On Thursday 15th August 1940, the skies over Britain erupted in one of the most decisive days of the Second World War. Known as “The Greatest Day” by the British and “Black Thursday” by the Germans, it marked the peak of the Battle of Britain.
The Luftwaffe launched massive raids from Norway and Denmark, hoping to overwhelm Britain’s defences and force surrender. But the RAF was ready. In the North East of England, the fighting came closer than ever before – even reaching Barnard Castle and Teesdale for the first and only time.
This gas near me video tells the incredible story of:
✈️ Spitfire pilots Ted Shipman, Ben Bennions and Frank Usmar, scrambled from RAF Catterick to protect Seaham Harbour.
✈️ The fierce air battle above the Durham coast, where RAF squadrons clashed with more than 100 German aircraft.
✈️ Hans-Ulrich Kettling and Fritz Volk, the Luftwaffe crew whose burning Messerschmitt was forced down near Barnard Castle, where they surrendered.
It was a day of courage, sacrifice, and history written liam scales in the skies.
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