the newly restored historic Teleprinter Building, giving visitors a truly immersive cinematic experience.  So join us at the launch party for interviews and speeches from some of the team who put this new experience together, including our Guest of Honour broadcaster Chris Packham.  Image: ©Bletchley Park Trust 2019  #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #WW2, #DDay75

E87 - D-Day: Interception, Intelligence, Invasion

December 2019  After nearly 6 months of fighting from the beaches of Normandy, by early December 1944 the Allies’ front line stretched for 600 miles from the North Sea coast to the borders of Switzerland. The Scheldt estuary had finally been cleared, allowing the port of Antwerp to be opened and to start to ease their supply problems.  With one of the coldest winters on record taking hold and Christmas approaching many of the front line troops probably expected a respite for at least a few weeks. What they didn’t expect was for more than 400,000 German troops to come smashing through the Ardennes on a mission to recapture Antwerp and split the Allied forces in two. Why was the Battle of the Bulge such a surprise? Was it Allied complacency or German ingenuity? In this “It Happened Here” episode, using contemporary archival documents, Bletchley Park’s Research Officer Dr Thomas Cheetham, will try to answer those questions. Special thanks to Mr Ben Thomson for playing the role of our Intelligence Officer. In memoriam, Eileen Younghusband BEM  (1921-2016) WAAF Section Officer #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #WW2, #Bulge75

December 2019    After nearly 6 months of fighting from the beaches of Normandy, by early December 1944 the Allies’ front line stretched for 600 miles from the North Sea coast to the borders of Switzerland. The Scheldt estuary had finally been cleared, allowing the port of Antwerp to be opened and to start to ease their supply problems.    With one of the coldest winters on record taking hold and Christmas approaching many of the front line troops probably expected a respite for at least a few weeks. What they didn’t expect was for more than 400,000 German troops to come smashing through the Ardennes on a mission to recapture Antwerp and split the Allied forces in two.   Why was the Battle of the Bulge such a surprise? Was it Allied complacency or German ingenuity? In this “It Happened Here” episode, using contemporary archival documents, Bletchley Park’s Research Officer Dr Thomas Cheetham, will try to answer those questions.   Special thanks to Mr Ben Thomson for playing the role of our Intelligence Officer.   In memoriam, Eileen Younghusband BEM  (1921-2016) WAAF Section Officer   #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #WW2, #Bulge75

E101 - Battle of the Bulge

October 2017 75 years ago, one of the most decisive battles of World War Two marked the end of the beginning. El Alamein was of huge strategic importance to both the Allied and Axis forces in North Africa. Rommel and Montgomery’s forces clashed twice. The second battle would become famous, making a household name of this obscure outpost. The intelligence was a crucial weapon. Rommel’s attack plan was confirmed by intercepts which were deciphered and translated by the top secret Government Code and Cipher School at Bletchley Park, giving the Allies an unseen advantage. In this episode, we bring you a personal perspective on this slice of history, with Bletchley Park’s good friend, the historian Dan Snow. He made an unforgettable trip to the desert with his father, Peter, where they traced the soldiers’ footsteps through the sand for a memorable TV documentary. He looks back on that experience, with Bletchley Park’s Research Historian, Dr David Kenyon. Image: ©Bletchley Park Trust 2017 #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #Enigma, #WW2, #HistoryHit

October 2017 75 years ago, one of the most decisive battles of World War Two marked the end of the beginning. El Alamein was of huge strategic importance to both the Allied and Axis forces in North Africa. Rommel and Montgomery’s forces clashed twice. The second battle would become famous, making a household name of this obscure outpost. The intelligence was a crucial weapon. Rommel’s attack plan was confirmed by intercepts which were deciphered and translated by the top secret Government Code and Cipher School at Bletchley Park, giving the Allies an unseen advantage. In this episode, we bring you a personal perspective on this slice of history, with Bletchley Park’s good friend, the historian Dan Snow. He made an unforgettable trip to the desert with his father, Peter, where they traced the soldiers’ footsteps through the sand for a memorable TV documentary. He looks back on that experience, with Bletchley Park’s Research Historian, Dr David Kenyon. Image: ©Bletchley Park Trust 2017 #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #Enigma, #WW2, #HistoryHit

E64 - The End of the Beginning

January 2018 January is a good time to take stock and look at the year ahead. 75 years ago, it was January 1943 and, after a dark and difficult year, things were starting to look up. By this time, Hut 8 had broken back into the naval Enigma codenamed Shark, after a devastating ten-month blackout. The daring raid on a sinking submarine which cost the lives of two brave sailors became a huge turning point in the Battle of the Atlantic. Elsewhere, five gruelling months drew to a close with the German army’s surrender at Stalingrad, against Hitler’s wishes, and not before 2 million people had been killed, injured or captured. Intelligence played its part in both of these turning points, and more, in 1943. Bletchley Park itself was beginning to look quite different. No more were wooden huts hastily thrown together. Now, solid brick blocks were taking shape, showing a serious commitment to code breaking. In this episode we examine these - and more - turning points in 1943 with Bletchley Park’s Research Historian, Dr David Kenyon, and a rich archive of audio from the time. Image: ©Crown. Reproduced by kind permission, Director, GCHQ #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #Enigma, #WW2

January 2018 January is a good time to take stock and look at the year ahead. 75 years ago, it was January 1943 and, after a dark and difficult year, things were starting to look up. By this time, Hut 8 had broken back into the naval Enigma codenamed Shark, after a devastating ten-month blackout. The daring raid on a sinking submarine which cost the lives of two brave sailors became a huge turning point in the Battle of the Atlantic. Elsewhere, five gruelling months drew to a close with the German army’s surrender at Stalingrad, against Hitler’s wishes, and not before 2 million people had been killed, injured or captured. Intelligence played its part in both of these turning points, and more, in 1943. Bletchley Park itself was beginning to look quite different. No more were wooden huts hastily thrown together. Now, solid brick blocks were taking shape, showing a serious commitment to code breaking. In this episode we examine these - and more - turning points in 1943 with Bletchley Park’s Research Historian, Dr David Kenyon, and a rich archive of audio from the time. Image: ©Crown. Reproduced by kind permission, Director, GCHQ #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #Enigma, #WW2

E68 - Turning Points

Mavis Batey

November 2013 Mavis Batey, one of Bletchley Park’s leading female Codebreakers, died this week at the age of 92.  Mavis’s work on Enigma was crucial to the Royal Navy’s victory at Matapan in 1941 and the success of the D-Day landings in 1944. She was part of Dilly Knox’s team, working on as-yet unbroken codes and ciphers.  In this Bletchley Park Podcast Extra, we can hear her chatting with Bletchley Park historian and author Michael Smith. Many thanks to Michael Smith, Matt Rawlinson &amp; The Open University for allowing us to share this with you. #bletchleypark, #bpark, #enigma, #ww2

November 2013 Mavis Batey, one of Bletchley Park’s leading female Codebreakers, died this week at the age of 92. Mavis’s work on Enigma was crucial to the Royal Navy’s victory at Matapan in 1941 and the success of the D-Day landings in 1944. She was part of Dilly Knox’s team, working on as-yet unbroken codes and ciphers. In this Bletchley Park Podcast Extra, we can hear her chatting with Bletchley Park historian and author Michael Smith. Many thanks to Michael Smith, Matt Rawlinson &amp; The Open University for allowing us to share this with you. #bletchleypark, #bpark, #enigma, #ww2

Extra - E28 - Mavis Batey

November 2015 Hindsight can be cruel. The conspiracy theory that Churchill allowed Coventry to be bombed beyond recognition, killing hundreds of civilians, in order to protect the Ultra secret - that Bletchley Park was breaking German codes - is a myth.  In this episode we bring you memories of the devastating air raid on Coventry, which took place 75 years ago, on 14 November 1940. Hear from Sir Arthur Bonsall, who worked in the German Air Section, debunking the myth. And Bletchley Park’s Research Historian, Dr David Kenyon, explains how the theory came about and has since been disproved. Also this month, the Bletchley Park Trust is reaching out to Veterans’ families, to create a worldwide community of people with a special link to this unique piece of British history. Dilly Knox was instrumental in codebreaking in both world wars. He was working to break into Enigma before World War Two even broke out, but died in 1943, so never knew how the war ended and never shared what he’d done with his family. They can now celebrate his achievements and did just that on a visit to Bletchley Park, during which they shared their pride with the Bletchley Park Podcast. And we hear from Professor Jack Copeland, Director of the Turing Archive for the History of Computing, celebrating another forgotten hero of Bletchley Park, Max Newman. In August, his talk ‘How Computers Were Used Against Hitler’, was a huge success. This episode features an extract of that talk as well as a rare interview with Jack. Image: Prime Minister Winston Churchill accompanied by the Mayor and Alderman JA Mosely, inspects a large scale Civil Defence parade in Broadgate, Coventry in September 1941. ©Mirrorpix #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #Enigma, #WW2Veteran, #History, #Churchill

November 2015 Hindsight can be cruel. The conspiracy theory that Churchill allowed Coventry to be bombed beyond recognition, killing hundreds of civilians, in order to protect the Ultra secret - that Bletchley Park was breaking German codes - is a myth. In this episode we bring you memories of the devastating air raid on Coventry, which took place 75 years ago, on 14 November 1940. Hear from Sir Arthur Bonsall, who worked in the German Air Section, debunking the myth. And Bletchley Park’s Research Historian, Dr David Kenyon, explains how the theory came about and has since been disproved. Also this month, the Bletchley Park Trust is reaching out to Veterans’ families, to create a worldwide community of people with a special link to this unique piece of British history. Dilly Knox was instrumental in codebreaking in both world wars. He was working to break into Enigma before World War Two even broke out, but died in 1943, so never knew how the war ended and never shared what he’d done with his family. They can now celebrate his achievements and did just that on a visit to Bletchley Park, during which they shared their pride with the Bletchley Park Podcast. And we hear from Professor Jack Copeland, Director of the Turing Archive for the History of Computing, celebrating another forgotten hero of Bletchley Park, Max Newman. In August, his talk ‘How Computers Were Used Against Hitler’, was a huge success. This episode features an extract of that talk as well as a rare interview with Jack. Image: Prime Minister Winston Churchill accompanied by the Mayor and Alderman JA Mosely, inspects a large scale Civil Defence parade in Broadgate, Coventry in September 1941. ©Mirrorpix #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #Enigma, #WW2Veteran, #History, #Churchill

E40 - The Coventry Myth

Ben Macintyre

March 2014 In this EXTRA’s episode we bring you highlights of bestselling author, journalist and TV presenter Ben Macintyre’s talk on his book ‘A Spy Among Friends, Kim Philby and the Great Betrayal’. Kim Philby was the most notorious British defector and Soviet mole in history. Agent, double agent, traitor and enigma, he betrayed every secret of Allied operations to the Russians in the early years of the Cold War. It is followed by the interview we recorded with Ben after his talk, that regular listeners will have heard in this month’s normal podcast, but we have added it here again for completion.   This talk was given in our Bletchley Park Presents series last year. Our 2015 season of talks is about to begin, starting with Michael Smith in March and already confirmed for later in the year are Victor Madeira, Jerry White, Taylor Downing &amp; Sinclair McKay with more names yet to be announced. For more information on these talks please go to www.bletchleypark.org and look in the What’s On section. Picture of Ben Macintyre courtesy Jonathan Ring. Cover Image courtesy of Bloomsbury Publishing. #BletchleyPark, #BPark, #Spy, #ColdWar, #BenMacintyre1

March 2014 In this EXTRA’s episode we bring you highlights of bestselling author, journalist and TV presenter Ben Macintyre’s talk on his book ‘A Spy Among Friends, Kim Philby and the Great Betrayal’. Kim Philby was the most notorious British defector and Soviet mole in history. Agent, double agent, traitor and enigma, he betrayed every secret of Allied operations to the Russians in the early years of the Cold War. It is followed by the interview we recorded with Ben after his talk, that regular listeners will have heard in this month’s normal podcast, but we have added it here again for completion. This talk was given in our Bletchley Park Presents series last year. Our 2015 season of talks is about to begin, starting with Michael Smith in March and already confirmed for later in the year are Victor Madeira, Jerry White, Taylor Downing &amp; Sinclair McKay with more names yet to be announced. For more information on these talks please go to <a href="http://www.bletchleypark.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.bletchleypark.org</a> and look in the What’s On section. Picture of Ben Macintyre courtesy Jonathan Ring. Cover Image courtesy of Bloomsbury Publishing. #BletchleyPark, #BPark, #Spy, #ColdWar, #BenMacintyre1

Extra - E43 - Ben Macintyre - A Spy Among Friends

August 2016 Hear from a German Enigma operator for the first time in the August 2016 episode of the Bletchley Park Podcast, Enigma from the other side. Sharing her unique story as part of Bletchley Park’s Oral History Project, Irmgard Enge, later Copley, tells how she was part of a secret operation to make sure the Allies did not find out how badly German aeroplanes and munitions factories were being damaged by bombs. She also recalls friendly - and less friendly - French people living near the air base where she was posted. Once the war had ended, Irmgard reluctantly agreed to go to a dance with her friend. She hadn’t wanted to go because there would be British soldiers there and she didn’t want to dance with the enemy. But her friend persuaded her and there she met her husband, an English soldier. Also in this month’s episode, we meet a man who grew up just beyond the boundary fence of Bletchley Park during World War Two. He joined a long queue in the rain to have treasures valued for the BBC antiques show, Flog It. The show’s host, Paul Martin, reveals which items he tries to persuade people to keep, going somewhat against the programme’s underlying principle. Last but not least, change is afoot at the hugely successful 1940s Boutique. The day long workshop and tutorial is opening its doors to customers who want a spot of pampering, without the DIY.  As well as workshops on how to create the iconic looks of the 1940s and 1950s, the experts themselves will be styling customers’ hair and make-up; all in the tranquil surroundings of the Victorian mansion which became the site of some of WW2’s most secret work. Thanks to The Three Belles for the music in this episode, you can find them at www.thethreebelles.com Visit Bletchley Park. It happened here. Book now. Image: ©Bletchley Park Trust #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #Enigma, #WW2Veteran, #History, #Retro, #FlogIt

August 2016 Hear from a German Enigma operator for the first time in the August 2016 episode of the Bletchley Park Podcast, Enigma from the other side. Sharing her unique story as part of Bletchley Park’s Oral History Project, Irmgard Enge, later Copley, tells how she was part of a secret operation to make sure the Allies did not find out how badly German aeroplanes and munitions factories were being damaged by bombs. She also recalls friendly - and less friendly - French people living near the air base where she was posted. Once the war had ended, Irmgard reluctantly agreed to go to a dance with her friend. She hadn’t wanted to go because there would be British soldiers there and she didn’t want to dance with the enemy. But her friend persuaded her and there she met her husband, an English soldier. Also in this month’s episode, we meet a man who grew up just beyond the boundary fence of Bletchley Park during World War Two. He joined a long queue in the rain to have treasures valued for the BBC antiques show, Flog It. The show’s host, Paul Martin, reveals which items he tries to persuade people to keep, going somewhat against the programme’s underlying principle. Last but not least, change is afoot at the hugely successful 1940s Boutique. The day long workshop and tutorial is opening its doors to customers who want a spot of pampering, without the DIY. As well as workshops on how to create the iconic looks of the 1940s and 1950s, the experts themselves will be styling customers’ hair and make-up; all in the tranquil surroundings of the Victorian mansion which became the site of some of WW2’s most secret work. Thanks to The Three Belles for the music in this episode, you can find them at <a href="http://www.thethreebelles.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.thethreebelles.com</a> Visit Bletchley Park. It happened here. Book now. Image: ©Bletchley Park Trust #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #Enigma, #WW2Veteran, #History, #Retro, #FlogIt

E49 - Enigma from the other side

November 2013 In October Cyber Security Challenge UK &amp; Raytheon held an event called Today, Then &amp; Tomorrow.  It looked at the role of women in cyber security, celebrating the Bletchley Park Veterans, leading figures of today &amp; a look into the future.  Here is a flavour of the day featuring Natalie Black, Stephanie Daman, Baroness Pauline Neville-Jones, Dr Brooke Hoskins, Clare McBrearty, Lucy Robson &amp; Bletchley Park Podcast’s, very own, Kerry Howard. #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #cybersecurity, #thentodaytomorrow, #Raytheon, #CyberChallenge, #mcfontaine

November 2013 In October Cyber Security Challenge UK &amp; Raytheon held an event called Today, Then &amp; Tomorrow. It looked at the role of women in cyber security, celebrating the Bletchley Park Veterans, leading figures of today &amp; a look into the future. Here is a flavour of the day featuring Natalie Black, Stephanie Daman, Baroness Pauline Neville-Jones, Dr Brooke Hoskins, Clare McBrearty, Lucy Robson &amp; Bletchley Park Podcast’s, very own, Kerry Howard. #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #cybersecurity, #thentodaytomorrow, #Raytheon, #CyberChallenge, #mcfontaine

Extra - E29 - Women in Cyber Security

March 2018 From the attempt to assassinate Hitler in July 1944, to orders to shoot dead any German soldier seen fleeing Riga as a cowardly traitor, the Hut 3 Headlines tell a story of World War Two in tiny snippet form. They were succinct summaries of Enigma messages sent by the German army and air force, intercepted and deciphered by Bletchley Park. These messages were then boiled down to the barest essentials to be sent to the Prime Minister, Winston Churchill. He’s reputed to have wanted to know everything that was happening, and it’s well established that he was a firm proponent of the power and importance of signals intelligence. But no one man could have waded through the mass of information flowing through the Government Code and Cypher School, let alone a prime minister in the middle of an all-out war. So the Hut 3 Headlines became regular, and sometimes frequent, digests of what he needed to know. Bletchley Park has been digitising these precious documents and now, for the first time, has published a batch of ten, online. In this It Happened Here episode, we get the stories behind the headlines, with help from Bletchley Park’s Research Historian, Dr David Kenyon. We also meet Denis Falvey, one of the dedicated team of volunteers diligently digitising this precious archive and Florence Morgan-Richards, Bletchley Park’s Digitisation and Archive Assistant, who runs that project. We also take you inside the Archive to meet Senior Archivist Guy Revell, who explains why it’s important they’re not kept hidden away. Special thanks go to Mr Ben Thomson for playing the part of our Hut 3 Intelligence Officer in this episode. Image: ©Bletchley Park Trust 2018 #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #Enigma, #WW2

March 2018 From the attempt to assassinate Hitler in July 1944, to orders to shoot dead any German soldier seen fleeing Riga as a cowardly traitor, the Hut 3 Headlines tell a story of World War Two in tiny snippet form. They were succinct summaries of Enigma messages sent by the German army and air force, intercepted and deciphered by Bletchley Park. These messages were then boiled down to the barest essentials to be sent to the Prime Minister, Winston Churchill. He’s reputed to have wanted to know everything that was happening, and it’s well established that he was a firm proponent of the power and importance of signals intelligence. But no one man could have waded through the mass of information flowing through the Government Code and Cypher School, let alone a prime minister in the middle of an all-out war. So the Hut 3 Headlines became regular, and sometimes frequent, digests of what he needed to know. Bletchley Park has been digitising these precious documents and now, for the first time, has published a batch of ten, online. In this It Happened Here episode, we get the stories behind the headlines, with help from Bletchley Park’s Research Historian, Dr David Kenyon. We also meet Denis Falvey, one of the dedicated team of volunteers diligently digitising this precious archive and Florence Morgan-Richards, Bletchley Park’s Digitisation and Archive Assistant, who runs that project. We also take you inside the Archive to meet Senior Archivist Guy Revell, who explains why it’s important they’re not kept hidden away. Special thanks go to Mr Ben Thomson for playing the part of our Hut 3 Intelligence Officer in this episode. Image: ©Bletchley Park Trust 2018 #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #Enigma, #WW2

E70 - Secrets Revealed 

May 2016 This month in the Bletchley Park Podcast’s It Happened Here series, we tell the story of The Bismarck. The iconic German battleship was sunk by the Royal Navy 75 years ago. While this clearly did not happen at Bletchley Park, but in the Atlantic Ocean, codebreaking and some of the pioneering techniques developed as part of it played a crucial role in locating the flagship of the German fleet. Bletchley Park’s Research Historian, Dr David Kenyon, explains how work going on in wooden huts in the Buckinghamshire countryside contributed to the ship’s destruction, which was vital for the Allies, both strategically and symbolically.  Jane Fawcett worked in Hut 6 from 1940. She recalls “It may be the most important thing that any of us have ever done in our lives. We didn’t realise it at the time, but we do now.” Hear about the special Bletchley Park beer being launched at the Fathers’ Day BBQ next month, and there’s news of how the ever-popular 1940s Boutique is expanding. Also in this month’s episode, Dermot Turing opened up his family archive to give a rare insight into the man who’s become a figurehead for the breath-taking achievements of the Bletchley Park Codebreakers, his uncle, Alan Turing. Alan Turing died before Dermot was born but his legend looms large in the family and Dermot has written a book, debunking some of the myths that have grown up about this intriguing man, and giving a unique family perspective on his remarkable work and the tragic end to his life. We hear highlights of Dermot’s talk at Bletchley Park, sharing some of what’s in his book, Prof: Alan Turing Decoded. Visit Bletchley Park. It happened here. Book now. Image: ©shaunarmstrong/mubsta.com In memory of Jane Fawcett, who passed away on 21 May 2016. #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #Enigma, #WW2Veteran, #History, #Turing, #Bismarck

May 2016 This month in the Bletchley Park Podcast’s It Happened Here series, we tell the story of The Bismarck. The iconic German battleship was sunk by the Royal Navy 75 years ago. While this clearly did not happen at Bletchley Park, but in the Atlantic Ocean, codebreaking and some of the pioneering techniques developed as part of it played a crucial role in locating the flagship of the German fleet. Bletchley Park’s Research Historian, Dr David Kenyon, explains how work going on in wooden huts in the Buckinghamshire countryside contributed to the ship’s destruction, which was vital for the Allies, both strategically and symbolically. Jane Fawcett worked in Hut 6 from 1940. She recalls “It may be the most important thing that any of us have ever done in our lives. We didn’t realise it at the time, but we do now.” Hear about the special Bletchley Park beer being launched at the Fathers’ Day BBQ next month, and there’s news of how the ever-popular 1940s Boutique is expanding. Also in this month’s episode, Dermot Turing opened up his family archive to give a rare insight into the man who’s become a figurehead for the breath-taking achievements of the Bletchley Park Codebreakers, his uncle, Alan Turing. Alan Turing died before Dermot was born but his legend looms large in the family and Dermot has written a book, debunking some of the myths that have grown up about this intriguing man, and giving a unique family perspective on his remarkable work and the tragic end to his life. We hear highlights of Dermot’s talk at Bletchley Park, sharing some of what’s in his book, Prof: Alan Turing Decoded. Visit Bletchley Park. It happened here. Book now. Image: ©shaunarmstrong/<a href="http://mubsta.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">mubsta.com</a> In memory of Jane Fawcett, who passed away on 21 May 2016. #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #Enigma, #WW2Veteran, #History, #Turing, #Bismarck

E46 - The Bismarck

September 2019  By early September 1944, with the Normandy Campaign behind them, 6 Allied Armies were racing across Northern France and into the Low Countries. Ahead of them the remnants of the German Army were retreating to the borders of the Fatherland. To many on the Allied side it seemed that a bold action was all that was needed to finish the war by Christmas. The plan called for a carpet of paratroopers to capture and hold bridges along a 64 mile road, allowing an armoured spearhead to reach its goal of the bridge at Arnhem. If successful this would leave the route to the industrial heart of Germany, The Ruhr, wide open. For this “It Happened Here” episode, Bletchley Park’s Research Officer Dr Thomas Cheetham has been looking in detail at the entire operation, including Bletchley Park’s contribution, to tell us if it always was going to be just A Bridge Too Far. Special thanks to Mr Ben Thomson for playing the role of our Hut 3 Intelligence Officer. In memoriam, Eileen Younghusband BEM (1921-2016) WAAF Section Officer #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #WW2, #MarketGarden75

September 2019    By early September 1944, with the Normandy Campaign behind them, 6 Allied Armies were racing across Northern France and into the Low Countries. Ahead of them the remnants of the German Army were retreating to the borders of the Fatherland. To many on the Allied side it seemed that a bold action was all that was needed to finish the war by Christmas.   The plan called for a carpet of paratroopers to capture and hold bridges along a 64 mile road, allowing an armoured spearhead to reach its goal of the bridge at Arnhem. If successful this would leave the route to the industrial heart of Germany, The Ruhr, wide open.   For this “It Happened Here” episode, Bletchley Park’s Research Officer Dr Thomas Cheetham has been looking in detail at the entire operation, including Bletchley Park’s contribution, to tell us if it always was going to be just A Bridge Too Far.   Special thanks to Mr Ben Thomson for playing the role of our Hut 3 Intelligence Officer.   In memoriam, Eileen Younghusband BEM (1921-2016) WAAF Section Officer   #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #WW2, #MarketGarden75

E96 - Market Garden

May 2013 Martin Davidson’s mother told him a family secret shortly after the death of his German Grandfather.  This sent him on a quest to discover the true story of Bruno Langbehn – The Perfect Nazi. This is the first part of a talk given by Martin at Bletchley Park as part of our recent Winter Lecture Season. #BPark, #MartinDavidson, #Bletchleypark

May 2013 Martin Davidson’s mother told him a family secret shortly after the death of his German Grandfather. This sent him on a quest to discover the true story of Bruno Langbehn – The Perfect Nazi. This is the first part of a talk given by Martin at Bletchley Park as part of our recent Winter Lecture Season. #BPark, #MartinDavidson, #Bletchleypark

Extra - E21 - The Perfect Nazi Part 1

Arthur Bonsall

August 2013 In this episode we bring you the full interview with formerBletchley Park Code Breaker &amp; Director of GCHQ, Sir Arthur Bonsall.  He explains the work he carried out in the German Air Section at Bletchley Park, dispels a few BP Myths &amp; tells us why there was a stone for Winston Churchill to stand on when he visited in 1941.  Picture: ©Kate Arkless Gray (@RadioKate) #BPark, #Enigma, #GCHQ, #audiowk

August 2013 In this episode we bring you the full interview with former Bletchley Park Code Breaker &amp; Director of GCHQ, Sir Arthur Bonsall. He explains the work he carried out in the German Air Section at Bletchley Park, dispels a few BP Myths &amp; tells us why there was a stone for Winston Churchill to stand on when he visited in 1941. Picture: ©Kate Arkless Gray (@RadioKate) #BPark, #Enigma, #GCHQ, #audiowk

Extra - E26 - Sir Arthur Bonsall

May 2014 This month, we learn about the doomed German plans to invade Britain in 1940 with Historian &amp; founding member of the Bletchley Park Trust, Peter Wescombe as we join him in the Bletchley Park Archive.  We also take you to the launch of the biography of one of Bletchley Park’s lesser known geniuses, Gordon Welchman. Joel Greenberg has been reading up on &amp; researching Bletchley Park’s World War Two history since the 1970s. He is a Volunteer Tour Guide &amp; works part time at Bletchley Park. His book, Gordon Welchman, Bletchley Park’s Architect of Ultra Intelligence, was launched in the Mansion in the presence of Welchman’s family, who formally handed over artefacts and documents, some of which had been in boxes in his son Nick’s loft for 25 years before Joel started his research. Get a taste of what’s to come at the Bletchley Park Presents series of Sunday afternoon talks &amp; hear from three of the real women of Bletchley Park, Jean Valentine, Ruth Bourne &amp; Betty Webb in a short interview with Bremont Watches founder Giles English. Finally we bring you a Wren’s memories of the absolute secrecy impressed upon her when she arrived. Elizabeth Marshall, nee Tatham, who lives in Ashbourne, Derbyshire, recalls “We were told your family and your friends must not know.’ We sat there absolutely agog, wondering what we had let ourselves in for.” Picture ©Bletchley Park Trust #BPark, #BletchleyPark, #Enigma, #ww2veteran, #Bremont, #mcfontaine

May 2014 This month, we learn about the doomed German plans to invade Britain in 1940 with Historian &amp; founding member of the Bletchley Park Trust, Peter Wescombe as we join him in the Bletchley Park Archive. We also take you to the launch of the biography of one of Bletchley Park’s lesser known geniuses, Gordon Welchman. Joel Greenberg has been reading up on &amp; researching Bletchley Park’s World War Two history since the 1970s. He is a Volunteer Tour Guide &amp; works part time at Bletchley Park. His book, Gordon Welchman, Bletchley Park’s Architect of Ultra Intelligence, was launched in the Mansion in the presence of Welchman’s family, who formally handed over artefacts and documents, some of which had been in boxes in his son Nick’s loft for 25 years before Joel started his research. Get a taste of what’s to come at the Bletchley Park Presents series of Sunday afternoon talks &amp; hear from three of the real women of Bletchley Park, Jean Valentine, Ruth Bourne &amp; Betty Webb in a short interview with Bremont Watches founder Giles English. Finally we bring you a Wren’s memories of the absolute secrecy impressed upon her when she arrived. Elizabeth Marshall, nee Tatham, who lives in Ashbourne, Derbyshire, recalls “We were told your family and your friends must not know.’ We sat there absolutely agog, wondering what we had let ourselves in for.” Picture ©Bletchley Park Trust #BPark, #BletchleyPark, #Enigma, #ww2veteran, #Bremont, #mcfontaine

E22 - A Very, Very Secret Place

Norah Boswell

Joyce Roberts

December 2013 In this month’s Bletchley Park Podcast we brought you some highlights of the day we spent with two amazing Veterans, Norah Boswell, a Wren Bombe Operator who was stationed at Stanmore &amp; Joyce Roberts, a WAAF Teleprinter Operator at Bletchley Park.  In this extended version join tour guide Mike Chapman as we roll back 70 years for these two amazing ladies &amp; listen in as Norah gets her revenge on The Bombe &amp; Joyce finds a dear old friend in the Hut she worked in. It is times like this that make producing the Bletchley Park Podcast such an honour. #BPark, #BletchleyPark, #Bombe, #Enigma, #Veterans, #audiowrangler, #mcfontaine

December 2013 In this month’s Bletchley Park Podcast we brought you some highlights of the day we spent with two amazing Veterans, Norah Boswell, a Wren Bombe Operator who was stationed at Stanmore &amp; Joyce Roberts, a WAAF Teleprinter Operator at Bletchley Park. In this extended version join tour guide Mike Chapman as we roll back 70 years for these two amazing ladies &amp; listen in as Norah gets her revenge on The Bombe &amp; Joyce finds a dear old friend in the Hut she worked in. It is times like this that make producing the Bletchley Park Podcast such an honour. #BPark, #BletchleyPark, #Bombe, #Enigma, #Veterans, #audiowrangler, #mcfontaine

Extra - E30 - Norah Boswell & Joyce Roberts

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