Peter Butterworth: "Carry On" Star's Secret WW2 Story

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  • Опубликовано: 26 июн 2024
  • The secret wartime story of "Carry On" star, Peter Butterworth.
    Join my special member's channel:
    / @thehistorychap
    Watch my video about the real story behind WW2 movie "The Great Escape"
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    Peter Butterworth is best known for invariably playing a bumbling buffoon in the “Carry On films”.
    Appearing in 16 of the classic and quirky British comedies his roles included Citizen Bidet (Kenneth William’s sidekick) in “Carry On Don’t Lose Your Head”, the money grabbing farmer, Mr. Fidler in “Carry on Camping” and missionary, Brother Belcher in probably my favourite: “Carry On Up the Khyber”.
    But behind the comedy there is a secret story from World War 2.
    Because Peter Butterworth was a pilot shot down, just after Dunkirk and a captive in German Prisoner of War camps for 5 years.
    During which time he escaped digging a tunnel using a soup spoon, was a member of British intelligence unit MI9 and was involved in the two famous break outs from Stalag Luft III POW camp, both of which were made into films:“The Wooden Horse.” And “The Great Escape.”
    In fact, his wartime story only came to light long after he died.
    The little-known war time story of Peter Butterworth.
    Peter Butterworth
    1915 Born - Bramhall, Cheshire
    1940 Pilot, Fleet Air Arm.
    June 1940 Shot down over Netherlands & captured
    1941 Failed escape, sent to Stalag Luft iii
    1943 Wooden Horse Escape
    1944 The Great Escape
    1945 Liberated
    1946 Married Janet Brown
    1948 First movie break
    1965 First of 16 "Carry On" movies
    1978 Last movie
    1979 Died
    Buried at Danehill cemetery, East Sussex, England
    Chapters
    0:00 Intro
    1:22 WW2 Pilot
    2:17 Prisoner of War
    3:06 Stalag Luft III
    4:11 Wooden Horse Escape
    7:46 The Great Escape
    8:48 Espionage
    9:46 Acting Career
    10:43 Janet Brown & Peter Butterworth
    12:07 Carry On films
    13:31 Peter Butterworth Death
    Follow me at:
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    / thehistorychap
    My name is Chris Green and I love to share stories from British history. Not just because they are interesting but because, good or bad, they have shaped the world we live in today.
    History should not be stuffy or a long list of dates or kings & queens.
    So rather than lectures or RUclips animations, I tell stories that bring the past to life.
    My aim is to be chat as if I were having a coffee or meal with you. Jean in Maryland, USA recently wrote: "Chris, is the history teacher I wish I had at school!"
    Just for the record, I do have a history degree in Medieval & Modern history from the University of Birmingham.
    Disclaimer: All opinions and comments expressed in the 'Comments' section do not reflect the opinions of Chris Green Communication Ltd t/a The History Chap. All opinions and comments should contribute to the dialogue. Chris Green Communication Ltd does not condone written attacks, insults, racism, sexism, extremism, or otherwise questionable comments or material in the 'Comments' section, and reserves the right to delete any comment violating this rule or to block any poster from the channel.

Комментарии • 795

  • @oldfella3919
    @oldfella3919 Месяц назад +89

    I'm gobsmacked. I loved Peter Butterworth in the Carry-On films but had no idea as to his background and experiences. Still waters certainly run deep. My respects to Peter, another unsung British hero of WW2.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +4

      Thanks for watching my video,, glad you enjoyed it.

  • @Rkolb2798
    @Rkolb2798 Месяц назад +104

    All those great film actors from my childhood all sadly gone now , makes me feel old

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +4

      Thanks for watching my video

    • @davidcross8028
      @davidcross8028 Месяц назад +4

      Yeah I know the feeling. Rather upsetting at times.

    • @keithroberts5611
      @keithroberts5611 Месяц назад +6

      Me to, At least us old one's can remember when comedy was funny and none P/Correct, We've seen the best of the best, 🤣🇬🇧👍🙏

    • @Rkolb2798
      @Rkolb2798 Месяц назад +5

      @@keithroberts5611 that’s very true

    • @Learn_Daily
      @Learn_Daily Месяц назад +4

      Jim Dale is still kicking

  • @harryshriver6223
    @harryshriver6223 Месяц назад +144

    What an intriguing and interesting story, I had no idea Mr. Butterworth led such a fascinating life and admired his bravery and courage. I am glad to be a part of helping bring this story to the world. Well done, amigo, and I need to watch Carry On soon.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +8

      Thanks for watching my video.

    • @nanakay121
      @nanakay121 Месяц назад +3

      Amigo 😅😅😅😆😆😆✌️✌️✌️✌️

    • @Fred-px5xu
      @Fred-px5xu Месяц назад +11

      An absolute winner! I enjoyed your video lecture on Mr Butterworth. Hero is word that falls short to describe his deeds; however, this mini documentary does justice to man. Thank you Sir . Oh.. Sir more please!

  • @chuckwagon7354
    @chuckwagon7354 Месяц назад +19

    Peter's performance during that dinner party scene in Carry on up the Khyber was absolutely hilarious.

  • @BsktImp
    @BsktImp Месяц назад +22

    Imagine doing so much during the war yet being passed over for a film about such episodes because "you don't look like someone who do such things"! Thanks for sharing Lt. Butterworth's story.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

    • @TeddyBear-ii4yc
      @TeddyBear-ii4yc Месяц назад +2

      Yes, I didn't know this... and these guys would be the last to publish it. All these guys from this era had done their war service so it was a common thing and it woulda been tasteless to seek glory from it.
      From the earlier war Basil Radford carried a scar on his cheek while his peer Basil Rathbone served in the trenches.

  • @zippy5131
    @zippy5131 Месяц назад +63

    As an ex serviceman 'Carry on Seargent'. But starring Mr. Butterworth 'Carry on Screaming' as Dectiective Constable Slobotham alongside Harry H Corbett.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +7

      Ha ha, you are biaised, but "Carry On Screaming" was hilarious (even if I was scared when I was a kid!)

    • @adventussaxonum448
      @adventussaxonum448 Месяц назад +8

      "Frying tonight!"

    • @jak1590
      @jak1590 Месяц назад +6

      Foul feet smell something Horrible

    • @willtricks9432
      @willtricks9432 Месяц назад +2

      Great film, Script and performances.

    • @mariaefelices6543
      @mariaefelices6543 Месяц назад +1

      Foul feet smell something horrible

  • @davidwhite4874
    @davidwhite4874 Месяц назад +73

    Carry on Up the Khyber for me, too.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +11

      The Khyber Pass slightly smaller on location in Wales!

    • @akajasonbourne
      @akajasonbourne Месяц назад +8

      Don't worry we'll save you some strawberry mousse

    • @davidwhite4874
      @davidwhite4874 Месяц назад +4

      @@TheHistoryChap Oooooh! Matron!

    • @jon9021
      @jon9021 Месяц назад +8

      Come, come now brother belcher…

    • @Nemesis-222
      @Nemesis-222 Месяц назад +4

      Unlike you British, we are not tiffin-mad!

  • @mowvu5380
    @mowvu5380 Месяц назад +17

    I'm only 38 but i was made to watch all the carry on films as a kid.
    and i love them lol. so silly and harmless.
    what a legend peter butterworth is

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +1

      Thanks for watching my video.

    • @mowvu5380
      @mowvu5380 Месяц назад

      @TheHistoryChap the pleasure is mine, thanks for creating it!

    • @youtubeyoutube936
      @youtubeyoutube936 Месяц назад

      Infamy has infamy they’ve all hit it for me

  • @Valkanna.Nublet
    @Valkanna.Nublet Месяц назад +80

    When I first heard that he had been refused a role for something he actually took part in because he 'didn't look the part' I laughed, but then I got annoyed because it shows that film companies are often too interested in pretty people and not ordinary people.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +2

      Thanks for watching my video & for taking the time to comment.

    • @wessexdruid7598
      @wessexdruid7598 Месяц назад +20

      It reminds me of Donald Pleasance, while filming 'The Great Escape'; who when trying to correct something was verbally abused by the director, not realising Donald had actually been a WW2 RAF POW. The US director was then firmly put in his place by the likes of Charles Bronson & James Garner, who also had war service.

    • @Vic-ng8if
      @Vic-ng8if Месяц назад +11

      @@wessexdruid7598 My favourite story was when Eisenhower went to visit Korea and went up to the line, asked some squaddies what they would like to have for Christmas and he was told 'To get the F out of here and go home' the soldier was Michael Caine lol.

    • @nocturnal1147
      @nocturnal1147 Месяц назад +6

      True and things can get even worse when America gets hold of history and changes everything good to them.

    • @williamjohnson4117
      @williamjohnson4117 Месяц назад +8

      A similar thing happened to character actor Percy Herbert, who auditioned for a part in The Bridge on the River Kwai but was dismissed at the audition by David Lean as "not the type". Herbert apparently shouted, "What do you mean? I was there!" And for once, Lean backed down and cast him.

  • @robert-trading-as-Bob69
    @robert-trading-as-Bob69 Месяц назад +51

    Excellent video as usual!
    My late moms maiden name was Butterworth.
    One day my mom dropped a grape, and as it rolled across the floor, my dad quipped "The Grape Escape!"
    I still laugh at that one today.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +8

      Chuckling.
      Thanks for watching and I'm glad that you enjoyed it.

  • @austenj4539
    @austenj4539 Месяц назад +4

    In 'Carry On Camping', Peter played the part of the grasping and greedy campsite owner and I always enjoyed his line to Sid James in which he realised that £1 per tent could be extended to "per person".
    His facial expressions, as always, conveyed as much as any delivered line. Great, natural acting.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video & your interesting comments.

  • @akula9713
    @akula9713 Месяц назад +25

    Such a face filled with kindness and humour. Loved him the Carry on films😊 God bless him.

  • @ronaldpainting5614
    @ronaldpainting5614 Месяц назад +12

    What a hero, what an actor. Sadlly missed, thank goodness we can still see him on film.

  • @terryjacob8169
    @terryjacob8169 Месяц назад +7

    I had no idea of Peter Butterworth's wartime experiences. Loved him when I was a kid in the 1950's. When my family moved to Crawley, Sussex, in 1956 he was very much our local celebrity, living in a big house on the edge of the neighbourhood, Ifield, that we'd moved to. For a couple of years after we'd moved there, he used to be a frequent visitor to our local shopping parade, always arriving in a two-seater Jaguar XK120 coupe. RIP Peter, another unsung hero of 'the greatest gerneration'.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video & for sharing your family story.

  • @BLTwithMayo1
    @BLTwithMayo1 Месяц назад +13

    Awesome, I didn't know this. I love that you are keeping our English culture alive.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +1

      Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

  • @franceswright3597
    @franceswright3597 Месяц назад +5

    Peter was very often on BBC tele when I was growing up; I always loved him as he had the ability to cheer people up, and somehow you knew he was a lovely person.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it

  • @j.dmetalhead7517
    @j.dmetalhead7517 Месяц назад +23

    Peter was allways in the background in the Carry on films. For me his best role was as Detective constable Slowbottom in Carry on screaming (also my favourite carry on film)

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +1

      Thanks for watching my video

    • @paulklee5790
      @paulklee5790 Месяц назад +1

      Foul Feet Smell Something Awful…

    • @j.dmetalhead7517
      @j.dmetalhead7517 Месяц назад

      @@paulklee5790 Foul feet, smell somethin 'Orrible. Classic line from a classic film

  • @Katmando376
    @Katmando376 Месяц назад +33

    Well done Chris "Carry on Sergeant" a real classic. Peter Butterworth a great man!

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +2

      Glad you enjoyed my video

    • @DaveAtkinsonBlackdogdave
      @DaveAtkinsonBlackdogdave Месяц назад +2

      Yep, my favourite too. Watched it many many times.

    • @Katmando376
      @Katmando376 Месяц назад

      @@DaveAtkinsonBlackdogdave Personally I think the Carry On Series is a load of utter nonsense! Carry On Sergeant is such a classic with great actors!

  • @ProfessorM-he9rl
    @ProfessorM-he9rl Месяц назад +29

    Thank you for this, it still amazes me to this day when stories like this are revealed. Total respect to Lt. Butterworth. Please more stories of those brave people who did amazing things before becoming normal TV/Stage stars that we loved to watch.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +2

      Thanks for watching my video & for taking the time to comment.

  • @NeilPatton1962
    @NeilPatton1962 Месяц назад +7

    Well I learnt something here. Thank you. Real heroes like Mr. Butterworth should never be forgotten, so telling and re-telling his story is an excellent contribution to the internet.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +1

      Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it

  • @brianjones7907
    @brianjones7907 Месяц назад +10

    "Strawberry Moouse , Strawberry Moouse" Cracks me up every time , Favourites are up the Khyber , Doctor , Cleo , Camping , Sergeant , up the Jungle ..

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      thanks for your comment & for watching my video.

  • @goldilocks913
    @goldilocks913 Месяц назад +5

    Carry on Cleopatra - ‘ Infamy!Infamy! They’ve all got in for me!’ 😂

  • @davidtownsend3
    @davidtownsend3 Месяц назад +4

    My father, Sergeant Pilot Kenneth Townsend, was shot down in his Hurricane over Belgium on 30th May 1940. He was badly burned on his face and head and spent several months in a Belgian convent hospital before being moved to a series of POW camps. He was in the same camp as Peter Butterworth, Rupert Davies and Talbot Rothwell. Jimmy Edwards was also there. My father took part in and played trombone in the shows organised by Talbot Rothwell. He was released in 1944 as part of a prisoner exchange.
    I clearly remember one day in the fifties my father was reading the paper and half listening to the TV which he had bought for the Coronation. He looked up and said he had heard all the jokes before in the film that was on. It was one of the early Carry On films with the script by Talbot Rothwell.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video & for sharing your family story.

  • @craigmorgan8493
    @craigmorgan8493 Месяц назад +12

    I had the pleasure of meeting Airey Neave as a kid when he visited our school. He gave a brilliant talk and had some items with him that amazed us kids. A German Wehrmact belt buckle made out of soap and an officers belt made out of a shaved, stiffened blanket amongst others. As a child brought up on comics like the Victor and Commando mini books, as well as being a Lord Peter Flint spy, I was fascinated by the man.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +1

      Thanks for watching my video & for taking the time to share your story.

  • @charliemanson4808
    @charliemanson4808 Месяц назад +34

    What an amazing hidden past! So many of our entertainers from that time had interesting military service, Milligan, Seacombe, Bentine etc ohhh and Up The Khyber Pass has to be the best Carry On caper...the dinner scene was a brilliant satire on the stiff upper lip

    • @charlieyerrell9146
      @charlieyerrell9146 Месяц назад +5

      Many of our actors served in the war. Look them up.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +4

      Thanks for watching my video & for taking the time to comment.

    • @simonm7133
      @simonm7133 Месяц назад +1

      So agree. The Khyber Carry on was the best one they ever did, partly because it was brilliant satire as well as the usual slapstick.

    • @neilclark2245
      @neilclark2245 Месяц назад

      strawberry mousse!

  • @martinhogg5337
    @martinhogg5337 Месяц назад +8

    Very enlightening! You would never guess from his film roles that he was a war hero! Another great story.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

  • @tonywaterhouse5291
    @tonywaterhouse5291 Месяц назад +13

    Great to hear about his wartime service, a hero and a comic, brilliant. thanks for that Chris

  • @FranciscoPreira
    @FranciscoPreira Месяц назад +7

    "Follow that Camel" and "Carry on England", great hero, thanks for sharing.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

  • @LagerPetrol409
    @LagerPetrol409 Месяц назад +2

    Peter Butterworth was always one of my favourite of the Carry On team , loved all the characters he played and I just have to hear the names of the characters to send me into a giggle. Great man

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

  • @BoaFilmsPlc
    @BoaFilmsPlc Месяц назад +11

    You did miss out Peter's role as the "Meddling Monk" alongside William Hartnell's Doctor in Dr Who.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +1

      Thanks for watching my video & the comment.

  • @ronaldpoppe3774
    @ronaldpoppe3774 Месяц назад +8

    What a great story. I love hearing about actors who served in WW2. They truly are the greatest generation. My favorite Carry on was Carry on up the khyber. The dinner scene was the best. 😂😂. Thanks Chris! Cheers Ron

  • @johnsmith-ik6uz
    @johnsmith-ik6uz Месяц назад +6

    So lucky to have you tell these stories.We were also lucky to have had such brave and clever men.God bless them all.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

  • @deanstuart8012
    @deanstuart8012 Месяц назад +56

    Peter Butterworth was actually awarded the Mention in Despatches for his conduct as a prisoner of war.
    Although he didn't get a part in "The Wooden Horse", because of his role in the actual escape, one of the characters was renamed "Peter".

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +3

      Thanks for watching my video & for taking the time to comment.

  • @bikes02
    @bikes02 Месяц назад +11

    What a great story. The greatest generation!

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching, glad you enjoyed it.

  • @loddude5706
    @loddude5706 Месяц назад +3

    To the memory of Vic Housego, Peter's friend & fellow POW, who went on to dedicate the rest of his life to caring for his disabled son; a worthy gentleman indeed & fine example of 'that generation'.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video & for sharing your interesting story.

  • @gerardskippon3099
    @gerardskippon3099 Месяц назад +7

    My Wife's Favourite is "Carry On Screaming"
    Me "Carry On Up The Khyber".
    As to Mr Buterworth an amazing History and No one knew. Digging a Tunnel with a Soup Spoon. Blimey!
    RIP Peter Buterworth.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

  • @rochmel1409
    @rochmel1409 Месяц назад +9

    Carry on Sergeant. The first and by far the best Carry On film. By the way I believe ENSA was also known to stand for 'Every Night Something Awful'.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video & for your comment.

  • @1978JonBullock
    @1978JonBullock Месяц назад +3

    Another fascinating individual from a very resourceful era in time. There is a very long list of individuals who where very brave and determined during these very hard times. Peter and his comrades risked so much and many lost their lives.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video & for taking the time to comment.

  • @joeritchie4554
    @joeritchie4554 Месяц назад +4

    Such interesting history and bravery. Love his ingenious ways to stop the Nazi's from successfully detecting the digging. An amazing person.

  • @barrysharp9792
    @barrysharp9792 Месяц назад +7

    Thank you Chris for another great video revealing the true lives of the greatest generation. Any stories about these hero's is enough to make me watch.

  • @djlewis5149
    @djlewis5149 Месяц назад +6

    Peter famously told the story of going to a casting audition for “The wooden horse” and the director tellling him he was ‘too fat’ to be a POW. Brilliant bloke able to laugh at that

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video & for taking the time to tell your interesting story.

  • @johnbuxton6009
    @johnbuxton6009 Месяц назад +9

    One of my favourite actors he was a natural
    .

  • @andylees2940
    @andylees2940 Месяц назад +3

    Excellent video! Enjoyed the outrageous carry on films. Very impressed that he made so much of his time as a POW, what courage and resilience. Could not believe that he was sent over in a friggin biplane, a torpedo bomber! Must have known it was a one way trip, hope he stashed some extra ciggies. The Me110 pilot must have been laughing all the way home at the brits sending over such antiquities! RIP Butterworth and Thankyou for your sacrifices so I can be free today and Thankyou for all the laughter you brought to me too👍

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

  • @cheshirepiper9254
    @cheshirepiper9254 Месяц назад +13

    What a guy !...I gotta say carry on screaming with Kenneth Williams " frying tonight ! "

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +1

      Thanks for watching my video.

    • @Vic-ng8if
      @Vic-ng8if Месяц назад +1

      Mate. I remember when that came out when I was in school. Everyone was saying it!

  • @MervynPartin
    @MervynPartin Месяц назад +3

    I had previously heard about Peter Butterworth's wartime service, but your video hopefully brings a greater awareness to people of his courage. As for my favourite Carry On, it has to be Up the Khyber.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +1

      Thanks for your comments & for watching my video

  • @jamesabernethy7896
    @jamesabernethy7896 Месяц назад +5

    I know there were so many innuendoes in the Carry On films but they were always good family fun. I have always had a persistent interest in all periods of history. There is adventure, tragedy and incredulity in equal measure. I found your channel with the Dad's Army service career videos and love the enthusiasm you inject. As well as showing the brighter side of things (which isn't easy) you can also show these men and women the dignity they deserve. Great stuff.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video & also for your comment.

  • @mike-myke22
    @mike-myke22 Месяц назад +3

    There's a man who deserves a public statue in his honour.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +1

      Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

  • @28pbtkh23
    @28pbtkh23 Месяц назад +3

    Thanks for posting this story about an amazing man.

  • @andrewsteele7663
    @andrewsteele7663 Месяц назад +5

    Good morning, Chris, another cracking story. I grew up in the UK watching the Carry-On movies. and what fun they were. Thanks again, Cheers.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

  • @MichaelGeoghegan
    @MichaelGeoghegan Месяц назад +6

    Carry on up the Khyber was my fave as a kid

  • @michaelbird3887
    @michaelbird3887 Месяц назад +5

    Oliver Philpott of the "Wooden Horse" escape also wrote his memoirs of the war, in a book called "Stolen Journey". This was the first WW2 prisoner book I ever read and remains possibly the best ever written of the experiences of being a prisoner.

  • @rayknowelden4363
    @rayknowelden4363 Месяц назад +14

    Great story. 👌

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +2

      Glad you liked it! Thanks for watching.

  • @gregbolitho9775
    @gregbolitho9775 Месяц назад +3

    Peter Butterworth, is in my list of top 40 actors. Peter Butterworth, wasn't the only actor who had wartime fun. Richard Todd for one. Dick Emery only arrived Downunda in the Dick Emery Show. Cjarlie Chester was a new one on me. Nice goin bloke, keep up the good work.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video & for your feedback.

  • @derekp2674
    @derekp2674 Месяц назад +4

    Thanks very much Chris and Bob.
    As a young lad before WW2, my late uncle became a keen amateur short wave radio enthusiast, This became a lifelong hobby for him.
    But when called up for WW2, his radio skills were put to use use intercepting German radio traffic. Thus he spent most of the war gathering radio intercepts to feed to the code breakers at Bletchley Park. Like most others who worked there, he never talked about his wartime work. I only learned about if after his funeral.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +1

      Thanks for watching my video & for sharing your family story.

    • @katearmiger8535
      @katearmiger8535 23 дня назад

      My grandfather too

  • @user-uj7dm8jy6z
    @user-uj7dm8jy6z Месяц назад +1

    peter was always my fav carry-on star... irreplaceable talent of yesterday, sadly missed.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

  • @patriciawhite619
    @patriciawhite619 Месяц назад +1

    We as family were on a break in Hastings, many years ago. My dad wandered off for a walk, as he did; when he eventually returned, mum wanted to know what he was up to. He said he met Peter Butterworth and they sat on a bench having a super conversation. My dad could cajole conversation out of anyone. My dad also same age as my dad although my dad was tankie.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video & for sharing your family story.

  • @paulrichards2350
    @paulrichards2350 Месяц назад +5

    Brilliant story, Peter was one of my favourite Carry On actors especially the farmer in Carry on Camping, how much?” Pound”😂 this video opens your eyes to a brave man

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +3

      I know a few real farmers like his character in that film! -:)

  • @iainhunneybell
    @iainhunneybell Месяц назад +1

    A wonderful story, beautifully told … as always. Thank you again Chris 😊

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching, glad you enjoyed it.

  • @Buggsy61
    @Buggsy61 Месяц назад +2

    Excellently put together as always. Thank you!.

  • @Vic-ng8if
    @Vic-ng8if Месяц назад +4

    That was fantastic mate. I didn't know anything about that and that his wife was Janet Brown! I always loved his characters especially in Carry on Screaming! Thanks also to the chap that suggested it. Well done all

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +1

      thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

  • @howardjolley2215
    @howardjolley2215 Месяц назад +3

    A very interesting story about a good man and actor. Loved his roles in the Carry On movies, especially, like you, Carry On Up the Khyber. I still watch them all. Have a half dozen recorded from TV. Thanks again Chris.

  • @willtricks9432
    @willtricks9432 Месяц назад +2

    Very interesting and shows what a great actor he was, The Mrs Thatcher impressions were also top notch. Thanks for a great tale of Daring Do.

  • @user-fc9xq5df2l
    @user-fc9xq5df2l Месяц назад +2

    Wow. I will watch his films with a new sense of reverence. Thank you for that.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

  • @BootsontheTable
    @BootsontheTable Месяц назад +3

    Absolutely amazing story thanks again Chris. I agree with you that Up the Khyber pass was one of my favs

  • @chrispomphrett4283
    @chrispomphrett4283 Месяц назад +1

    I met Peter when he played Willie Strokes, I kid you not... I operated one follow-spot (light) at Scarborough opera house where they played the Carry on Laughing show in 1976. A very, very nice down to earth chap and well liked. Nice to hear this additional background info on his life. Thank you

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for taking the time to share your experience

  • @madrafboy
    @madrafboy Месяц назад +3

    Does anyone remember Peter Butterworth playing a tramp who told stories on BBC Children's hour in the 50s or 60s. It used to be a favourite of mine. He used to light a candle underneath a makeshift stove and tell a story whilst waiting for the water to boil. Lovely man.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video, someone out there might also remember the programme.

  • @gazza2933
    @gazza2933 Месяц назад +2

    You can walk passed people in the street and you just never know.
    An amazing story!
    Peter's son Tyler played the part of a vicar in
    "The Darling Buds Of May."
    I think most of us who have been through Basic (Military)Training, it's the first one. "Carry On Seargent."
    👍

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video & for your comment.

  • @anorthernsoul5600
    @anorthernsoul5600 Месяц назад +3

    What a wonderful video about Peter Butterworth, thanks Chris. Love the Carry On films, Khyber, Screaming and Cleo with the lovely Amanda Barry. Also Carry On Follow that Camel, "Mustapha Leak" the Bedouin prophet, doubt you'd get away with that one these days.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

    • @28pbtkh23
      @28pbtkh23 Месяц назад

      Hahaha - I don’t remember that one but it’s a classic! 😂😂😂

  • @davidmooney1253
    @davidmooney1253 Месяц назад +3

    Another gem Chris. You never disappoint.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Glad you enjoyed it, thanks for watching my video.

  • @ShaunTame-re5us
    @ShaunTame-re5us Месяц назад +3

    Cracking video and what a story. Thank you.

  • @ramblingbunnyable
    @ramblingbunnyable Месяц назад +2

    Thank you for this and to Mr Taylor for suggesting it.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

  • @paulbromley6687
    @paulbromley6687 Месяц назад +2

    I loved these comedy actors as a child, I am amazed how as I am now the age that Peter Butterworth died ti find out that he was actually an un sung hero of those time along with Private Godfrey from Dads Army who had served in the First World War I believe. There must be many more well known faces who had secret histories. Thank you for revealing this one.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

  • @jameswalkden7499
    @jameswalkden7499 4 дня назад

    How privileged we all are to be here to share, in some small way, in the life and history of so many wonderful and amazing human beings and characters,, famous or otherwise, stemming from what is the British Empire's greatest ever generations. It is, indeed, an honour to have actually shared this planet with them all. Their ilk, sadly, and most unfortunately, we will never see again. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts on behalf of your nation. P.S. Thank you very much for the post Chris and more like please.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  13 часов назад

      Thanks for watching my video & for your kind comments/

  • @daveyjones2215
    @daveyjones2215 Месяц назад +1

    I remember him on childrens TV in the 50;s with his stories and a Primus stove,funny bloke

  • @BMW7series251
    @BMW7series251 Месяц назад +3

    Many thanks for posting this. Loved Peter esp' in Carry on Camping. Cheers, John.
    ping.

  • @davidwoods7720
    @davidwoods7720 Месяц назад +1

    Thanks so much for this Chris

  • @tonywoodham3760
    @tonywoodham3760 Месяц назад +3

    Who would have believed it? What a character, I have always enjoyed his character in the carry on films, so funny but beneath that facade was a hero. God please Bless Him for us. Thank You.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

  • @akajasonbourne
    @akajasonbourne Месяц назад +3

    Being a carry on fan, I had been aware of Mr Butterworths military service during WW2.
    I enjoyed the video and learnt something new regarding PB.
    Favourite carry ons, screaming, which starred Harry H Corbett he himself had an interesting time in the military.
    And doctor

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +1

      Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching.

  • @1gerard47
    @1gerard47 Месяц назад +1

    Absolutely brilliant.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching, glad you enjoyed it.

  • @stirrednotshaken3111
    @stirrednotshaken3111 Месяц назад +3

    Fantastic content as ever. Thank you keep up the great work :)

  • @BigAmp
    @BigAmp Месяц назад +1

    Beautiful story and presentation.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

  • @stuartburns8657
    @stuartburns8657 Месяц назад +1

    Enjoyed that immensely thank you 🙏👏

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching & glad you enjoyed my video.

  • @historybuff1673
    @historybuff1673 Месяц назад +2

    Fascinating!

  • @kimbolton2842
    @kimbolton2842 29 дней назад

    I found this so interesting, you never know what goes on in people's lives. Thanks for posting this 👍

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  28 дней назад

      Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

  • @robcarter55
    @robcarter55 Месяц назад +2

    Excellent video.
    There is the story of Richard Todd who you may know was one of the first onto Pegasus bridge and then was in the film about it. Not playing himself but a major . As they approach the bridge however he can be heard to order his real self onto the bridge.
    A nice touch I thought and easy to miss in the film

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video & for your interesting feedback.

  • @nuffnow67
    @nuffnow67 Месяц назад +1

    Really enjoyed this

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

  • @theresabashford1726
    @theresabashford1726 Месяц назад +1

    Met him once, I was on a riding holiday as a teenage & his daughter was there the same week, though sum total of our interaction was him asking if his daughter was around and me saying yes I would get her.
    He certainly had an interesting life a documentary should be done about his life.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video & for sharing your family story.

  • @lanternsown3525
    @lanternsown3525 Месяц назад +4

    It's kinda wild that Peter Butterworth didn't a role in The Wooden Horse! His wartime service sounds like something out of Hogan Heroes.

  • @user-xh3lz9xt4l
    @user-xh3lz9xt4l Месяц назад +5

    I went to the same school as Bernard Breslaw, Coopers School in Bow,East London.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video & for your comment.

  • @caeserromero3013
    @caeserromero3013 Месяц назад +2

    10:34 "Not heroic looking enough," 🤣 Reminds me of that story about Donald Pleasance from The Great Escape when he was told to shut up by Sturges when he'd tried to make a suggestion about how German POW camps were run. It was only after filming wrapped that somebody told Sturges that Pleasance was a radio operator on a Lancaster that was shot down and he spent several years as a POW....

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +1

      Thanks for watching my video & for sharing your interesting story.

    • @caeserromero3013
      @caeserromero3013 Месяц назад +1

      @@TheHistoryChap Thanks for the videos, very enjoyable 👍

  • @user-cr1eu6qh6i
    @user-cr1eu6qh6i Месяц назад +1

    very informative and enjoyable

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

  • @Sandilandsandy
    @Sandilandsandy Месяц назад +2

    He was always my favourite in any Carry On movie, to me he was like Tommy Cooper you just laughed when you saw them, Mr Fiddler, a Pound £ 🤣 but had no idea what a Hero he was!💪

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +1

      Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

  • @Auntystatic
    @Auntystatic Месяц назад +1

    Donald Pleasence flew nearly 60 missions as a Lancaster wireless operator before getting shot down and spending time in Stalag Luft 1, Christopher Lee also had a very varied and colourful war time experience, I even saw an interview with him once showing his old special forces ID card when his attachment to the SAS/Long range dessert patrol was brought into question, I never got to speak with my grandad about his wartime experience he died when I was 8, but I know he was in Tobruk for 15 months under constant shelling with the Northumbrian Fusiliers

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video & for taking the time to share your interesting comments.

  • @shantanusapru
    @shantanusapru Месяц назад +1

    Wow!! Fascinating!!
    What a badass!!

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +1

      Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

  • @elwynj5379
    @elwynj5379 Месяц назад +1

    Fantastic! Great vid…

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Glad you enjoyed it, thanks for watching.

  • @gpo746
    @gpo746 Месяц назад

    THANK YOU for doing this .
    I have great respect and admiration for Peter Butterworth . Such a funny character in the Carry on's and a hero in the war .
    Its wonderful his P.O.W Record survives to confirm his presence in both camps .
    As for favourites , its hard to choose .
    My top 3 would be :
    1) Carry on Abroad - as the waiter
    "Sausage bins an Chippins , ...Choices ! You can having sausage an chippins ,sausage an bins or bins an chippins ...THATS choices " 😆
    2) Carry on Camping - Josh Fiddler " POUND" and when he cracks the eggs "I can't get away from myself" 😆
    3) Carry on up the Khyber a visual gag when he crowns himself when getting off the bed banging his head on the lamp and it rolling round his head 🤣- Dinner scene , "Wine?... they're all raving mad ! Stark bonkers the lot of them ! ,..... STRAWWWWBERRY MOUUUUSE " 🤣
    His facial expressions are hilarious
    Absolutely fantastic .

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video, glad hyou enjoyued it.

  • @scottp9048
    @scottp9048 Месяц назад

    Another remarkable story Chris ! Thank you.
    Favourite carry on for me has to be up the Khyber ! With Mr Butterworths “ strawberry mousse“ scene during the dinner party under siege 😂

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for your reply & for watching my video

  • @user-lt9py2pu6u
    @user-lt9py2pu6u Месяц назад +2

    Well remember Peter Butterworth from my childhood in the sixties, he was one of those actors who just seemed to be in movies or tv programs a lot. Sam Kydd, who was also a PoW, was another. Never got staring rolls but always added something, i particularly like Peter in Doctor Who as the meddling monk and of course as Brother Belcher in Carry On Up The Khyber.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video & for taking the time to comment.

  • @samrodian919
    @samrodian919 Месяц назад +1

    Great episode Chris, I never knew anything about Peter Butterworth's wartime experiences. He was a hero even in captivity. And it was lucky that he wasn't among those who escaped in 1944 from Stalagluft 3 and of those captured 50 murdered by the Gestapo on Hitler's orders. One of the other carry on stars Bernard Breslaw was on of my fathers nursing colleagues cousin and he came to open the hospital fete when I was a young man. Favourite Carry On film? Up the Khyber I think! Keep 'em coming Chris!

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Thanks for watching my video. glad you enjoyed it.

  • @paulwilson7234
    @paulwilson7234 Месяц назад +4

    Excellent video.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад +1

      Thank you very much!
      What would you like me to talk about in the future?

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Месяц назад

      Many thanks Paul.
      Lots more planned so please do subscribe to my channel so you don't miss them (in case you haven't already!)