Episode details

Radio Leeds,24 Jun 2026,6 mins

The Leeds pilot who took on the Luftwaffe

Hidden West Yorkshire

Available for over a year

John Freeborn, a Headingley pilot and Battle of Britain ace, is commemorated with a plaque at his home. He flew more hours in the war than many of his peers and was shot down over France before returning on foot. His story highlights the risks young pilots took and the local lives behind wartime service. If you know of any local legends, myths, or fascinating stories we should feature, drop us a line at hiddenwy@bbc.co.uk (Image: Getty)

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