HISTORY enthusiasts will be able to see the past come alive in an an illustrated talk at the Army Flying Museum this September.

The story of naval pilots in the Battle of Britain will be the focus of the talk in Stockbridge.

Historian, Paul Beaver, will take to the stage at the recently refurbished Middle Wallop to tell the story of the ‘Forgotten Few’ on September 5.

Paul said: "For 20 years, the contribution of the Fleet Air Arm in the Battle of Britain went unrecognised by either the Admiralty or the Air Ministry

“In 1960, the definition of ‘veteran of the Battle’ was widened to cover two naval squadrons in Scotland and although the naval pilots were mentioned in official records and memorials, their individual histories have seldom been recognised.”

Paul will be using the research from his new book to tell the stories of some of the characters.

He added: “For the first time, the true commitment to the Battle of Britain of the Royal Navy’s Fleet Air Arm has been totted up.

“Nine of these young men lost their lives in the Battle and as many became aces. It is a story of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.

“One pilot, Sub-Lieutenant Dickie Cork became a legend to his fellow pilots of Fighter Command when he was selected to be Douglas Bader’s wingman – ‘one of the best pilots I have ever had in the Squadron’ was Bader’s verdict in November 1940.

“The Naval Few were forgotten and even written out of the official history for a while, but now their bravery has been properly recorded."

Paul will also highlight their successes and explain the significance of this naval-air force co-operation in the modern world of carrier aviation.

Spaces are limited and history lovers are advised to purchase tickets through www.armyflying.com/events or by calling 01264 781086.

The event will also run from 7pm to 9pm.