Angels One Five

0:02:18 > 0:02:20Hello, filter room. I have a new track here,

0:02:20 > 0:02:22range of four-five miles,

0:02:22 > 0:02:25bearing one-two-zero.

0:02:25 > 0:02:27No height.

0:02:27 > 0:02:28Here's another track.

0:02:28 > 0:02:29Hostile two-four.

0:02:29 > 0:02:32Sugar one-five-two-five.

0:02:32 > 0:02:3412-plus aircraft.

0:02:34 > 0:02:3512-plus.

0:02:35 > 0:02:38Hostile two-four. Sugar...

0:02:43 > 0:02:4512-plus.

0:02:45 > 0:02:47Hostile two-four. Sugar one-five-two-five.

0:02:47 > 0:02:4912-plus aircraft.

0:02:49 > 0:02:52Fighter seven-eight, 12 at 16,

0:02:52 > 0:02:55"Q" Queenie seven-seven-seven-three south.

0:02:55 > 0:02:56Hostile seven-five.

0:02:56 > 0:02:58100 at 16.

0:02:58 > 0:03:02"S" sugar, three-five, eight-five, east.

0:03:05 > 0:03:08Hello, Neethley. Group controller here. Your controller, please.

0:03:08 > 0:03:10Is that you, Moon?

0:03:10 > 0:03:12Have a look at Raid 24.

0:03:12 > 0:03:1412 aircraft leaving Boulogne.

0:03:14 > 0:03:17Looks as if they're after Tango Convoy passing Dover.

0:03:17 > 0:03:18What's the form?

0:03:18 > 0:03:22Ah, Red Section of 2270 Squadron are patrolling over Tango, sir.

0:03:22 > 0:03:24Ah, no. They're about due for recall.

0:03:24 > 0:03:26They won't have enough petrol left if they have to mix it.

0:03:26 > 0:03:28White section are on their way to relieve them.

0:03:28 > 0:03:29Five-two-one-four...

0:03:29 > 0:03:33I quite agree, sir. I'll get 1320 Squadron off right away.

0:03:33 > 0:03:35Uh, get Pimpernel Red and Yellow Sections in the air, Bonzo.

0:03:35 > 0:03:37Dover 15,000 feet.

0:03:37 > 0:03:39Angels 15, OK.

0:03:39 > 0:03:41MUSIC PLAYS; PHONE RINGS

0:03:41 > 0:03:42Turn that ruddy thing off!

0:03:42 > 0:03:46Scramble Red and Yellow sections, Dover, Angels one-five.

0:03:46 > 0:03:48Scramble, chaps. Red and Yellow, Dover Angels one-five.

0:03:51 > 0:03:53Red and Yellow, Dover. 15,000 feet.

0:03:56 > 0:03:58Come on, Batchy. Customers waiting. I'm coming with you.

0:03:58 > 0:04:00Nice work, skipper!

0:04:45 > 0:04:47Identity card and password, please, sir.

0:04:47 > 0:04:49- You know who I am.- Yes, sir.

0:04:49 > 0:04:51Then you don't need to see my identity card.

0:04:51 > 0:04:53I'm sorry, sir. Sergeant gave me orders to let no-one in

0:04:53 > 0:04:56without examining his identity card and obtaining the password.

0:04:56 > 0:04:59- I give the orders on this station. - I know that, sir.

0:04:59 > 0:05:00Very well.

0:05:00 > 0:05:03But I happen to have left my identity card in my office.

0:05:03 > 0:05:05I'm sorry, sir. I can't let you pass.

0:05:05 > 0:05:08Oh, so you're more scared of your sergeant than you are of me, huh?

0:05:08 > 0:05:08It's not that, sir.

0:05:08 > 0:05:10I happen to know you well, sir.

0:05:10 > 0:05:13But there might be a new man on this job.

0:05:13 > 0:05:15Quite right.

0:05:15 > 0:05:16Well done, Thompson.

0:05:16 > 0:05:18I'm glad to see you're not shaken.

0:05:18 > 0:05:19I'm sorry I bullied you.

0:05:19 > 0:05:20That's all right, sir.

0:05:20 > 0:05:21Thank you, sir.

0:05:23 > 0:05:24Well, what is it now?

0:05:24 > 0:05:26You haven't given me the password, sir.

0:05:26 > 0:05:28Good man. You've got your wits about you.

0:05:28 > 0:05:31- The word is "crocus." - Thank you, sir.

0:05:35 > 0:05:37Think I'd fall for that one?

0:05:37 > 0:05:39Group Captain Tiger Ruddy Small.

0:05:40 > 0:05:42- The Tiger.- 'Hello, Sapper, Sapper,

0:05:42 > 0:05:46'Beeswax White One calling, in position. Hello.'

0:05:46 > 0:05:47Hello, White One,

0:05:47 > 0:05:48Sapper answering.

0:05:48 > 0:05:51OK. OK. Out.

0:05:51 > 0:05:52Hello, Beeswax, Red One.

0:05:52 > 0:05:55Red One. You may pancake,

0:05:55 > 0:05:57Vector two-eight-five. Over.

0:06:00 > 0:06:02Hello, Sapper, Sapper.

0:06:02 > 0:06:04Beeswax Red One answering.

0:06:04 > 0:06:05Thank you, Sapper. Out.

0:06:05 > 0:06:07Put Hostile two-four on the screen, please.

0:06:07 > 0:06:09- Afternoon, Peter.- Afternoon, sir.

0:06:09 > 0:06:10What's going on?

0:06:10 > 0:06:12Usual stuff. They're after a convoy.

0:06:12 > 0:06:13So I see.

0:06:13 > 0:06:15Serial five-six.

0:06:15 > 0:06:19Red and Yellow Section, 1320 Squadron.

0:06:19 > 0:06:22Intercept Raid 24.

0:06:22 > 0:06:25If only they'd stick to convoys.

0:06:26 > 0:06:30Hello, Pimpernel Leader, Pimpernel Leader, Sapper calling.

0:06:30 > 0:06:33What are your Angels now? Over.

0:06:35 > 0:06:37You got any special information, sir?

0:06:37 > 0:06:40No. But it can't be paying them much of a dividend, can it?

0:06:40 > 0:06:42'Hello, Sapper. Leader answering.

0:06:42 > 0:06:45'Angels one-five. Out.'

0:06:45 > 0:06:47It's not likely to as long as we have a few Hurricanes airborne.

0:06:47 > 0:06:50'Hello, Sapper. Pimpernel Leader calling.

0:06:50 > 0:06:52'I'm in position. Out.'

0:06:52 > 0:06:54The same idea must be dawning in the mind

0:06:54 > 0:06:56of Reichsmarshal Goering.

0:06:56 > 0:06:57Meaning?

0:06:57 > 0:07:00Hello, Pimpernel Leader. Sapper calling.

0:07:00 > 0:07:04Vector one-three-five, bandits ahead of you...

0:07:04 > 0:07:07Ahead of you, Angels one-five. Over.

0:07:07 > 0:07:10Well, obviously, sooner or later - sooner is my guess -

0:07:10 > 0:07:13he'll employ some of the 3,000 aircraft he has at his disposal

0:07:13 > 0:07:15to prevent our Hurries being airborne.

0:07:15 > 0:07:17It's up to 3,000, is it, now?

0:07:17 > 0:07:21Yes, he's got something like that between Brest and Amsterdam.

0:07:21 > 0:07:24I reckon that makes the odds about five to one.

0:07:24 > 0:07:27Well, more than that if you discount our squadrons tied down in the north.

0:07:27 > 0:07:30Well, call it six to one, sir. We can cope with that.

0:07:30 > 0:07:34'Hello, Sapper, Sapper. Pimpernel Leader calling.

0:07:34 > 0:07:35'Tally ho, tally ho!'

0:07:42 > 0:07:44Nice work, Peter.

0:07:44 > 0:07:47Thank you, sir.

0:07:47 > 0:07:51Sometimes I think Bill Ponsford could find a Jerry in a fog without my assistance.

0:07:54 > 0:07:57Been getting any flying lately?

0:07:57 > 0:08:00A few circuits and bumps in the station Maggie

0:08:00 > 0:08:03just to remind myself what it feels like to be airborne.

0:08:03 > 0:08:05As air attache in Turkey, I didn't get much chance

0:08:05 > 0:08:06to fly modern type fighters.

0:08:06 > 0:08:08I realise that.

0:08:08 > 0:08:10You must get yourself up in a Hurricane, Peter.

0:08:10 > 0:08:12It's time you caught up with the rest of us.

0:08:12 > 0:08:14There's nothing I should like better.

0:08:14 > 0:08:16But I don't want to use the hours when we're so short of aircraft.

0:08:16 > 0:08:17Oh, never mind about that.

0:08:17 > 0:08:20Oh, by the way, there are three replacement aircraft due in this afternoon.

0:08:20 > 0:08:23One of the pilots is joining us, a chap named Baird.

0:08:23 > 0:08:25A volunteer reservist, I believe.

0:08:25 > 0:08:26Very good, sir.

0:08:26 > 0:08:28And don't forget, Peter,

0:08:28 > 0:08:30get yourself up in a Hurricane.

0:08:30 > 0:08:33Don't worry, I will, when I can find the time.

0:08:33 > 0:08:35You must make the time, Peter.

0:08:35 > 0:08:37Get Clinton to take on more of your work.

0:08:37 > 0:08:38He should be capable by now.

0:08:38 > 0:08:40Oh, Barry Clinton's all right, sir.

0:08:40 > 0:08:43All he wants is a little more experience to gain confidence, that's all.

0:08:43 > 0:08:45Tell Squadron Leader Clinton for me

0:08:45 > 0:08:48that he won't gain experience by digging in his garden.

0:08:53 > 0:08:55Barry? Oh, Barry, darling.

0:08:55 > 0:08:56- Hello?- Please come in.

0:08:56 > 0:08:58- What's the matter, dear? - Come here.

0:09:01 > 0:09:03It's that flaming policeman, darling.

0:09:03 > 0:09:04He won't stop bullying me

0:09:04 > 0:09:06about the blackout in the top landing window.

0:09:06 > 0:09:08But didn't you tell him why we keep the curtains open?

0:09:08 > 0:09:11Of course I did. But he won't take it from me.

0:09:11 > 0:09:13Come on.

0:09:13 > 0:09:15Ah, good afternoon, Constable.

0:09:15 > 0:09:17Well, what seems to be the trouble?

0:09:17 > 0:09:19Trouble, sir?

0:09:19 > 0:09:21It's a matter of your blackout.

0:09:21 > 0:09:23Front window blazing at night.

0:09:23 > 0:09:25Hardly blazing, old man. It's only a 40-watt bulb.

0:09:25 > 0:09:28Well, I understand it's possible to see a naked light.

0:09:28 > 0:09:30You manage to make it sound quite indecent.

0:09:30 > 0:09:33Didn't my wife explain that our house faces the end of the runway

0:09:33 > 0:09:35and we keep the light on to help the pilots landing after dark?

0:09:35 > 0:09:38Well, she has, sir, but that's as may be.

0:09:38 > 0:09:40It's still contrary to the regulations.

0:09:40 > 0:09:42But, my dear chap, it's done at the express request

0:09:42 > 0:09:45of Group Captain Small, the station commander.

0:09:45 > 0:09:48You're not trying to incite me to disobey my superior officer, are you?

0:09:48 > 0:09:50No, sir. I wouldn't want to do that.

0:09:50 > 0:09:52But you see how it is, sir.

0:09:52 > 0:09:55Isn't there something else you could do?

0:09:55 > 0:09:57Hang out a red light, for instance.

0:09:57 > 0:10:00Well, it's an interesting idea.

0:10:12 > 0:10:16Fighter one-two "R" Robert zero-five-niner-one, west.

0:10:16 > 0:10:18Who might that be, do you suppose?

0:10:18 > 0:10:21Some senior officer stooging around, I expect.

0:10:27 > 0:10:29Thank you, sir.

0:10:29 > 0:10:32Group say it's the first of our replacement aircraft, call sign Elfin One.

0:10:32 > 0:10:36A ruddy fine time to arrive with Pimpernel due back any minute.

0:10:36 > 0:10:38Hello, Pimpernel Leader. Pimpernel Leader.

0:10:38 > 0:10:40How are you getting on? Over.

0:10:40 > 0:10:43'Hello, Sapper, Sapper, Pimpernel Leader answering.

0:10:43 > 0:10:44'Bandits have turned away.

0:10:44 > 0:10:48'We are returning to base. Over.'

0:10:48 > 0:10:50'Hello, Sapper. Hello, Sapper.

0:10:50 > 0:10:51'Elfin One calling.

0:10:51 > 0:10:55'Are you receiving me? Over to Sapper. Over.'

0:10:55 > 0:10:57Hello, Elfin One. Sapper answering.

0:10:57 > 0:10:58Yes, I am receiving you.

0:10:58 > 0:11:01Steer two-four-zero. Over.

0:11:01 > 0:11:04'Hello, Sapper. Hello, Sapper.'

0:11:04 > 0:11:06Elfin One calling. Elfin One calling.

0:11:06 > 0:11:09I can see base. I can see base.

0:11:09 > 0:11:11'Have I permission to land?

0:11:11 > 0:11:14'Is this understood? Over.'

0:11:14 > 0:11:15Hello, Elfin One. Sapper answering.

0:11:15 > 0:11:18Get down as quick as you can. Over.

0:11:18 > 0:11:20'Hello, Sapper. Hello, Sapper.

0:11:20 > 0:11:24'Elfin One answering. Elfin One answering.

0:11:24 > 0:11:27'Your message received and understood.

0:11:27 > 0:11:32'Listening out. Listening out. Out.'

0:11:32 > 0:11:34That's what I call a really conscientious type.

0:11:34 > 0:11:37Warn the practice flight, Bonzo.

0:12:20 > 0:12:22Look out!

0:12:44 > 0:12:47Hello, old man. Dropped in for tea?

0:12:47 > 0:12:49Thought there'd be more room at the end of the runway.

0:12:49 > 0:12:53Well, our guests do usually park their aircraft up there, I'll admit.

0:12:53 > 0:12:55- Hurt your neck?- It's nothing much.

0:12:55 > 0:12:59I think I must have strained my ligamentum nuchae.

0:12:59 > 0:13:00Your what?

0:13:00 > 0:13:03It's the big tendon at the back of your neck which keeps your head up.

0:13:03 > 0:13:04You must have noticed it in cows.

0:13:04 > 0:13:07I'm afraid I haven't. Should I have done?

0:13:07 > 0:13:10We haven't introduced ourselves. I'm Barry Clinton, sector controller,

0:13:10 > 0:13:12lowest form of life. This is my wife Nadine.

0:13:12 > 0:13:14How do you do, ma'am? My name is Baird.

0:13:14 > 0:13:16I've been posted to this station.

0:13:16 > 0:13:18I was bringing in a replacement aircraft.

0:13:18 > 0:13:20A replacement?

0:13:20 > 0:13:22Something tells me you're not going to be very popular.

0:13:22 > 0:13:23It wasn't my fault, sir.

0:13:23 > 0:13:25Another aircraft cut right across in front of me.

0:13:25 > 0:13:26It was a mercy we didn't collide.

0:13:26 > 0:13:28It certainly was.

0:13:28 > 0:13:29- Hello, men.- Hello, Barry.

0:13:29 > 0:13:30What have we here?

0:13:30 > 0:13:34- One pilot, one Hurricane, both slightly bent.- Hm.

0:13:34 > 0:13:35Hi, Doc.

0:13:35 > 0:13:37Let me introduce you. Pilot officer Baird.

0:13:37 > 0:13:38Hate to disappoint you,

0:13:38 > 0:13:41but I don't think you'll need your blood wagon.

0:13:41 > 0:13:43All right, Casey, I shan't be needing you.

0:13:44 > 0:13:46- No bones broken?- No, sir.

0:13:46 > 0:13:50You're a lucky chap. No strains, sprains, pains, or blains?

0:13:50 > 0:13:51He's got a ligamentum whatsit.

0:13:51 > 0:13:54She means ligamentum nuchae, sir. I think I've strained it.

0:13:54 > 0:13:56Hm. What makes you think that?

0:13:56 > 0:13:59I'm a medical student, sir. Or at least I was till the war started.

0:13:59 > 0:14:00It's nothing much.

0:14:00 > 0:14:03All the same, I think we'd better have a second opinion, don't you?

0:14:03 > 0:14:05Let's have a look at it.

0:14:06 > 0:14:10Hm. I'll give you a lift back to sick quarters in the ambulance.

0:14:13 > 0:14:16I'm sorry to have caused you all this trouble, sir.

0:14:16 > 0:14:18That's all right, old man. See you in the mess, I hope.

0:14:18 > 0:14:19Goodbye, Mrs Clinton.

0:14:45 > 0:14:48Batchy! You old pirate!

0:14:48 > 0:14:49- Batchy!- Where have you been?

0:14:49 > 0:14:50I thought you'd bought it.

0:14:50 > 0:14:52So did I, Skipper. So did I.

0:14:52 > 0:14:56I saw you go down after that one-one-oh, but I was too busy myself to see what happened.

0:14:56 > 0:14:57Oh, that one.

0:14:57 > 0:15:00Another Jerry crew will be swimming back to base this evening.

0:15:00 > 0:15:01- Good show.- Whizzo, Batchy!

0:15:01 > 0:15:02Did you get shot up?

0:15:02 > 0:15:04Only a teeny-weenie one in me glycol tank.

0:15:04 > 0:15:06And another in my radio.

0:15:06 > 0:15:09So I decided to fizz back to base while I still had some height.

0:15:11 > 0:15:12Glad you made it.

0:15:12 > 0:15:15And that ends our bedtime story for tonight, kiddies.

0:15:15 > 0:15:17Hold it, chaps!

0:15:17 > 0:15:18You haven't heard the half of it.

0:15:18 > 0:15:22I'm putting meself down nice and comfortable on dear old Neethley

0:15:22 > 0:15:26when an angry great Hurricane comes roaring at me down the runway.

0:15:26 > 0:15:27"This is it," I said to meself.

0:15:27 > 0:15:30- Silver handles and hello, Saint Peter.- What did you do?

0:15:30 > 0:15:31What could I do, you twerp?

0:15:31 > 0:15:35I just shut my eyes and the whole of my past life loomed up before me.

0:15:35 > 0:15:37What a shocking experience.

0:15:37 > 0:15:38And when I opened them again,

0:15:38 > 0:15:41this other chap had hopped over me back like a flea on a dog's tail.

0:15:41 > 0:15:44# They were only playing leap frog

0:15:44 > 0:15:45# They were only playing leap frog... #

0:15:45 > 0:15:47Shut up!

0:15:47 > 0:15:49What a copper-bottomed ape.

0:15:49 > 0:15:52- Who was it?- Oh, some ferry type with a replacement Hurrie, so they tell me.

0:15:52 > 0:15:54A replacement? Where is it now?

0:15:54 > 0:15:57Standing on its prop in Barry Clinton's garden, I believe.

0:15:57 > 0:15:59By heaven, if he's written it off, I'll tear him apart.

0:15:59 > 0:16:01- Where is he?- Doc took him down to station sick quarters.

0:16:01 > 0:16:05- He'll be sorry he didn't write himself off when I'm through with him.- Oh, now, wait a minute.

0:16:05 > 0:16:07He didn't prang me and I was landing cross wind.

0:16:07 > 0:16:09What the hell has that got to do with it?

0:16:09 > 0:16:10This is an operational station.

0:16:10 > 0:16:14Pie-eyed ferry types should know darn well they've got to keep out of the way.

0:16:14 > 0:16:16Might have slaughtered an experienced pilot.

0:16:16 > 0:16:18As it is he's written off an invaluable aircraft.

0:16:18 > 0:16:20God, how we need them.

0:16:20 > 0:16:22Hello, Bonzo? This is Bill Ponsford.

0:16:22 > 0:16:23I want to speak to Peter Moon.

0:16:23 > 0:16:26Oh, hang it all, Skipper. He put up a pretty good show, really.

0:16:26 > 0:16:30- I mean, he must have had his finger out to hop over me like that. - Shut up, Batchy! I mean that.

0:16:30 > 0:16:31Hello, Peter.

0:16:31 > 0:16:34Hello, Bill. What's eating you?

0:16:34 > 0:16:35MUFFLED SHOUTING

0:16:36 > 0:16:39Steady, old man. I know how you feel.

0:16:41 > 0:16:47Yes, yes, I grant you, Batchy is more valuable than a thousand non-operational types, but...

0:16:47 > 0:16:48Look, let me speak, will you?

0:16:48 > 0:16:52"A" and one, Batchy came in at naught feet and we got no warning.

0:16:52 > 0:16:54"B" and two, this sap is not a ferry pilot -

0:16:54 > 0:16:58he's an operational type, or soon will be.

0:16:58 > 0:16:59He's posted to your squadron.

0:16:59 > 0:17:02What? I won't have the damn fellow near my outfit.

0:17:02 > 0:17:04And you can tell that to the Tiger.

0:17:04 > 0:17:06I sympathise, old man,

0:17:06 > 0:17:08but you can tell the Tiger yourself.

0:17:21 > 0:17:24- Bring me a pint, will you, Price? - Very good, sir.

0:17:34 > 0:17:38- Hello, Baird. Settling in all right?- Yes, thank you, sir.

0:17:38 > 0:17:40Good. Made your number with the old man yet?

0:17:40 > 0:17:42He wasn't there when I reported to the adjutant.

0:17:42 > 0:17:43Oh, he's in the anteroom now.

0:17:43 > 0:17:46- Have a drink. - Not just now, thank you, sir.

0:17:46 > 0:17:48Oh, well, if you're not drinking, I'll toddle off home.

0:17:48 > 0:17:51You see, I have a lonely wife that needs comforting.

0:17:51 > 0:17:54You'll find Squadron Leader Ponsford in there.

0:17:54 > 0:17:55He's the squadron CO.

0:17:55 > 0:17:57- I should make myself known to him. - Oh, thanks, sir, I will.

0:17:57 > 0:18:01- Good. Cheerio. - Good night, sir. Cheerio.

0:18:08 > 0:18:11LAUGHTER AND SHOUTING

0:18:29 > 0:18:31Oh. I spy strangers.

0:18:31 > 0:18:33Are you looking for someone, old chap?

0:18:33 > 0:18:36I'm...I'm looking for the CO of 1320 Squadron.

0:18:36 > 0:18:37Ah. Well hold on a minute.

0:18:37 > 0:18:39Are you down there, Bill?

0:18:39 > 0:18:41- Yes, I'm down here.- Oh.

0:18:43 > 0:18:44What is it, Batchy?

0:18:44 > 0:18:48An air force officer wishes to hold converse with you.

0:18:48 > 0:18:51Well, I'm Ponsford. You want me?

0:18:51 > 0:18:52I've been posted to your squadron.

0:18:52 > 0:18:55I'm Pilot Officer Baird, sir. TB Baird.

0:18:55 > 0:18:56TB?

0:18:56 > 0:18:59Sounds a bit septic to me.

0:18:59 > 0:19:03So you're the type who nearly wrote off my best flight commander

0:19:03 > 0:19:05and pranged a replacement aircraft.

0:19:05 > 0:19:09I'm sorry about that, sir. It wasn't really my fault.

0:19:09 > 0:19:11What do you mean, it wasn't your fault?

0:19:11 > 0:19:13The other chap came in bang across wind without making a circuit.

0:19:13 > 0:19:17The other chap was a squadron aircraft returning from operations.

0:19:17 > 0:19:20- Well, that may be, sir, but I had permission to land.- Permission?

0:19:20 > 0:19:23What permission? There's no such thing.

0:19:23 > 0:19:24Operations told me to get down at once.

0:19:24 > 0:19:26Well, what if they did?

0:19:26 > 0:19:30That doesn't give you the right to go barging around like a blind bull in a china shop.

0:19:30 > 0:19:33My name is Small. I'm the station commander.

0:19:33 > 0:19:35Oh, that's all right. There's no need to stand on ceremony.

0:19:35 > 0:19:38This is where we relax, as you may have noticed.

0:19:38 > 0:19:40Thank you, sir.

0:19:40 > 0:19:43You look as though you could do with a drink. Come along. I'll get you one.

0:19:43 > 0:19:45You're a volunteer reserve, I see.

0:19:45 > 0:19:46Something of a novelty in these parts.

0:19:46 > 0:19:50Yes, sir. I joined my university squadron at the time of Munich.

0:19:50 > 0:19:52- What were you reading? - Medicine, sir.

0:19:52 > 0:19:54And you chucked up that to join the air force?

0:19:54 > 0:19:57- Naturally, sir.- Why naturally?

0:19:57 > 0:19:58I'd learned to fly.

0:19:58 > 0:20:00The war's won by pilots, not by doctors.

0:20:00 > 0:20:03- You think so?- Don't you, sir?

0:20:03 > 0:20:07Oh, I suppose I should. I'm a professional fighter. Perhaps my views are a bit narrow.

0:20:07 > 0:20:10Oh, what will you have to drink? I think there are a few Scotch ales left.

0:20:10 > 0:20:12Thank you, sir.

0:20:13 > 0:20:15- How's the neck?- Oh, fine, sir.

0:20:15 > 0:20:16A wee bit stiff, but that will soon wear off, sir.

0:20:16 > 0:20:18As a medico, you should know.

0:20:18 > 0:20:19Yes, sir.

0:20:20 > 0:20:23Do I join the squadron tomorrow, sir?

0:20:23 > 0:20:25Well, we won't talk shop now. This is my play time.

0:20:25 > 0:20:27You'd better come and see me in my office in the morning.

0:20:27 > 0:20:29- I'll be there, sir.- Skol.

0:20:36 > 0:20:38Now pay attention, all of you!

0:20:38 > 0:20:42You've been sent here to guard this aerodrome.

0:20:42 > 0:20:43And guard it you will,

0:20:43 > 0:20:46against all unauthorised persons,

0:20:46 > 0:20:50saboteurs, and assaults from the enemy. And while you're here,

0:20:50 > 0:20:54you will uphold the traditions of the army before the RAF,

0:20:54 > 0:20:58being punctilious and paying respects to their officers.

0:20:58 > 0:21:00Now, a word of warning.

0:21:01 > 0:21:02Their sergeant majors -

0:21:02 > 0:21:06what they call warrant officers,

0:21:06 > 0:21:08and of which they have a great multitude -

0:21:08 > 0:21:12dresses very like the real officer.

0:21:12 > 0:21:15We don't want no accidents.

0:21:15 > 0:21:17Understand?

0:21:18 > 0:21:21You don't salute me, so you won't salute them.

0:21:21 > 0:21:22Parade!

0:21:22 > 0:21:25Attention!

0:21:27 > 0:21:29For your information,

0:21:29 > 0:21:32that was a pilot officer.

0:21:32 > 0:21:35BARKS ORDERS

0:21:35 > 0:21:38Stand at ease!

0:21:40 > 0:21:41Come in.

0:21:46 > 0:21:48What can I do for you?

0:21:48 > 0:21:50I have an appointment with the station commander, sir.

0:21:50 > 0:21:52He's busy just now. Better take a seat.

0:21:52 > 0:21:53He asked me to come and see him.

0:21:53 > 0:21:55I daresay he did.

0:21:55 > 0:21:57You're not our only customer, you know.

0:21:57 > 0:21:59Sit down.

0:22:06 > 0:22:10The old man's ready to hear the charge now.

0:22:15 > 0:22:17Accused!

0:22:17 > 0:22:20Witness escort accused, party attention!

0:22:20 > 0:22:22Right turn! Quick march!

0:22:22 > 0:22:25Left, right, left, right, left, right, left wheel...

0:22:25 > 0:22:27Party, right!

0:22:27 > 0:22:29Hello, Baird.

0:22:29 > 0:22:32I gather you're joining me in the hole for a while.

0:22:32 > 0:22:33The hole, sir?

0:22:33 > 0:22:36It's what the irreverent call the operations room.

0:22:36 > 0:22:41- Operations room? But I'm a pilot. - So, if you observe closely, am I.

0:22:41 > 0:22:43I realise that, sir, but it's not quite the same thing, is it?

0:22:43 > 0:22:46- Why not?- Well, I mean, you're a squadron leader, sir.

0:22:46 > 0:22:50- Which might suggest that I'm the more experienced pilot than you. - You don't get the point, sir.

0:22:50 > 0:22:52Perhaps not, but I'm not going to argue the toss.

0:22:52 > 0:22:55If you're sent to the hole, that's where you'll go.

0:22:55 > 0:22:57Believe me, it has its uses. Even for pilots.

0:23:02 > 0:23:06Has it ever occurred to you that using a crib in a trade examination is a very stupid offence?

0:23:06 > 0:23:08It doesn't help to win the war. It doesn't help the air force.

0:23:08 > 0:23:11- It doesn't even help you in your work, does it?- No, sir.

0:23:11 > 0:23:14- Do you know whom you're serving? - Yes, sir. You, sir.

0:23:14 > 0:23:17No, you're not, any more than I'm serving the air officer commanding a group.

0:23:17 > 0:23:19We're both serving the King. Part of the same team.

0:23:19 > 0:23:20- Do you understand?- Yes.

0:23:20 > 0:23:23Cribs won't help us. Supposing I'm flying an aircraft, it gets into a spin.

0:23:23 > 0:23:26Christmas daisies, where's my crib? And before I can find the right piece,

0:23:26 > 0:23:29there's Saint Peter tap tapping on my fuselage demanding my soul of me.

0:23:29 > 0:23:31Think that one over.

0:23:31 > 0:23:33Admonished. March out.

0:23:33 > 0:23:35Admonished!

0:23:36 > 0:23:39Witnesses escort accused, right turn!

0:23:39 > 0:23:42Wake up! Right wheel. Quick march!

0:23:42 > 0:23:46Left, right, left right, left right, left.

0:23:49 > 0:23:52Pilot Officer Baird is waiting to see you, sir.

0:23:52 > 0:23:54Oh, yes. Send him in.

0:24:00 > 0:24:02KNOCKING

0:24:02 > 0:24:04Come in, Baird.

0:24:07 > 0:24:10All right, relax.

0:24:10 > 0:24:11How's the neck this morning?

0:24:11 > 0:24:12Mm, pretty good, sir.

0:24:12 > 0:24:15The MO seems to think it'll take two to three weeks to get right.

0:24:15 > 0:24:17He's a very cautious man, sir.

0:24:17 > 0:24:20That's a quality I approve in doctors.

0:24:21 > 0:24:25Sir, is it because of that you're sending me to the operations room?

0:24:25 > 0:24:29Oh, Squadron Leader Moon's told you, has he?

0:24:29 > 0:24:30Yes, that's the reason.

0:24:30 > 0:24:32But I can fly perfectly well, sir.

0:24:32 > 0:24:35If you mean aviate around the sky, I've no doubt you can.

0:24:35 > 0:24:37But that's not what we're here for, Baird.

0:24:37 > 0:24:41- Operational flying's a very different matter. - I'm sure I'd be all right, sir.

0:24:41 > 0:24:45- Ever heard of the Messerschmitt twitch?- No, sir.

0:24:45 > 0:24:48It's a nervous complaint contracted by fighter pilots.

0:24:48 > 0:24:50It comes from constantly looking over your shoulder

0:24:50 > 0:24:53to see if there's a Jerry on your tail.

0:24:53 > 0:24:57You'd find that a bit difficult, wouldn't you?

0:24:57 > 0:24:59I'll risk that, sir.

0:25:04 > 0:25:06Understand this, Baird.

0:25:06 > 0:25:09I'm not in the least interested whether you get shot down or not.

0:25:09 > 0:25:13All I'm interested in is the efficiency of the squadrons under my command.

0:25:13 > 0:25:15The squadron is a team.

0:25:15 > 0:25:18Each member must have complete confidence in every other in attack or defence.

0:25:18 > 0:25:21It takes quite a time to build such a team.

0:25:21 > 0:25:22And I'm not going to jeopardise

0:25:22 > 0:25:24one of the finest squadrons in fighter command

0:25:24 > 0:25:27just so that you can poop off your guns.

0:25:27 > 0:25:29- Is that clear?- Yes, sir.

0:25:29 > 0:25:31Good.

0:25:31 > 0:25:34Now I suggest that you get along and report to the operations room.

0:25:34 > 0:25:37If you've got any sense and you keep your eyes and ears open, you could learn a lot.

0:25:37 > 0:25:40If I had my way, all pilots would do a spell in there.

0:25:42 > 0:25:44Thank you, sir.

0:25:45 > 0:25:48Good luck, Baird.

0:25:48 > 0:25:52Now, don't try and rush your fences. You've got a good report up to now.

0:25:52 > 0:25:56Just ease back and take things in for a bit, hm?

0:25:56 > 0:25:58Yes, sir.

0:26:05 > 0:26:07Squadron Leader Ponsford to see you, sir.

0:26:07 > 0:26:09- Ah, come in, Bill.- Morning, sir.

0:26:09 > 0:26:10Morning. Have a cigarette.

0:26:10 > 0:26:11Oh, thanks very much.

0:26:11 > 0:26:13You want to talk to me about Baird, I suppose.

0:26:13 > 0:26:15Well, yes, sir, I did, as a matter of fact.

0:26:15 > 0:26:19Well, don't worry yourself. He's not fit for operational flying yet.

0:26:19 > 0:26:20In fact, it's just as well, anyway.

0:26:20 > 0:26:23I'm posting him non-effective to Moon in the operations room.

0:26:23 > 0:26:26Thank heaven for that. Poor old Peter.

0:26:26 > 0:26:28Oh, don't underestimate that boy.

0:26:28 > 0:26:31He's keen, and from his record, an above-average pilot.

0:26:31 > 0:26:33Well, he started here with a big enough black.

0:26:33 > 0:26:35Yes, I know how you feel about it.

0:26:35 > 0:26:37I was going to tear him off a strip myself

0:26:37 > 0:26:39but it's not the right treatment.

0:26:39 > 0:26:42He just doesn't understand what squadron esprit is about, and...

0:26:42 > 0:26:45Anyway, he's suffering from a big enough sense of injustice already.

0:26:45 > 0:26:48Ah, hello, Baird. I was expecting you.

0:26:48 > 0:26:49Make yourself at home.

0:26:53 > 0:26:56We rather pride ourselves on our hole.

0:26:56 > 0:27:00Not quite such a gin palace as some of them, but it has its exclusive features.

0:27:00 > 0:27:03That glass wall map, for instance, where we stick our own fighters,

0:27:03 > 0:27:05and any raids we're especially interested in.

0:27:05 > 0:27:09Ops "B" with his lines to Squadron Dispersal.

0:27:09 > 0:27:13Ops "A" in touch with her counterpart at Group.

0:27:13 > 0:27:17Our brown colleagues, ack-ack and searchlight liaison.

0:27:17 > 0:27:20And, of course, the beauty chorus.

0:27:21 > 0:27:24Every girl hand-picked.

0:27:30 > 0:27:32You don't seem to approve of our domestic activities.

0:27:32 > 0:27:34It's not that, sir.

0:27:34 > 0:27:36A bit surprised, that's all.

0:27:36 > 0:27:38You know, it's a peculiarity of the female

0:27:38 > 0:27:40that she can only relax by being busy.

0:27:40 > 0:27:43I suppose it is.

0:27:43 > 0:27:45You don't seem very impressed.

0:27:45 > 0:27:47Group Controller on the line, sir,

0:27:47 > 0:27:48about Raid 7-5. Wants to talk to you.

0:27:48 > 0:27:50There, see? That's what comes of nattering to you.

0:27:50 > 0:27:52- Clear the deck, Soss. - Serial nine-6.

0:27:52 > 0:27:55- OK, I'll take it on this phone. - Two sections, 2270 Squadron.

0:27:55 > 0:27:58- Neethley Controller here, sir. - Patrol Ramsgate 12,000 feet.

0:27:58 > 0:28:02Yes, sir, we've two sections on patrol over Ashford, sir.

0:28:02 > 0:28:03OK, sir.

0:28:03 > 0:28:05Scramble Beeswax Blue and Green, Tom.

0:28:05 > 0:28:07Ramsgate 12,000 feet.

0:28:07 > 0:28:10Hello, Beeswax dispersal. Scramble Blue and Green.

0:28:10 > 0:28:12Morning, Tom. Morning, sir.

0:28:12 > 0:28:17Wotcher, Septic, you old assassin. So this is where you hide.

0:28:17 > 0:28:20Well, don't look so boot-faced, old boy. No offence meant.

0:28:20 > 0:28:22But after all, you did very nearly land

0:28:22 > 0:28:24on my cockpit cover, you know.

0:28:24 > 0:28:27- You were coming in cross wind. - Oh, absolutely, old boy.

0:28:27 > 0:28:30Shocking display. Quite Second XI.

0:28:30 > 0:28:34Trouble was, some Jerry with evil intent had perforated my glycol tank.

0:28:35 > 0:28:39You mean you were shot up? Nobody told me that.

0:28:39 > 0:28:40I'm very sorry, sir.

0:28:40 > 0:28:43Think nothing of it, Septic, my lad. Happens every day.

0:28:43 > 0:28:47Only some of them aren't lucky enough to find a runway to park down on.

0:28:47 > 0:28:49Things are beginning to hum.

0:28:49 > 0:28:51I have a feeling our absence might be acceptable.

0:28:51 > 0:28:53Come down to dispersal and meet the boys.

0:28:53 > 0:28:55I can't leave here, I'm afraid.

0:28:55 > 0:28:58Good idea. I can't see the table through the back of your head, anyway.

0:28:58 > 0:29:01- Thanks, sir. - Come on.

0:29:01 > 0:29:04I must say, I thought it rather raw myself.

0:29:04 > 0:29:08But the Skipper's apt to be a bit touchy about his replacement aircraft.

0:29:08 > 0:29:10Pity you didn't open up and go round again.

0:29:10 > 0:29:13Well, I tried. Of course I tried. She wouldn't pick up.

0:29:13 > 0:29:14A habit they have if you do it too quickly.

0:29:14 > 0:29:16Well, it had to be quick. There wasn't much time, you know.

0:29:16 > 0:29:18Oh, absolutely, old boy. A thoroughly shaky do.

0:29:18 > 0:29:21I say, look here, I wouldn't take the CO's outbursts

0:29:21 > 0:29:23too much to heart if I were you.

0:29:23 > 0:29:24He's a desperately keen type.

0:29:24 > 0:29:27A wizard squadron CO and all that sort of thing.

0:29:27 > 0:29:29But he's apt to be a bit touchy sometimes.

0:29:29 > 0:29:32He he's been at it an awful long time.

0:29:32 > 0:29:36But he's pure gold when you scrape down. Absolutely pure gold.

0:29:37 > 0:29:40Do you mind if I have a look over Jemima while I'm here?

0:29:40 > 0:29:42No.

0:29:42 > 0:29:43How's it going, Wailes?

0:29:43 > 0:29:46Sliding a bit easier now, sir.

0:29:46 > 0:29:48Give me an hour, sir, and I'll have it running like silk.

0:29:48 > 0:29:51Good show. I hear they nearly clapped you in the cooler this morning.

0:29:51 > 0:29:53- It won't do, Wailes. - No, sir.

0:29:53 > 0:29:55How the hell do you expect me to fly if me rigger's in chokey?

0:29:55 > 0:29:56Very sorry, sir.

0:29:56 > 0:30:00- You're a clot, Wailes. - Yes, sir.

0:30:08 > 0:30:10Now, that's a good tip, Septic.

0:30:10 > 0:30:14Never get into a kite until you're sure you can get out, pronto.

0:30:14 > 0:30:17There's many a keen type plucking his harp now

0:30:17 > 0:30:19because his cockpit wouldn't open up in time.

0:30:19 > 0:30:21I'll remember that.

0:30:21 > 0:30:23- We've come to readiness, sir. - Good-o, Pete. Thanks very much.

0:30:23 > 0:30:24That's Peter Haddon.

0:30:24 > 0:30:25Quite a good type.

0:30:25 > 0:30:27He's got four already.

0:30:28 > 0:30:31Gentlemen, and others of Pimpernel Squadron,

0:30:31 > 0:30:33meet our latest recruit,

0:30:33 > 0:30:35Pilot Officer TB "Septic" Baird,

0:30:35 > 0:30:36the celebrated leap-frog man.

0:30:36 > 0:30:38- Wotcher, Septic. - Welcome, stranger.

0:30:38 > 0:30:39Welcome to Coney Hatch.

0:30:39 > 0:30:40Make way for the stunt man, chaps.

0:30:40 > 0:30:44And may all his bogies be bandits!

0:30:44 > 0:30:48Come into our parlour and inspect the gallery.

0:30:48 > 0:30:51On my left is squadron homework.

0:30:57 > 0:31:00And this bedraggled streak is Pilot Officer Mortimer,

0:31:00 > 0:31:01our faithful tail-end Charlie.

0:31:01 > 0:31:02Tail that wags the dog.

0:31:03 > 0:31:05This is Wally.

0:31:05 > 0:31:07This is Nobby.

0:31:07 > 0:31:10Meet Septic, the celebrated Highland flyer.

0:31:10 > 0:31:14- Hiya.- And this - this is Jacko.

0:31:21 > 0:31:23Would this be a bomb sight of a Junkers 87?

0:31:23 > 0:31:25Bang on! Good for you, Septic.

0:31:25 > 0:31:27Actually, it's our earliest trophy.

0:31:27 > 0:31:29And this is the rudder off a Ju 87.

0:31:29 > 0:31:32And that's a bit of wing off a Ju 88.

0:31:32 > 0:31:33Quite a Junkers shop, in fact.

0:31:33 > 0:31:36Tactful pilots usually laugh

0:31:36 > 0:31:38at this point in my conducted tour.

0:31:38 > 0:31:40And this bit...

0:31:40 > 0:31:43This is the driving stick off an Me 110.

0:31:43 > 0:31:44See? Look here.

0:31:44 > 0:31:47"August naturen gesellschaft."

0:31:47 > 0:31:48German.

0:31:49 > 0:31:50109.

0:31:50 > 0:31:52Spinner.

0:31:52 > 0:31:55And here, yes, now... now, here we have

0:31:55 > 0:31:57an exhibit of especial interest to the young pilot.

0:31:57 > 0:32:00The most highly derogatory order of the irremovable digit.

0:32:03 > 0:32:04What's it for?

0:32:04 > 0:32:06Slinging around the neck of types who land with their undercarts up.

0:32:06 > 0:32:09Taxi into other aircraft, overshoot on landing

0:32:09 > 0:32:11or otherwise blacken the fair record of the squadron.

0:32:11 > 0:32:14CHUCKLING

0:32:14 > 0:32:18No doubt you all think it's I who should be wearing it now.

0:32:19 > 0:32:21PHONE RINGS

0:32:23 > 0:32:25Squadron scramble, chaps!

0:32:25 > 0:32:27Hastings, Angels one-five!

0:32:36 > 0:32:39Sorry to drag you over from Gravesend, Richard, at this hour of the night

0:32:39 > 0:32:40but it's the only time I can be sure of getting

0:32:40 > 0:32:42all my squadron commanders on the ground together.

0:32:42 > 0:32:44Oh, well, that's quite all right, sir.

0:32:46 > 0:32:48Well, gentlemen, I was over at Group this afternoon

0:32:48 > 0:32:50and I thought perhaps you might like to know

0:32:50 > 0:32:52what the AOC had to say about the way things are going

0:32:52 > 0:32:54and are likely to go.

0:32:54 > 0:32:56Oh, thank you, sir.

0:32:56 > 0:32:59Yes, well, you keep your thanks until after you've heard what he's said, Richard.

0:32:59 > 0:33:02Very briefly, intelligence believes

0:33:02 > 0:33:04that the Jerries have just been probing so far,

0:33:04 > 0:33:06testing our defences.

0:33:06 > 0:33:08At any moment now, the real shenanigan may start.

0:33:08 > 0:33:10I've often wondered why the much-boosted Luftwaffe

0:33:10 > 0:33:12hasn't put up a better show.

0:33:12 > 0:33:13For the old reason, Bill.

0:33:13 > 0:33:15The strong always underestimate the weak.

0:33:15 > 0:33:17But we're not as weak as all that, sir.

0:33:17 > 0:33:19Do you know how many squadrons there are in Fighter Command, John?

0:33:19 > 0:33:20About 50.

0:33:20 > 0:33:24Yes, 50 to defend the whole country.

0:33:24 > 0:33:2522 in this group.

0:33:25 > 0:33:27On the same basis, the Jerries have

0:33:27 > 0:33:29120 squadrons of bombers and 80 of fighters

0:33:29 > 0:33:32from Brest to Amsterdam alone.

0:33:32 > 0:33:33Makes you think, doesn't it?

0:33:33 > 0:33:35It makes me pray.

0:33:35 > 0:33:38Yes, well, you'll be wasting your prayers but for three things.

0:33:38 > 0:33:40We've got better aircraft, better pilots

0:33:40 > 0:33:42and perhaps most important of all

0:33:42 > 0:33:45we have radio location and ground control.

0:33:45 > 0:33:47That's where Peter and his boys in the Hole come in.

0:33:47 > 0:33:48Hear, hear.

0:33:48 > 0:33:50Any idea what the next move of the Jerry will be, sir?

0:33:50 > 0:33:52Yes, I'm coming to that.

0:33:52 > 0:33:55You can bet your shirts that he's got all our Ops Rooms and Sector Stations

0:33:55 > 0:33:57neatly ringed on his maps.

0:33:57 > 0:33:59If he can flatten our fighter defences

0:33:59 > 0:34:02then all the rest of it is a piece of cake to him,

0:34:02 > 0:34:04invasion and all.

0:34:04 > 0:34:06So you'd better get your Emergency Ops Room on the

0:34:06 > 0:34:08- top line right away, Soss. - Yes, sir.

0:34:08 > 0:34:11Meaning that we can expect some unwelcome visitors any time now?

0:34:11 > 0:34:13Exactly, Peter.

0:34:13 > 0:34:17Oh, yes. And talking of visitors, much as I regret it,

0:34:17 > 0:34:20I think we shall have to curtail our social activities here.

0:34:20 > 0:34:22I don't like risking wives, sweethearts

0:34:22 > 0:34:26and also-rans on the aerodrome under the circumstances.

0:34:26 > 0:34:28So I'm afraid next Sunday's cocktail party

0:34:28 > 0:34:30will have to be the last.

0:34:30 > 0:34:34So...let's make it a memorable praznik, huh?

0:34:45 > 0:34:47- Have some sherry. - Thank you.

0:34:47 > 0:34:49I don't think you've met Groucho Carfax's sister Betty, sir.

0:34:49 > 0:34:51- How do you do? - How do you do?

0:34:51 > 0:34:53I'm sorry your brother can't be here, Miss Carfax.

0:34:53 > 0:34:55He's one of the unlucky ones. His squadron is in readiness.

0:34:55 > 0:34:57Beeswax Red were taking off just as we came in, sir.

0:34:57 > 0:34:59Were they? It's too bad the way Operations

0:34:59 > 0:35:01interfere with our modest pleasures.

0:35:01 > 0:35:03- Perhaps he'll be back in time to join us.- I hope so.

0:35:03 > 0:35:06In the meantime, I'm sure that Pilot Officer Raynes will look after you.

0:35:06 > 0:35:08Don't let him bore you with a lot of shop.

0:35:08 > 0:35:10- No! - Not likely, sir!

0:35:11 > 0:35:13Bill, where's Baird?

0:35:13 > 0:35:14He ought to be here helping us to entertain our guests.

0:35:14 > 0:35:16I don't know, sir. Batchy, do you know?

0:35:16 > 0:35:19Yes, he was squatting in the ante-room as I came past, sir.

0:35:19 > 0:35:21Got his head stuck in one of the Sunday heavies.

0:35:21 > 0:35:22Then go and dig him out.

0:35:22 > 0:35:24And tell him from me, his presence would be acceptable.

0:35:24 > 0:35:26Shall be done, sir.

0:35:26 > 0:35:27May I introduce my mother and father, sir?

0:35:27 > 0:35:29- How do you do? - How do you do?

0:35:29 > 0:35:30How do you do, sir?

0:35:30 > 0:35:32It's very good of you to let us come here.

0:35:32 > 0:35:34Oh, don't thank me. We enjoy entertaining, don't we, Falk?

0:35:34 > 0:35:36I'm only sorry that we have to restrict it

0:35:36 > 0:35:38to relatives and close friends owing to security reasons,

0:35:38 > 0:35:40and even that's got to stop now, I'm afraid.

0:35:40 > 0:35:42We've heard so much about you from Dennis, Captain.

0:35:42 > 0:35:44Not much to my credit, I fear.

0:35:44 > 0:35:45Yes, indeed. He says...

0:35:45 > 0:35:47I mean, that is, he...

0:35:47 > 0:35:49Have you got a family, sir?

0:35:49 > 0:35:51About 2,000, at a guess,

0:35:51 > 0:35:54including the two satellites.

0:35:54 > 0:35:57What a nice way of putting it.

0:35:58 > 0:36:01Come out from behind that barrage, Septic.

0:36:01 > 0:36:04Why, your presence is demanded in the lady's room.

0:36:04 > 0:36:05You don't expect me to fall for that gag, do you?

0:36:05 > 0:36:08What gag, old man? I'm not trying to be funny.

0:36:09 > 0:36:12Well, perhaps you'll be good enough to tell me who is demanding my presence.

0:36:12 > 0:36:14Well, actually, old man, it's no lesser a person than the...

0:36:14 > 0:36:15than Nadine Clinton.

0:36:15 > 0:36:17Well, that's different then.

0:36:17 > 0:36:19Why didn't you say it was she?

0:36:19 > 0:36:22Mind you, I don't know if I approve of all this social stuff in war time.

0:36:22 > 0:36:24I'd talk to the Tiger about it, if I were you.

0:36:24 > 0:36:26You know I'll do no such thing.

0:36:26 > 0:36:29A man's entitled to his own opinions all the same.

0:36:29 > 0:36:31- Isn't he?- Absolutely, old man.

0:36:43 > 0:36:45Seems to be quite a flap on.

0:36:45 > 0:36:47There's three sections of Beeswax up already.

0:36:47 > 0:36:49I bet Barry's got his coat off in the Ops Room.

0:36:49 > 0:36:52And thinking rude thoughts about our sherry drinking.

0:36:52 > 0:36:55Now stop talking shop, you controller types.

0:36:55 > 0:36:57I want a word in Mrs Clinton's charming ear.

0:37:04 > 0:37:08Look, I...

0:37:08 > 0:37:10This is very sudden, Group Captain.

0:37:10 > 0:37:11Now, look, I'm serious, my dear.

0:37:11 > 0:37:13It gets more and more flattering.

0:37:13 > 0:37:14Don't make things more difficult.

0:37:14 > 0:37:16I'm scared enough already.

0:37:16 > 0:37:18You? Scared?

0:37:18 > 0:37:21I can't even frighten my own tame Squadron Leader.

0:37:21 > 0:37:26Look, I want you to leave your bungalow.

0:37:27 > 0:37:28What?

0:37:28 > 0:37:30You see, we believe that at any moment

0:37:30 > 0:37:32the Jerries are going to start bombing the fighter stations.

0:37:32 > 0:37:33Well, now, when that happens

0:37:33 > 0:37:36they'll throw in everything they've got to try and wipe us out.

0:37:36 > 0:37:40I don't know want the responsibility of...having civilian women around.

0:37:40 > 0:37:44Well, I've been called a great many things in my time, but civilian woman.

0:37:44 > 0:37:46You must excuse my crude service jargon

0:37:46 > 0:37:48but you do understand?

0:37:48 > 0:37:51Perfectly. And you needn't have apologised.

0:37:51 > 0:37:54And you needn't have got so worked up about it all.

0:37:54 > 0:37:56Thank you, my dear. I knew.

0:37:56 > 0:37:59Cos I'm not going.

0:37:59 > 0:38:00I've rounded up our shy pilot, sir.

0:38:00 > 0:38:04He came like a bomb when I told him Mrs Clinton was pining for him.

0:38:05 > 0:38:07Oh. Oh, yes.

0:38:07 > 0:38:08You see, Septic,

0:38:08 > 0:38:10I didn't want you to miss our last Sunday party

0:38:10 > 0:38:12with so many beautiful girls around.

0:38:12 > 0:38:14You're wasting your talents in solitude.

0:38:14 > 0:38:15I'll introduce you to some. Come on.

0:38:19 > 0:38:20Astonishing woman.

0:38:20 > 0:38:22Absolutely, sir.

0:38:22 > 0:38:25Betty, I want to introduce you to Pilot Officer Baird,

0:38:25 > 0:38:27a newcomer to our ranks. Miss Carfax.

0:38:27 > 0:38:28Hello.

0:38:28 > 0:38:29How do you do, Miss Carfax?

0:38:29 > 0:38:32Being a VR, Pilot Officer Baird probably has a wider range of conversation

0:38:32 > 0:38:34than us regular types.

0:38:34 > 0:38:36Will someone get me a drink?

0:38:37 > 0:38:40Tony, there's someone I want you to meet.

0:38:42 > 0:38:44I suppose you're a Pimpernel or you wouldn't be here.

0:38:44 > 0:38:45Yes, that's right.

0:38:45 > 0:38:47My brother's in Beeswax Squadron.

0:38:47 > 0:38:48They're pretty busy this morning.

0:38:48 > 0:38:50Yes, he's up now.

0:38:50 > 0:38:53- I expect you wish you were, too. - Indeed, I do.

0:38:53 > 0:38:55That is...I didn't mean that...

0:38:55 > 0:38:57You mean, you'd rather be flying

0:38:57 > 0:38:59than making dull conversation with a strange girl?

0:38:59 > 0:39:01I didn't mean that at all, Miss Carfax.

0:39:01 > 0:39:04Yes, you did. And I quite agree with you.

0:39:04 > 0:39:07- It must be wonderful. - There's nothing like it.

0:39:07 > 0:39:09Power and speed and the whole sky to yourself.

0:39:09 > 0:39:10But you've got a squadron, Bill.

0:39:10 > 0:39:12Yes, granted, I've got a squadron, Peter.

0:39:12 > 0:39:13Thank you. In the long run

0:39:13 > 0:39:15you pukka Cranwell-trained laddies,

0:39:15 > 0:39:17you've got it all over us short-term commission chaps

0:39:17 > 0:39:19when it comes to the plum jobs.

0:39:19 > 0:39:22Sitting on my backside is not my idea of a plum.

0:39:23 > 0:39:26LOUDSPEAKER: Attention, everybody. Attention, everybody.

0:39:26 > 0:39:27Pimpernels to readiness.

0:39:27 > 0:39:29- Hell! - Pimpernels to readiness.

0:39:29 > 0:39:30- Batchy! - That is all.

0:39:30 > 0:39:34What a ghastly way to drink good sherry.

0:39:34 > 0:39:37I shall savour mine later with proper respect.

0:39:37 > 0:39:39And heaven help you, Peter, if it's not there when I get back.

0:39:41 > 0:39:43What about you? You're a Pimpernel, aren't you?

0:39:43 > 0:39:45Yes, but you see, my neck.

0:39:45 > 0:39:46I'm not flying at present.

0:39:46 > 0:39:49Oh, come on, we can see them off, anyway.

0:39:56 > 0:39:57Come on!

0:39:57 > 0:39:58Come on, come on!

0:40:08 > 0:40:10How I wish I was a man at this moment.

0:40:10 > 0:40:13Some people have all the luck.

0:40:13 > 0:40:16Let's go back and finish our drinks. The party's not over yet.

0:40:16 > 0:40:17Yes, let's.

0:40:23 > 0:40:25You've never flown on operations yet, have you?

0:40:25 > 0:40:26- Who told you that? - You did.

0:40:26 > 0:40:27I did?

0:40:27 > 0:40:29It's true, isn't it?

0:40:30 > 0:40:32Yes.

0:40:32 > 0:40:34I was shooting a terrible line, I'm afraid.

0:40:34 > 0:40:36No, you weren't.

0:40:36 > 0:40:40I guessed as much when I saw that look in your eyes just now.

0:40:40 > 0:40:44I remember my brother when he first joined the squadron.

0:40:44 > 0:40:47You must be a very sympathetic kind of sister.

0:40:47 > 0:40:49Oh, I don't know.

0:40:49 > 0:40:52Being a useless female makes it easier to understand how you feel.

0:40:52 > 0:40:54Hardly describe you as useless, Miss Carfax.

0:40:54 > 0:40:57Well, useful enough to drive an old ambulance about, I suppose.

0:40:59 > 0:41:01Somebody swiped our drinks.

0:41:01 > 0:41:02Oh, that's easily remedied.

0:41:02 > 0:41:03You two seem to be getting along fine.

0:41:03 > 0:41:06Miss Carfax is a very understanding young woman, Mrs Clinton.

0:41:06 > 0:41:10Yes, so I can see. Now that she's cut me out

0:41:10 > 0:41:12I shall have to seek solace with my ageing husband.

0:41:12 > 0:41:15Let's see if I can tune in on him.

0:41:15 > 0:41:16Should be about here.

0:41:16 > 0:41:18RADIO: Pimpernel Leader, Sapper calling.

0:41:18 > 0:41:19Patrol "C" for Charlie,

0:41:19 > 0:41:23Angels one-8, one-8, over.

0:41:23 > 0:41:24So Pimpernel are off already.

0:41:24 > 0:41:26RADIO: Hello, Sapper, Sapper.

0:41:26 > 0:41:27Pimpernel Leader answering.

0:41:27 > 0:41:29Understand point "C" for Charlie.

0:41:29 > 0:41:31Angels one-8, out.

0:42:01 > 0:42:03Oh, hello, Peter.

0:42:05 > 0:42:08Sorry to drag you away from your Sabbath pleasures.

0:42:08 > 0:42:10That's all right, sir.

0:42:12 > 0:42:15Rotten luck, Bill Ponsford buying it like that.

0:42:15 > 0:42:17Yes.

0:42:17 > 0:42:20Difficult man to replace.

0:42:20 > 0:42:22Impossible, I should say.

0:42:22 > 0:42:25Well, that's up to you, Peter.

0:42:25 > 0:42:28You're going to take over Pimpernel.

0:42:29 > 0:42:31Me, sir?

0:42:31 > 0:42:32But I've no operational experience.

0:42:32 > 0:42:36You have lots of other experience just as valuable.

0:42:37 > 0:42:39What about the other pilots, sir?

0:42:39 > 0:42:41They respect you as a person

0:42:41 > 0:42:42and that's what matters most, Peter.

0:42:42 > 0:42:43But surely Batchy...

0:42:43 > 0:42:45You can let Batchy lead until you find your feet.

0:42:45 > 0:42:48I want to keep my team together and Group agrees with me.

0:42:51 > 0:42:53I don't know what to say.

0:42:53 > 0:42:54Then don't say it.

0:42:54 > 0:42:58I take it you're happy about handing over the Ops Room to Barry Clinton?

0:42:58 > 0:42:59Oh, yes, sir, he's absolutely first class now.

0:42:59 > 0:43:02Good. He'll need to be

0:43:02 > 0:43:06if our guess is right about the next few weeks.

0:43:59 > 0:44:02- Strewth.- Had any luck, sir?

0:44:02 > 0:44:05No, not even one. There were thousands of blighters.

0:44:05 > 0:44:06Nearly got bounced myself.

0:44:06 > 0:44:08Thank heavens you weren't, sir.

0:44:08 > 0:44:10Don't thank heaven, Wailes.

0:44:10 > 0:44:12Thank Squadron Leader Moon.

0:44:16 > 0:44:17Strewth.

0:44:17 > 0:44:19Moths.

0:44:26 > 0:44:29- Losing my grip, Skipper. - Baloney.

0:44:29 > 0:44:33Every time I think of you flying as my Red Two, I go into a stall.

0:44:33 > 0:44:36Forget it. You're teaching me a lot.

0:44:36 > 0:44:39Now, get inside and get some sleep or you'll lose your beauty.

0:44:41 > 0:44:43What you reckon they're doing up there?

0:44:43 > 0:44:44Haven't you heard?

0:44:44 > 0:44:48We're getting so perishin' short of aircraft, they're building that platform

0:44:48 > 0:44:51so's Old Man Tiger hisself can stand up there

0:44:51 > 0:44:53and punch the Jerry pilots in the nose as they fly past.

0:44:53 > 0:44:55Go on.

0:44:55 > 0:44:56Not perishin' likely.

0:44:56 > 0:44:59One of us poor ruddy erks has gotta sit up there like a broody crow

0:44:59 > 0:45:03and count the Jerry bombs as they drop on the airfield.

0:45:03 > 0:45:07Cor! Chase me 'round the hangar.

0:45:15 > 0:45:19I must say being Senior Controller hasn't improved your manners, darling.

0:45:19 > 0:45:22If you gobble your food like that, you'll get hiccups in the middle of a raid

0:45:22 > 0:45:23- and we shall lose the war. - Sorry, darling.

0:45:23 > 0:45:26Group seems to think I live on the end of that phone.

0:45:26 > 0:45:28I must get the Emergency Ops Room tested.

0:45:28 > 0:45:31- Are the boys still flying? - One section of Beeswax.

0:45:31 > 0:45:32I must turn on the light.

0:45:35 > 0:45:38Blast. Another bulb's gone.

0:45:38 > 0:45:39This war's getting expensive!

0:45:39 > 0:45:42Now don't you worry, darling. The government pays.

0:45:42 > 0:45:44Bless you.

0:46:00 > 0:46:03- Name your poison, Septic. - Pipe down, Batchy, I'm in the chair.

0:46:03 > 0:46:05Good evening, Mr Moon. Good evening, Mr Salter.

0:46:05 > 0:46:07- Good evening, sir. - Good evening, Aunt Tabitha.

0:46:07 > 0:46:08I trust we find you well.

0:46:08 > 0:46:10I can't complain, not for one of my age.

0:46:10 > 0:46:13- You'll be taking your usual, I suppose?- Yes, I will.

0:46:13 > 0:46:14- Bitter? - Yes, rather, please.

0:46:14 > 0:46:16What about this gentleman?

0:46:16 > 0:46:18This is Pilot Officer Baird, Aunt Tabitha.

0:46:18 > 0:46:20"Septic" to his intimates. What are you drinking, Septic?

0:46:20 > 0:46:22Oh, thank you, sir.

0:46:22 > 0:46:23Do you think I could have a Drambuie?

0:46:23 > 0:46:24I'm sure you could.

0:46:24 > 0:46:28Oh, dear. I've only the one bottle. The one I keep for Mr Mortimer.

0:46:30 > 0:46:33I don't think Mr Mortimer will be wanting Drambuie anymore,

0:46:33 > 0:46:35Aunt Tabitha.

0:46:38 > 0:46:40You can never be sure, though, can you, sir?

0:46:40 > 0:46:43I'll keep it on one side all the same, sir,

0:46:43 > 0:46:45just in case Mr Mortimer calls in.

0:46:51 > 0:46:54- You were lucky to get it back, Peter.- Oh, she'll be all right, sir.

0:46:54 > 0:46:55Take more than that to knock out Daisy.

0:46:55 > 0:46:57I'm not so worried about the aircraft.

0:46:57 > 0:47:00At a pinch, we can go after them in Tiger Moth armed with hand grenades.

0:47:00 > 0:47:02It's pilots we need so desperately.

0:47:02 > 0:47:04Well, the OTUs are turning out good stuff, sir.

0:47:04 > 0:47:08- The last three VRs I had are shaping well.- I'm glad to hear it

0:47:08 > 0:47:09but it's not enough, Peter, it's not enough.

0:47:09 > 0:47:11The output isn't making up for the wastage.

0:47:11 > 0:47:12You're six short, Beeswax are four

0:47:12 > 0:47:14and the Spitfire boys are almost as bad.

0:47:14 > 0:47:15Then what's the answer?

0:47:15 > 0:47:17Make better use of what we've got.

0:47:17 > 0:47:21The MO says that Baird will be fit for operations in a couple of days.

0:47:21 > 0:47:23That'll give you one more.

0:47:23 > 0:47:25Nice work.

0:47:25 > 0:47:28Now, he had an excellent report from his OTU.

0:47:28 > 0:47:30When he first joined me in the Hole, I wanted to kick him in the backside.

0:47:30 > 0:47:33Most of us did. Too much of the walking textbook about him.

0:47:33 > 0:47:36You ever owned an Aberdeen Terrier, sir?

0:47:36 > 0:47:38No, I can't say that I have. I don't like small dogs.

0:47:38 > 0:47:39I had one once.

0:47:39 > 0:47:42Obstinate, independent little hound. Always ready to answer back,

0:47:42 > 0:47:45but full of guts. Baird reminds me of him.

0:47:45 > 0:47:47They even look alike.

0:47:47 > 0:47:50I've got an odd soft spot for that awkward cuss.

0:47:52 > 0:47:55I thought the occasion demanded our last bottle of port.

0:47:55 > 0:47:57You shouldn't be wasting it on me, Barry.

0:47:57 > 0:47:58Speak for yourself, Septic.

0:47:58 > 0:48:00Hear, hear. I've been trying to prise

0:48:00 > 0:48:03that bottle of port out of Barry for the past six months.

0:48:03 > 0:48:05I raises my glass and looks toward you, Septic.

0:48:05 > 0:48:09May your deeds with Pimpernel Squadron resound through the halls of fame.

0:48:09 > 0:48:12ALL: To Septic and the Pimpernels.

0:48:15 > 0:48:16Come on, Septic, speech.

0:48:16 > 0:48:18I'm no hand at that sort of thing at all.

0:48:18 > 0:48:20No funking, Septic.

0:48:24 > 0:48:26I just think you should all have your heads tested.

0:48:26 > 0:48:29- Shame! - I mean that.

0:48:29 > 0:48:31Makes no sort of sense.

0:48:32 > 0:48:34First of all, I plough up your front garden.

0:48:34 > 0:48:38Then I make an ass of myself all over the station.

0:48:38 > 0:48:42Barry has to put up with my stupidity in his Ops Room and now...

0:48:43 > 0:48:44..now you fill me up with beer and...

0:48:44 > 0:48:47crack open your best bottle of port.

0:48:48 > 0:48:50I don't know what you're trying to do to me.

0:48:50 > 0:48:52I must say it feels pretty good.

0:48:52 > 0:48:54You're being launched, Septic.

0:48:54 > 0:48:58I'm only sorry the housekeeping money didn't run to champagne.

0:48:58 > 0:49:00- Ha ha.- Before you celebrate too much

0:49:00 > 0:49:02don't forget you haven't got rid of me yet.

0:49:02 > 0:49:04Still a couple days to go.

0:49:04 > 0:49:07- CLOCK CHIMES - Nine o'clock. Time for the news.

0:49:18 > 0:49:20Feeling happy now, Septic?

0:49:20 > 0:49:23Never knew the world could feel so good.

0:49:23 > 0:49:25Heaven occasionally to stop worrying.

0:49:25 > 0:49:29Just sit back and accept it all as it comes.

0:49:29 > 0:49:31I think sometimes a little laziness is quite a good thing.

0:49:31 > 0:49:34That sounds like very immoral advice to me.

0:49:34 > 0:49:35Does it?

0:49:35 > 0:49:36It's true, all the same.

0:49:41 > 0:49:43I'm feeling rather pleased with myself, Barry.

0:49:43 > 0:49:45I'll give you credit for most things, darling,

0:49:45 > 0:49:47but this time, mother nature does deserve a small share,

0:49:47 > 0:49:49don't you think?

0:49:49 > 0:49:50You were going to be a doctor, weren't you?

0:49:50 > 0:49:52Well, I still hope I will be.

0:49:52 > 0:49:53Yes, of course.

0:49:53 > 0:49:55What do you want to be, a GP or a surgeon?

0:49:55 > 0:49:56Neither, as a matter of fact.

0:49:56 > 0:49:59My idea was to specialise. Ear, throat and nose, probably.

0:49:59 > 0:50:01I see.

0:50:01 > 0:50:02Yes, I think you'd make a good specialist.

0:50:02 > 0:50:04Thanks.

0:50:04 > 0:50:05But what makes you say that?

0:50:05 > 0:50:08Well, to begin with, you're the painstaking type, I should think...

0:50:08 > 0:50:11who comes to very clear and precise conclusions about things.

0:50:11 > 0:50:13All good doctors need to do that.

0:50:13 > 0:50:15Yes, I know, but you wouldn't be so good as a GP.

0:50:15 > 0:50:18- Indeed. Why not? - There you go.

0:50:18 > 0:50:21Quite relentless, aren't you?

0:50:21 > 0:50:23I don't know why. I just have a feeling you'd be a bit

0:50:23 > 0:50:25too determined, if you know what I mean.

0:50:25 > 0:50:26No bedside manner?

0:50:26 > 0:50:28Yes, if you like.

0:50:28 > 0:50:31Anyway, it's much more comfortable to be a specialist.

0:50:31 > 0:50:33Who wants to be dragged out of bed at all hours of the night?

0:50:33 > 0:50:36Is that some more of your immoral advice?

0:50:36 > 0:50:38Very wicked, aren't I?

0:50:38 > 0:50:41- I don't think so. - Oh?

0:50:42 > 0:50:44- Betty?- Yes?

0:50:44 > 0:50:46Would you come out with me one evening?

0:50:46 > 0:50:49Of course I would. I'd love to.

0:50:49 > 0:50:50Alone, I mean.

0:50:50 > 0:50:54Darling old Septic, I don't go around chained to a chaperone, you know.

0:50:54 > 0:50:57We could go over to Maidstone and have dinner, just the two of us.

0:50:57 > 0:50:59Oh, I'd adore that. When?

0:50:59 > 0:51:02Well, not just for a bit, maybe.

0:51:02 > 0:51:03Oh. Why not?

0:51:03 > 0:51:05Well, you see, I'll need to settle down with the squadron first.

0:51:05 > 0:51:07- They'll expect me to... - Oh, of course.

0:51:07 > 0:51:10Stupid of me not to realise.

0:51:10 > 0:51:12You're a grand girl, Betty.

0:51:25 > 0:51:28Hostile 7-6, 100 aircraft, 16,000.

0:51:28 > 0:51:31Fighter 161, "Q" Queenie, 8740...

0:51:31 > 0:51:34Looks as though things are boiling up.

0:51:34 > 0:51:36Never a dull moment. A gay life.

0:51:36 > 0:51:38And by the look of things, a short one.

0:51:38 > 0:51:40- Serial 7-6... - Yes, here we go, boys.

0:51:40 > 0:51:44..two squadrons, patrol point "B" for Beer, at 15,000 feet.

0:51:44 > 0:51:48Get Beeswax and Nutmeg into the air, Septic.

0:51:48 > 0:51:50Beeswax dispersal? Good, stand by.

0:51:50 > 0:51:53Nutmeg dispersal? Good.

0:51:53 > 0:51:55Order for both squadrons

0:51:55 > 0:51:59Serial 76. Both squadrons patrol point "B" for Beer

0:51:59 > 0:52:02at Angels 1-5.

0:52:02 > 0:52:04Understood, Nutmeg?

0:52:04 > 0:52:06Understood, Beeswax?

0:52:06 > 0:52:09Now bring Pimpernel to readiness.

0:52:09 > 0:52:12Attention, everybody. Operations Room calling.

0:52:12 > 0:52:14Pimpernels to come to readiness.

0:52:14 > 0:52:16I repeat, Pimpernels to come to readiness.

0:52:16 > 0:52:18That is all.

0:52:18 > 0:52:20"S" Sugar, 2-6-2-0, west...

0:52:31 > 0:52:3312 Spitfires taking off.

0:52:33 > 0:52:36Initial letter, "P" for Peter.

0:52:39 > 0:52:42Ops Room, please.

0:52:42 > 0:52:46Controller? Hello, Barry. It's Small speaking.

0:52:46 > 0:52:48Anything special?

0:52:50 > 0:52:51Look, I don't want to bother you.

0:52:51 > 0:52:55- But tip me off if it looks like developing our way.- OK, sir.

0:52:55 > 0:52:58Tiger's getting restless.

0:52:58 > 0:53:00This promises to be quite a party.

0:53:00 > 0:53:03Well, we've time for a cigarette before the fun begins, anyway.

0:53:03 > 0:53:04It's all right.

0:53:04 > 0:53:08It'll take Nutmeg and Beeswax 10½ minutes to reach their objective.

0:53:08 > 0:53:12Two squadrons of Hurricanes against 200 Jerries.

0:53:12 > 0:53:14Doesn't make much sense, does it?

0:53:14 > 0:53:161-5-0, "Q" Queenie, 9-3-1-0...

0:53:16 > 0:53:18Hello, Bob. Haven't wasted much time.

0:53:18 > 0:53:20I gather from Septic the flap was pretty fierce.

0:53:20 > 0:53:23Serial 9-3, 1320 Squadron.

0:53:23 > 0:53:27Patrol Ashford at 18,000 feet.

0:53:28 > 0:53:30Get Pimpernel into the air, Septic.

0:53:32 > 0:53:35Pimpernel dispersal? Squadron scramble.

0:53:35 > 0:53:36Ashford Angels 1-8.

0:53:36 > 0:53:37You heard the form.

0:53:37 > 0:53:39Group will place Raid 1-2-4 on our plate.

0:53:39 > 0:53:42I'll look after them with Nutmeg and Beeswax if you take on Pimpernel.

0:53:42 > 0:53:45OK. That means we've got all our squadrons airborne at once.

0:53:45 > 0:53:47I know, old man. Presumably, Group know what they're doing.

0:53:47 > 0:53:49Put Raid 1-2-4 on the screen, will you?

0:53:49 > 0:53:51Hello, Beeswax and Nutmeg Leaders.

0:53:51 > 0:53:53Beeswax and Nutmeg Leaders, Sapper calling.

0:53:53 > 0:53:58Vector 1-5-0, 1-5-0.

0:53:58 > 0:54:01100 bandits are approaching you from the east.

0:54:01 > 0:54:04From the east. Angels 1-8.

0:54:04 > 0:54:07Up to Angels 1-8, over.

0:54:20 > 0:54:22'12 Hurricanes taking off.

0:54:22 > 0:54:23'Initial letter, "U" for Uncle.'

0:54:23 > 0:54:26- Three minutes dead. - Pimpernels, airborne.

0:54:26 > 0:54:29It's pretty hot, even for Pimpernel.

0:54:44 > 0:54:46Practice flight want to do an air test, sir.

0:54:46 > 0:54:49Definitely no. In fact, we'll have the red light on. We got to concentrate.

0:54:49 > 0:54:52Sorry, old boy, no joy. Try again in a week's time.

0:54:54 > 0:54:56Good Lord, your turn already?

0:54:56 > 0:54:58You better skip while the going's good.

0:54:58 > 0:54:59Serial 9-6. 1320 Squadron.

0:54:59 > 0:55:01Intercept Raid 1-2-7.

0:55:01 > 0:55:04Think I'll hang around. This looks like the biggest show yet.

0:55:04 > 0:55:07Stick Raid one-two-seven on the screen, please.

0:55:07 > 0:55:08'Hello, Sapper, Sapper.

0:55:08 > 0:55:11'Beeswax Leader calling. Tally-ho, tally-ho, out.'

0:55:11 > 0:55:13Well, that's Beeswax and Nutmeg engaged, anyway.

0:55:13 > 0:55:16Hello, Pimpernel Leader. Pimpernel Leader.

0:55:16 > 0:55:17Vector 2-1-0.

0:55:17 > 0:55:19100 bandits to the south, over.

0:55:19 > 0:55:22Hello, Sapper, Sapper.

0:55:22 > 0:55:24Pimpernel Leader answering. Understood, out.

0:55:43 > 0:55:45'Hello, Sapper, Sapper.

0:55:45 > 0:55:48'Pimpernel Leader calling. Tally-ho, tally-ho, over.'

0:55:48 > 0:55:50Hello, Pimpernel Leader. Sapper answering.

0:55:50 > 0:55:52Watch out for hawks. Out.

0:55:52 > 0:55:54Well done, Pimpernel.

0:55:54 > 0:55:57Carve 'em up, carve 'em up.

0:55:57 > 0:56:00That's all three squadrons engaged.

0:56:00 > 0:56:01Where do we go from here?

0:56:01 > 0:56:03Take a look at Raid 1-3-2.

0:56:05 > 0:56:08They hold that course much longer, they'll be dropping in here for a drink.

0:56:08 > 0:56:11Looks rather sinister to me.

0:56:12 > 0:56:14See what Group thinks.

0:56:14 > 0:56:16Hello, Neethley. Yes, I'm watching it.

0:56:16 > 0:56:19Hornchurch is trying to intercept Raid 1-3-2 now

0:56:19 > 0:56:20but I'm not too hopeful.

0:56:20 > 0:56:23I'm trying to send reinforcements to you.

0:56:23 > 0:56:25Meantime, do whatever you can.

0:56:25 > 0:56:27Good luck. Nice to have known you.

0:56:27 > 0:56:29Thank you very much, sir.

0:56:31 > 0:56:32Seems we're on our own now.

0:56:34 > 0:56:35Get the Tiger on the blower, Bonzo.

0:56:35 > 0:56:38Gun, now's your chance to show what you can do.

0:56:38 > 0:56:40You better take the Spiders out of your battles.

0:56:40 > 0:56:41Station Commander, please.

0:56:41 > 0:56:44'Hello, Sapper, Sapper. Nutmeg Blue Two calling.

0:56:44 > 0:56:46'Can I come back and rearm? Over.'

0:56:46 > 0:56:50Hello, Nutmeg Blue Two, Sapper answering. No, you may not come home yet, out.

0:56:50 > 0:56:52Tiger on the phone, sir.

0:56:54 > 0:56:56I see.

0:56:56 > 0:56:58That's what I expected.

0:56:58 > 0:57:01Yes, certainly. Anything that flies, and you better be quick.

0:57:06 > 0:57:08Attention, everybody. Attention, everybody.

0:57:08 > 0:57:10Operations calling.

0:57:10 > 0:57:13Every available pilot, report to practice flight immediately.

0:57:13 > 0:57:15Take off independently and patrol base

0:57:15 > 0:57:18at Angels 1-2, 1-2.

0:57:18 > 0:57:20Officer in charge of Practice Flight

0:57:20 > 0:57:22to put every possible aircraft into the air.

0:57:22 > 0:57:24This message to be treated as urgent.

0:57:24 > 0:57:26That is all.

0:57:26 > 0:57:29It's pretty futile, they'll never make height in time, but it's all we can do.

0:57:29 > 0:57:31At least they won't find much on the ground to bomb.

0:57:36 > 0:57:38Attention, everybody, attention, everybody.

0:57:38 > 0:57:42Operations calling. Action stations, action stations.

0:57:54 > 0:57:58Hello there, partner. Come up where I can see you, will you?

0:58:44 > 0:58:48Five assorted aircraft all taking off, all shapes and sizes.

0:58:50 > 0:58:55Hostile 1-3-2, "Q" Queenie, 9-0-8-0.

0:59:02 > 0:59:05Battle bowlers, everybody.

0:59:05 > 0:59:07Close the blast-proof doors.

0:59:07 > 0:59:11Attention, everybody. Attention, everybody. Operations calling.

0:59:11 > 0:59:15All personnel not engaged on operational duties, take cover.

0:59:15 > 0:59:17Take cover.

0:59:26 > 0:59:28'Hello, Sapper, Sapper. Pimpernel Leader calling.

0:59:28 > 0:59:29'Shall not be home yet.

0:59:29 > 0:59:33'Have dealt with bandits, but am engaging hawks. Over.'

0:59:33 > 0:59:35Hello, Pimpernel Leader. Sapper answering.

0:59:35 > 0:59:37Message understood. Out.

0:59:37 > 0:59:40Just our luck to be caught with both pairs of trousers at the cleaners.

0:59:40 > 0:59:44Guns, see that your boys don't poop off at any of our lads coming home.

0:59:44 > 0:59:45All right. Leave it to us.

0:59:45 > 0:59:48'Hello, Sapper. Hello, Sapper. Septic calling. Septic calling.

0:59:48 > 0:59:51'I am airborne. Have you any instructions for me?

0:59:51 > 0:59:54'Over to Sapper. Over.'

0:59:54 > 0:59:56Hello, Septic! Hello, Septic! Sapper answering.

0:59:56 > 0:59:59Make angels as fast as you can, over.

1:00:00 > 1:00:02Hello, Sapper. Hello, Sapper. Septic answering.

1:00:02 > 1:00:04Receiving you loud and clear.

1:00:04 > 1:00:06Strength 9. Listening out.

1:00:37 > 1:00:39'Hello, Sapper. Hello, Sapper. Septic calling.

1:00:39 > 1:00:42'Tally ho, tally ho. Bandits ahead and above me.

1:00:42 > 1:00:44'Here I come!'

1:00:58 > 1:01:0225 enemy bombers approaching from the southeast.

1:01:02 > 1:01:04Height about 10,000 feet.

1:01:04 > 1:01:07They look like JU-88s to me.

1:01:07 > 1:01:09This is where we learn to take it.

1:01:10 > 1:01:13Order the squadrons not to land back at base.

1:01:26 > 1:01:28Here, give it to me.

1:01:28 > 1:01:31Oh, some blithering idiot's left his transmitter on.

1:02:07 > 1:02:10Enemy aircraft are now bombing the aerodrome.

1:02:10 > 1:02:11You're telling us!

1:02:11 > 1:02:13LAUGHTER

1:02:34 > 1:02:36Attaboy!

1:02:36 > 1:02:37Let 'em have it, chum!

1:02:39 > 1:02:41Enemy aircraft being attacked by fighters!

1:02:41 > 1:02:45BOMBS WHISTLE OVERHEAD

1:02:45 > 1:02:47EXPLOSION

1:03:55 > 1:03:58Here, leave me alone. I've got a job of work to do!

1:03:58 > 1:04:01Don't be a perishing fool! Who do you think you are, Joan of Arc?

1:04:01 > 1:04:02LAUGHTER

1:04:02 > 1:04:04Perishing hangar's on fire!

1:04:05 > 1:04:07Test all the lines, Bonzo.

1:04:10 > 1:04:12- Sergeant?- Yes, sir?

1:04:12 > 1:04:13What casualties?

1:04:13 > 1:04:15No-one killed, sir.

1:04:15 > 1:04:17One of the R/T operators copped a nasty one

1:04:17 > 1:04:19and one of the girls doesn't seem too good.

1:04:19 > 1:04:21We're doing the best we can for them.

1:04:21 > 1:04:22They'll have a rescue squad here soon.

1:04:22 > 1:04:24Yes, sir.

1:04:24 > 1:04:26I'm sure there was one that didn't go off.

1:04:26 > 1:04:29Well, let's hope it's a dud.

1:04:29 > 1:04:31All the lines are dead.

1:04:31 > 1:04:33Right. That settles it. I'm going to evacuate.

1:04:33 > 1:04:35- Sergeant, muster the crew and get them out of here.- Yes, sir.

1:04:35 > 1:04:38The emergency option should be functioning by now.

1:04:40 > 1:04:41Can't be done, sir.

1:04:41 > 1:04:43The doors are all jammed or blocked with rubble.

1:04:43 > 1:04:47Hell. We'll just have to stay here and wait for the bomb to go off.

1:04:48 > 1:04:51I hope to God Nadine got into the dug-out.

1:04:53 > 1:04:55Tea, sir?

1:04:55 > 1:04:57It's a bit gritty, I'm afraid, sir.

1:05:02 > 1:05:05Foster, that's an inspiration.

1:05:05 > 1:05:07Remind me to have you promoted.

1:05:07 > 1:05:08Yes, sir.

1:05:21 > 1:05:25Did you ever see anything like it?

1:05:25 > 1:05:27Oh, never mind, duck.

1:05:27 > 1:05:29Wasn't really so much of a little house, was it?

1:06:03 > 1:06:05The whole place is certainly pockmarked.

1:06:05 > 1:06:07Yes! Trust old Jerry to sneak in and plaster everything

1:06:07 > 1:06:09while our backs are turned.

1:06:09 > 1:06:12Speaking for myself, I'm glad I wasn't here.

1:06:12 > 1:06:14They didn't have it all their own way, you know.

1:06:14 > 1:06:16We managed to put up an odds and sods section.

1:06:16 > 1:06:18- Good show! Any joy? - One Messerschmitt 110 for certain,

1:06:18 > 1:06:21fell just outside the perimeter, and a couple of probables.

1:06:21 > 1:06:23What about you chaps? That's what I'm here to find out.

1:06:23 > 1:06:26Well, there were about 50 Dorniers. We came in above and behind them.

1:06:26 > 1:06:30- Seven went down.- All confirmed? - Absolutely, old boy.

1:06:30 > 1:06:31I followed each one down personally.

1:06:31 > 1:06:34Have a heart. I've got to fill in a claim!

1:06:34 > 1:06:35You make it seven, old boy.

1:06:35 > 1:06:38And after that, a swarm of Me 109s came out of the sun at us

1:06:38 > 1:06:41- and things got a bit hectic. - Any casualties?- Yes.

1:06:41 > 1:06:42Three unaccounted for so far.

1:06:42 > 1:06:44Matthews might have got down at Hawkinge.

1:06:44 > 1:06:47- What happened here? - We were pretty lucky on the whole.

1:06:47 > 1:06:49One shelter hit, unfortunately, and the Ops Room bought it.

1:06:49 > 1:06:51- Barry Clinton? - They all got out alive all right.

1:06:51 > 1:06:55- Where's this Me 110? - In a field behind the Royal Lion. - Come on, chaps. Into the truck!

1:06:55 > 1:06:59Hey! Damn it! I've got to get a report!

1:07:25 > 1:07:26Hello, Baird.

1:07:26 > 1:07:28Hello.

1:07:28 > 1:07:29Ever seen one of these before?

1:07:29 > 1:07:31Oh, quite a few.

1:07:31 > 1:07:33It was me who shot down this bird.

1:07:33 > 1:07:35You, was it?

1:07:35 > 1:07:37I didn't know you were flying ops.

1:07:37 > 1:07:40- Well, I got caught up in a scramble. - I see. Nice work anyway.

1:07:42 > 1:07:45Do you think I might have a wee bit, just for a souvenir?

1:07:45 > 1:07:48You'll get me shot! It's against regulations.

1:07:48 > 1:07:50Well, just something for the squadron's gallery.

1:07:50 > 1:07:52Oh, well, as it's your first.

1:07:52 > 1:07:54I'll look the other way.

1:07:57 > 1:07:59How about a nice little altimeter?

1:08:01 > 1:08:02THEY CHEER

1:08:02 > 1:08:05What a prang!

1:08:06 > 1:08:09Wotcher, Septic. Pinching enemy property?

1:08:09 > 1:08:11I'm surprised at you, Plumber, encouraging the lad.

1:08:11 > 1:08:14- Well, why not? He shot it down. - What! You never!

1:08:14 > 1:08:16What a horrible lie!

1:08:16 > 1:08:18I went up from the practice flight.

1:08:18 > 1:08:20- I was lucky, that's all. - Well, I'll be transmogrified.

1:08:20 > 1:08:23Our own Septic's got himself a Jerry. Hurray!

1:08:23 > 1:08:25We must do something about this, chaps.

1:08:25 > 1:08:27Here we are! Chair the victor! Come on, types!

1:08:27 > 1:08:28Come on, you types.

1:08:29 > 1:08:31Hey! Put that tail fin down!

1:08:33 > 1:08:37ALL: # Oh, a brave aviator lay dying

1:08:37 > 1:08:41# And as on his deathbed he lay

1:08:41 > 1:08:44# Now, this is the end of my flying

1:08:44 > 1:08:48# And this now is all I could say

1:08:48 > 1:08:52# Take the connecting rod out of my backbone

1:08:52 > 1:08:55# Take the crankshaft from out of my brain

1:08:55 > 1:08:59# Take the sparking plugs out of my kidneys

1:08:59 > 1:09:03# And assemble the engine again...

1:09:03 > 1:09:06# ..So raise up your glasses steady

1:09:06 > 1:09:10# Here's a toast to the men of the sky

1:09:10 > 1:09:14# Three cheers for the dead already

1:09:14 > 1:09:17# Hoorah for the next man to die

1:09:17 > 1:09:21# Oh, Septic's got a Jerry in Mobile, in Mobile

1:09:21 > 1:09:25# Oh, Septic's got a Jerry in Mobile, in Mobile

1:09:25 > 1:09:27# Oh, Septic's got a Jerry

1:09:27 > 1:09:28# And the Pimpernels are merry

1:09:28 > 1:09:32# For Septic's got a Jerry in Mobile! #

1:09:35 > 1:09:37Choose your site, Septic.

1:09:37 > 1:09:39Come on. He must have the place of honour.

1:09:39 > 1:09:41- Let's shift the derogatory finger. - Give us a hand, one of you louts.

1:09:41 > 1:09:44Baird.

1:09:44 > 1:09:45Come in here a moment, will you?

1:09:52 > 1:09:53Shut the door.

1:09:56 > 1:09:58Just been over inspecting my kill, sir.

1:09:58 > 1:10:00I didn't call you in here to congratulate you, Baird.

1:10:00 > 1:10:03- I know that, sir.- You're still a member of this squadron,

1:10:03 > 1:10:05- even if you're non-effective. - Of course, sir.

1:10:05 > 1:10:09- That's why I was hanging my piece of 110 on the wall, sir. - Stop nattering about that 110!

1:10:14 > 1:10:16It's been done before, you know.

1:10:16 > 1:10:20You come bursting in here, grinning all over your face.

1:10:20 > 1:10:23- Did you report to intelligence? - I'm sorry, sir. In the excitement, I must have forgotten.

1:10:23 > 1:10:26This is an operational squadron, not a flying circus.

1:10:26 > 1:10:28We've no time for personal jamborees.

1:10:28 > 1:10:31- We've got a job to do. - I realise that, sir.

1:10:35 > 1:10:38Perhaps you also realise that you left your radio on transmit

1:10:38 > 1:10:41the whole time you were in the air.

1:10:41 > 1:10:43- I did, sir?- Yes, you.

1:10:43 > 1:10:46The textbook pilot who knows all the answers.

1:10:46 > 1:10:49You jammed the channel so that Operations couldn't speak

1:10:49 > 1:10:51to any pilot on your frequency.

1:10:54 > 1:10:57Pilots returning from a gruelling action,

1:10:57 > 1:11:00shot up, short of juice,

1:11:00 > 1:11:03not even knowing that their base had been bombed.

1:11:05 > 1:11:06H-How did you know it was me, sir?

1:11:06 > 1:11:10Because your aircraft was the only one in practice flight with a serviceable radio.

1:11:11 > 1:11:14Thank God those that got back landed safely.

1:11:14 > 1:11:18Otherwise, I'd run you off the station with my own hands.

1:11:19 > 1:11:21Let's face it, Baird.

1:11:21 > 1:11:23You may know the training manuals backwards by heart.

1:11:23 > 1:11:26But until you've had operational experience

1:11:26 > 1:11:28you aren't worth your rations to this squadron.

1:11:28 > 1:11:30- It shan't happen again, sir. - Once is too often.

1:11:30 > 1:11:34I will not have this squadron made a laughing stock.

1:11:35 > 1:11:37For that reason, as far as I'm concerned,

1:11:37 > 1:11:40your black won't be published outside these walls.

1:11:40 > 1:11:42That is all.

1:11:44 > 1:11:47Well, go on. Go and hang your trophy on the wall.

1:12:01 > 1:12:03What ails you, Septic?

1:12:03 > 1:12:05- You look a trifle parboiled. - Nothing.

1:12:05 > 1:12:07I'd rather not discuss it, if you don't mind.

1:12:07 > 1:12:09OK, old man, if that's the way you feel.

1:12:09 > 1:12:10Where's your trophy, Septic?

1:12:10 > 1:12:14- Come on, old boy, you must stick it up. It's squadron property.- We can't have private looting, Septic.

1:12:14 > 1:12:17Listen, chaps. I made a mistake.

1:12:17 > 1:12:21I haven't had much experience yet, you see and...well, I've been a mutt.

1:12:21 > 1:12:22Shame!

1:12:22 > 1:12:24That 110... I'm not so sure now.

1:12:24 > 1:12:26Perhaps it wasn't mine after all.

1:12:26 > 1:12:27- What's that? - Come off it, Septic.

1:12:27 > 1:12:29- What's the big idea? - This modesty's most unbecoming.

1:12:29 > 1:12:31TANNOY: 'Attention, please.

1:12:31 > 1:12:35'Will Pilot Officer Baird report to the Station Commander immediately. 'That is all.'

1:12:35 > 1:12:36What you been up to, Septic?

1:12:36 > 1:12:39You better put some blotting paper in your trousers, old man.

1:12:41 > 1:12:44I shall decide whether you're going to be any use to us

1:12:44 > 1:12:47after I've had a talk with your squadron commander.

1:12:47 > 1:12:50Meanwhile, I hope you've learned a lesson, Baird.

1:12:50 > 1:12:54Discipline and procedure are just as important as courage and skill.

1:12:54 > 1:12:58Every man and woman on this station has a part to play

1:12:58 > 1:13:01and a strict set of rules to play it by.

1:13:01 > 1:13:04I've warned you before that we don't take kindly to people who break the team's rules.

1:13:04 > 1:13:07The others are only trying to help you do your job,

1:13:07 > 1:13:10and it's up to you to help them do THEIRS.

1:13:10 > 1:13:12Yes, sir.

1:13:12 > 1:13:15All right. You can go.

1:13:19 > 1:13:22Baird, come here.

1:13:29 > 1:13:31Have a cigarette.

1:13:32 > 1:13:35Well, go on.

1:13:35 > 1:13:37Thank you, sir.

1:13:37 > 1:13:39Sit down.

1:13:42 > 1:13:45I called you back because...

1:13:45 > 1:13:48well, because you weren't the only one who let his personal feelings

1:13:48 > 1:13:50get the better of his service training today.

1:13:50 > 1:13:52I was just as guilty myself.

1:13:52 > 1:13:54You, sir?

1:13:54 > 1:13:57Yes. In the middle of the bombing, I lost my temper and grabbed hold of a Lewis gun

1:13:57 > 1:14:00and started pooping off at the Jerry planes.

1:14:00 > 1:14:03Oh, a very natural thing to do, sir.

1:14:03 > 1:14:06Natural, perhaps, Baird, but wrong all the same.

1:14:06 > 1:14:09I'm a Station Commander, not an ack-ack gunner.

1:14:09 > 1:14:12But then, you see, there's nobody here to tear me off a strip.

1:14:12 > 1:14:13That's not fair, is it?

1:14:13 > 1:14:18- But you're the Station Commander, sir.- Exactly. That's what makes it all the more inexcusable.

1:14:20 > 1:14:23Yes, and another thing.

1:14:23 > 1:14:26- You didn't see me when you were running to the practice flight, did you?- No, sir.

1:14:26 > 1:14:30Well, I was racing for that last Hurricane, but I stopped and let you win.

1:14:30 > 1:14:32You LET me win, sir?

1:14:32 > 1:14:34Well, you don't imagine I couldn't have beaten you to it?

1:14:34 > 1:14:37- I was a pretty good sprinter at school, sir.- Oh, well, we can soon settle that argument.

1:14:37 > 1:14:41We'll have a race - 220 yards flat along the perimeter track in full flying kit.

1:14:41 > 1:14:43That will show you who'd have got to that Hurricane first.

1:14:43 > 1:14:45All right, sir. Now, sir?

1:14:45 > 1:14:48No, not now. I need a drink.

1:14:48 > 1:14:51I daresay you're feeling a bit dry, too.

1:14:51 > 1:14:52But we'll fix a date for that race.

1:14:52 > 1:14:53Don't forget to remind me.

1:14:53 > 1:14:55I won't, sir.

1:15:02 > 1:15:04Excuse me.

1:15:04 > 1:15:05Anything to oblige, old boy.

1:15:05 > 1:15:07Oh, it's you, Septic. Peter Moon was asking for you just now.

1:15:07 > 1:15:10Squadron Leader Moon? Well, where is he?

1:15:10 > 1:15:13He's over there by the bar nattering to the Tiger.

1:15:13 > 1:15:14Thanks.

1:15:20 > 1:15:23Course, it's for you to decide, sir, but that's what I strongly recommend.

1:15:26 > 1:15:27Very well, Peter.

1:15:27 > 1:15:29I didn't intend to take any action,

1:15:29 > 1:15:32but if that's the way you want it, I will.

1:15:32 > 1:15:33Oh, there you are, Baird.

1:15:33 > 1:15:35Been looking for you high and low.

1:15:35 > 1:15:37You're flying as my Yellow Two tomorrow.

1:15:37 > 1:15:39Readiness first light.

1:15:46 > 1:15:49# I don't want to join the air force

1:15:49 > 1:15:53# I don't want to go to war

1:15:53 > 1:15:56# I'd rather hang around Piccadilly underground

1:15:56 > 1:16:00# Living on the earnings of a high-born lady

1:16:00 > 1:16:03# I don't want to lose my tail plane

1:16:03 > 1:16:06# I don't want my rudder shot away

1:16:07 > 1:16:09# I'd rather stay in England

1:16:09 > 1:16:11# In merry, merry England... #

1:16:25 > 1:16:27I reckon she must have dived in there to take cover.

1:16:27 > 1:16:29What's the use, anyway?

1:16:29 > 1:16:32We heaves her out and tidies her up and back come the ruddy Jerries, have to start all over again.

1:16:32 > 1:16:35Don't worry, chum. Another couple of days of this

1:16:35 > 1:16:37and there won't be any perishing station left to tidy.

1:16:37 > 1:16:39Got a fag?

1:16:39 > 1:16:40No.

1:16:43 > 1:16:44I wrote to your wife this morning,

1:16:44 > 1:16:47so I expect she'll be coming to see you in hospital.

1:16:47 > 1:16:50All you've got to do is to get fit as quickly as you can.

1:16:50 > 1:16:53If there's anything you want, you let me know, will you?

1:16:53 > 1:16:55- Good luck. - Is that the lot now?

1:16:55 > 1:16:56Yes.

1:17:02 > 1:17:04Been seeing anything of Septic lately?

1:17:04 > 1:17:05He's giving me dinner at Maidstone tonight.

1:17:05 > 1:17:09- Oh, quite an occasion!- Isn't it? I'm very thrilled about it.

1:17:09 > 1:17:12It's certainly an achievement. So long, my dear.

1:17:12 > 1:17:13Bye.

1:17:18 > 1:17:20Good afternoon. And how's our lady of the lamp?

1:17:20 > 1:17:24If you're referring to the Clinton bungalow beacon, that's still under control.

1:17:24 > 1:17:27I was referring to your activities amongst our sick and wounded.

1:17:27 > 1:17:29You look tired.

1:17:29 > 1:17:31Aren't we all?

1:17:31 > 1:17:35It's a marvel to me how those boys go up time after time.

1:17:35 > 1:17:38No proper rest, few comforts left.

1:17:38 > 1:17:41- Well, how do YOU manage? - Me? Oh, that's quite different.

1:17:41 > 1:17:43It isn't, you know.

1:17:43 > 1:17:46We keep going because... well, we've GOT to keep going,

1:17:46 > 1:17:48isn't that it?

1:17:48 > 1:17:50Yes, I suppose so.

1:17:50 > 1:17:52I'm a bit worried about Barry.

1:17:52 > 1:17:54He's feeling the strain badly.

1:17:54 > 1:17:57Well, I was just on my way down to Emergency Ops.

1:17:57 > 1:17:59He worries so dreadfully.

1:17:59 > 1:18:02He seems to take responsibility for every single casualty.

1:18:02 > 1:18:04I'll try and talk some sense into him.

1:18:04 > 1:18:06- Thank you.- So long, my dear.

1:18:16 > 1:18:18Bored with her, Dusty?

1:18:18 > 1:18:20It's not that, old man. I want to get some sleep.

1:18:20 > 1:18:22Tell us about your love life, Septic.

1:18:22 > 1:18:23That'll put us ALL to sleep.

1:18:23 > 1:18:26He's a dark horse. Aren't you, Septic?

1:18:26 > 1:18:28I don't have to titivate my senses with paper substitutes

1:18:28 > 1:18:30- if that's what you mean. - Who is she, Septic?

1:18:30 > 1:18:32Is she a braw Scots lassie?

1:18:32 > 1:18:33Tell us a real bedtime story, Septic.

1:18:33 > 1:18:37Come on, Septic. Don't be bashful.

1:18:37 > 1:18:39Well, since you all take such a kindly interest in my affairs,

1:18:39 > 1:18:41I may as well tell you that

1:18:41 > 1:18:44I've got a date with a very beautiful girl in Maidstone this evening.

1:18:44 > 1:18:46- Well, blow me down. - Who'd have thought it!

1:18:46 > 1:18:49Good old Septic, a very parfait gentle knight.

1:18:51 > 1:18:53Are you ready for a game of chess, sir?

1:18:53 > 1:18:56I don't mind if I do. Provided you let me win for once.

1:18:56 > 1:18:57Fan me!

1:18:57 > 1:19:00Five sorties, and then chess?

1:19:00 > 1:19:02Your mother might not have known it, Septic,

1:19:02 > 1:19:06but what she gave birth to was a wonder child.

1:19:23 > 1:19:24What's the form, Barry?

1:19:24 > 1:19:27Nothing much on the table at the moment, sir.

1:19:32 > 1:19:34I don't like it.

1:19:34 > 1:19:36Why not?

1:19:36 > 1:19:38We could all do with a bit of a rest, couldn't we?

1:19:38 > 1:19:41It's unlike Jerry to lay off, sir, just when he's got us rocking.

1:19:41 > 1:19:43Sufficient unto the day.

1:19:43 > 1:19:45You worry too much, Barry. You're losing weight.

1:19:45 > 1:19:49It's the smell of a boot, sir. Interferes with the digestion.

1:19:49 > 1:19:50Ah. Here they come.

1:19:50 > 1:19:54"H" for Hostile, 7-5, "S" for Sugar, 3-9-1-9.

1:19:54 > 1:19:5612 aircraft, no height.

1:19:56 > 1:19:59"H" for Hostile 7-6, 3-0-0-6.

1:19:59 > 1:20:01Get Pimpernel off, Bonzo.

1:20:01 > 1:20:03Six aircraft's about all they can muster, sir.

1:20:03 > 1:20:05They've done 49 sorties today already.

1:20:05 > 1:20:08Well, it's getting late. May fizzle out.

1:20:10 > 1:20:12I'll wait and see how it develops.

1:20:12 > 1:20:14Hello. Pimpernel dispersal?

1:20:14 > 1:20:16Patrol Dover Angels 1-8.

1:20:16 > 1:20:17Dover Angels 1-8.

1:20:24 > 1:20:27Don't forget, Septic, you're flying as my Black Two.

1:20:30 > 1:20:33Here we go again. Poor perishers.

1:20:33 > 1:20:36Haven't you got that ruddy blower working yet?

1:21:24 > 1:21:27Hello, Pimpernel Leader, Pimpernel Leader, Sapper calling.

1:21:27 > 1:21:29Make Angels as quickly as you can.

1:21:29 > 1:21:32Bandits approaching from the southeast. Over.

1:21:32 > 1:21:33'OK, Sapper.

1:21:33 > 1:21:36'What Angels are bandits? Over.'

1:21:36 > 1:21:40Don't know, can't see from here. Over.

1:21:40 > 1:21:43You funny little man. That'll cost you a drink. Out.

1:21:56 > 1:22:00Close up, Black Two, I'm going to climb. Keep your eyes skinned.

1:22:13 > 1:22:16"H" Hostile 7-6. "R" Robert...

1:22:16 > 1:22:19Hello, Pimpernel Leader, Pimpernel Leader. Sapper calling.

1:22:19 > 1:22:22Watch out for bandits above and behind you.

1:22:22 > 1:22:25'Above and behind, over.'

1:22:25 > 1:22:28Hello, Sapper. Pimpernel Leader answering. OK. Out.

1:22:36 > 1:22:39Hello, Leader, Black Two calling. 109s above at four o'clock, over.

1:22:41 > 1:22:43OK, Black Two. I can see them. Prepare to break.

1:22:46 > 1:22:50No, hold it. They're Spitties. Over.

1:22:50 > 1:22:53Hello, Pimpernel Leader, Pimpernel Leader. Sapper calling.

1:22:53 > 1:22:57Bandits ahead of you. Ahead of you. Will cross from starboard to port.

1:22:57 > 1:22:59'Starboard to port. Over.'

1:23:16 > 1:23:19Hello, Sapper. Pimpernel Leader answering. I see 'em.

1:23:19 > 1:23:21Tally ho! Tally ho!

1:23:21 > 1:23:23Hello, chaps. Leader calling. Prepare to break.

1:23:23 > 1:23:24Line astern. Line astern.

1:23:24 > 1:23:27Go!

1:24:19 > 1:24:20Nice work, Septic.

1:24:20 > 1:24:23Your bird, sir.

1:24:27 > 1:24:30Sounds as if Septic had winged one.

1:24:30 > 1:24:32Yes, good boy.

1:24:35 > 1:24:38"H" for Hostile 7-6, "R" Robert 7-3-6-2.

1:24:41 > 1:24:43Now, how the hell did that get there?

1:24:43 > 1:24:45Puts them up sun now, sir, to our boys.

1:24:45 > 1:24:48Hello, Pimpernel Leader, Pimpernel Leader. Sapper calling.

1:24:48 > 1:24:50Hawks in the sun. Hawks in the sun.

1:24:50 > 1:24:53Closing in on you rapidly from the southwest. Over.

1:24:54 > 1:24:57GUNFIRE

1:25:14 > 1:25:17Watch your tail, Leader. Watch your tail.

1:25:32 > 1:25:33GUNFIRE

1:26:01 > 1:26:05Hello, Septic, hello, Septic. Are you all right? Over.

1:26:10 > 1:26:13Hello, Leader. Septic answering.

1:26:13 > 1:26:15Yes, I'm all right.

1:26:35 > 1:26:38Trouble is, can't open hood.

1:26:38 > 1:26:40Chin up, Septic. You don't sound too good.

1:26:40 > 1:26:42Better park down on Manston. I'll lead you down.

1:26:42 > 1:26:46Try and keep height. Over.

1:26:49 > 1:26:52Hello, Leader. Hello, Leader.

1:26:54 > 1:26:57Septic answering.

1:26:57 > 1:27:01Your message received and understood.

1:27:14 > 1:27:17See if you can get their position. Maybe we can help them.

1:27:17 > 1:27:19Hello, Pimpernel Leader, Pimpernel Leader. Sapper calling.

1:27:19 > 1:27:21Over to button "B", button "B",

1:27:21 > 1:27:24and transmit for fix. Over.

1:27:24 > 1:27:26Hello, Sapper. Pimpernel Leader answering.

1:27:26 > 1:27:28I will transmit for fix.

1:27:28 > 1:27:29Please keep channel free

1:27:29 > 1:27:32for me to assist Black Two down on to Manston. Over.

1:27:32 > 1:27:33OK, OK. Over.

1:27:33 > 1:27:36Tell the DF Stations to concentrate on Pimpernel Leader.

1:27:36 > 1:27:38Get through to Manston. Tell them to have the crash tender

1:27:38 > 1:27:42- and the ambulance on the top line. - All stations concentrate on Pimpernel Leader, button "B".

1:27:46 > 1:27:48Has Squadron Leader Clinton left yet?

1:27:48 > 1:27:50- Not yet, ma'am. - Is the squadron still up?

1:27:50 > 1:27:51I believe so, ma'am.

1:27:51 > 1:27:54That means some of the stragglers will be landing in the dark.

1:27:54 > 1:27:55I must hurry.

1:27:55 > 1:27:57- Good night. - Good night.

1:27:57 > 1:28:00Hello, Sapper, Sapper. Pimpernel Red One calling.

1:28:00 > 1:28:03We've disengaged and are returning to base, over.

1:28:03 > 1:28:05Hello, Pimpernel Red one. Red one.

1:28:05 > 1:28:06OK, OK.

1:28:06 > 1:28:09Have you seen Leader or Black Two? Over.

1:28:09 > 1:28:11Hello, Sapper. Red One answering.

1:28:11 > 1:28:14Not for some time. Anything I can do? Over.

1:28:14 > 1:28:16Hello, Red One, Red One. Sapper answering.

1:28:16 > 1:28:18We are trying to help them home.

1:28:18 > 1:28:21Please keep R/T silence unless urgent. Over.

1:28:21 > 1:28:24Hello, Sapper. OK, absolutely. Out.

1:28:24 > 1:28:28- 0-7-0.- 0-6-0.- 0-9-5.

1:28:28 > 1:28:31Pimpernel Leader. "R" Robert 8-0-7-4.

1:28:31 > 1:28:34Get all the pilots you can on Fighter 6-2.

1:28:34 > 1:28:37Well, they ought to make Manston if he's got height enough.

1:28:38 > 1:28:42Who was it said that waiting was the worst part of war?

1:28:42 > 1:28:45I don't know.

1:28:56 > 1:28:59'Hello, Septic, Peter Moon here.

1:28:59 > 1:29:01'Try and make some height, old man.

1:29:01 > 1:29:05'Try and make some height. Over.

1:29:05 > 1:29:09'Hello, leader. Septic answering.

1:29:09 > 1:29:11'Doing my best.

1:29:11 > 1:29:13'No power.

1:29:14 > 1:29:17'Can't seem to get her nose...'

1:29:19 > 1:29:22He sounds in a bad way, sir.

1:29:22 > 1:29:25Hope he remembers to switch over to receive.

1:29:25 > 1:29:28He will. He's learned that lesson.

1:29:31 > 1:29:34- Hello. Where are you off to? - Just off to the bungalow.

1:29:34 > 1:29:35Some of the boys are still airborne.

1:29:35 > 1:29:38- Is Septic with them?- I don't know. Very probably, I should think.

1:29:38 > 1:29:41I'm just dashing home to change. I got held up at the hospital.

1:29:41 > 1:29:43Hope he's not down yet.

1:29:43 > 1:29:44I don't want to be late for our first assignment.

1:29:44 > 1:29:47- You'd better hurry, then. - Yes, bye. Be seeing you.- Bye.

1:29:53 > 1:29:57'Hello, Sapper. Hello, Sapper.

1:29:57 > 1:29:59'Elfin One calling.

1:29:59 > 1:30:01'Elfin One calling.

1:30:03 > 1:30:05'Are you receiving me?

1:30:05 > 1:30:08'Are you receiving me?

1:30:08 > 1:30:12'Elfin One over to Sapper, over.'

1:30:12 > 1:30:15That was his call sign when he first came in to Neethley.

1:30:22 > 1:30:23'Hello, Sapper...

1:30:24 > 1:30:26'Septic calling.

1:30:27 > 1:30:31'Septic calling.

1:30:31 > 1:30:33'Please...

1:30:35 > 1:30:38'..tell the Tiger

1:30:38 > 1:30:40'our race

1:30:40 > 1:30:45'will have to be postponed...

1:30:45 > 1:30:48'indefinitely.

1:30:48 > 1:30:51'Out.'

1:30:57 > 1:30:59Hello, Septic. Hello, Septic.

1:30:59 > 1:31:01This is the Tiger answering.

1:31:07 > 1:31:09Your message received

1:31:09 > 1:31:11and understood.

1:31:14 > 1:31:16Out.