In this exclusive talk Monty Halls reveals the story behind the filming of Channel 4’s hit series 'WWII’s Great Escapes - The Freedom Trails.’ Monty and the film crew trekked through some of the most dramatic terrain in Europe, following in the footsteps of servicemen and women attempting to escape Nazi occupation. The escapees were helped along the way they were helped by local people - at huge risk to themselves - and the series also met and interviewed the civilians, partisans and resistance fighters who made the trails a reality.

The talk describes the routes themselves - through the stunning Appenine Mountains of Italy, the stark beauty of the Pyrenees, and the forests of Slovenia. Using images and footage from the series, it tells tales of heroism, endurance, sacrifice and humanity. Described by the media as “tv Gold” and “unmissable” and on social media as “the tv event of the year”, the talk tells the stories behind the making off the series, revealing remarkable new facts about the escapees, the trails, and the people who helped them. 

The presentation shows previously unseen footage, as well as images taken throughout the filming process. The presentation is ideal for anyone who watched the series, or those who enjoy trekking some of the most spectacular trails in Europe, or indeed anyone interested in heroism and sacrifice. After the talk Monty will also be signing books of the series “Escaping Hitler - Stories of Courage and Endurance on the Freedom Trails