Silverstone airfield played an important role during World War II, first being used to defend the UK from attack and later to launch bomber missions against Nazi-occupied Europe. After the war ended in 1945, the airfield was converted to a racing circuit, with the first grand prix being held there in 1947 organized by the Royal Automobile Club.

1. Silverstone at War by Leon Cattanes

2. During the war. We were fighting for peace. The Dark Days

4. Silverstone was opened as a world war two airfield in 1943, near the leafy village of the same name.

5. It’s prime function was to instruct aircrews in the flying of Vickers Wellington twin engine bombers.

6. After the war, the Royal Automobile Club arranged for James Wilson Brown to make the first grand prix circuit and he had two months to build it.

7. The End