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.
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'.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
@@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.
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.
As an ex serviceman 'Carry on Seargent'. But starring Mr. Butterworth 'Carry on Screaming' as Dectiective Constable Slobotham alongside Harry H Corbett.
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.
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".
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)
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
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.
Thank you. Always found him funny when I was a child. Odd thing is I have thinking about him over the last few weeks and came across this presentation. Fascinating and a real unsung hero. RIP Peter, sir. 🙏🙏
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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'.
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👍
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Amazing how everything intertwined, 826 NAS was my first front line squadron. It’s incredible how history touches aspects of our lives that we would never have imagined. Thank you for sharing this story.
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.
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
Butterworth was supreme portraying nervous Englishmen for comic effect. He spoke the last words of Carry on up the Kyber, after a scene redolent of the sieges of the Indian mutiny, with the elite enjoying a surreal meal, bullets flying and shells exploding all around, he nervously turns to the camera and states; “You know, they’re all BARKING mad”. If that didn’t summarise the madness of Empire, and the sacrifices expected, nothing will. Better than the “infamy, infamy” line in Carry on Cleo. They were my favourite Carry on films though. But can’t anyone remind the world of the slang meaning of the phrase “Kyber pass”? I think it would be a shame if the meaning was lost for future generations.
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.
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
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
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
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.
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
The "Great Escape" made me laugh, as all the British POW's were in rag-tag uniforms and Steve McQueen was poncing around in chino's and leather jacket. 😅😅
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.
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.
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." 👍
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
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.
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!
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.
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.
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
One of my father's best friends was one of the gymnasts of the Wooden Horse - Aubrey Niner. He was one of the special guests invited to the Imperial War Museum for an exhibition about POW life in 2004. My dad and he had trained together in the RAF and Aubrey got shot down in 1942 over France. (My old man luckily survived being shot down in North Africa and carried on missions until the end of hostilities). I actually didn't find about Niner's role in The Wooden Horse escape until a few years after my father died.
What a remarkable unassuming man !! As you said many of those who made the Stalag breaks possible will probably remain unknown - in their key efforts to win success 👍💯🔥🔥🔥
So many stars from that time with service histories, Harry H Corbett was a Royal Marine who fought the Japanese, David Niven who a lot isn’t known about his exploits, he refused to discuss them, Christopher Lee and more
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.
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I thought to myself- this story is worth of an episode of 'This Is Your Life'- and sure enough it was.
ua-cam.com/video/QAzj_diK8LA/v-deo.html
A good actor but never looked like the hero he was.
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'.
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All those great film actors from my childhood all sadly gone now , makes me feel old
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Yeah I know the feeling. Rather upsetting at times.
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, 🤣🇬🇧👍🙏
@@keithroberts5611 that’s very true
Jim Dale is still kicking
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.
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Amigo 😅😅😅😆😆😆✌️✌️✌️✌️
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!
Peter's performance during that dinner party scene in Carry on up the Khyber was absolutely hilarious.
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Legend
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.
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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.
Chuckling.
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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
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@TheHistoryChap the pleasure is mine, thanks for creating it!
Infamy has infamy they’ve all hit it for me
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.
Thanks for watching my video & your interesting comments.
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.
Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.
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.
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.
Thanks for watching my video & for taking the time to comment.
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.
@@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.
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.
Or indeed, extraordinary people!
As an ex serviceman 'Carry on Seargent'. But starring Mr. Butterworth 'Carry on Screaming' as Dectiective Constable Slobotham alongside Harry H Corbett.
Ha ha, you are biaised, but "Carry On Screaming" was hilarious (even if I was scared when I was a kid!)
"Frying tonight!"
Foul feet smell something Horrible
Great film, Script and performances.
Foul feet smell something horrible
Well done Chris "Carry on Sergeant" a real classic. Peter Butterworth a great man!
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Yep, my favourite too. Watched it many many times.
@@DaveAtkinsonBlackdogdave Personally I think the Carry On Series is a load of utter nonsense! Carry On Sergeant is such a classic with great actors!
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.
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Awesome, I didn't know this. I love that you are keeping our English culture alive.
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Carry on Up the Khyber for me, too.
The Khyber Pass slightly smaller on location in Wales!
Don't worry we'll save you some strawberry mousse
@@TheHistoryChap Oooooh! Matron!
Come, come now brother belcher…
Unlike you British, we are not tiffin-mad!
Such a face filled with kindness and humour. Loved him the Carry on films😊 God bless him.
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So lucky to have you tell these stories.We were also lucky to have had such brave and clever men.God bless them all.
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Great to hear about his wartime service, a hero and a comic, brilliant. thanks for that Chris
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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".
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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)
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Foul Feet Smell Something Awful…
@@paulklee5790 Foul feet, smell somethin 'Orrible. Classic line from a classic film
Very enlightening! You would never guess from his film roles that he was a war hero! Another great story.
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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
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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.
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"Strawberry Moouse , Strawberry Moouse" Cracks me up every time , Favourites are up the Khyber , Doctor , Cleo , Camping , Sergeant , up the Jungle ..
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Thank you. Always found him funny when I was a child. Odd thing is I have thinking about him over the last few weeks and came across this presentation. Fascinating and a real unsung hero. RIP Peter, sir. 🙏🙏
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
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What a hero, what an actor. Sadlly missed, thank goodness we can still see him on film.
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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.
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The name Flint means stone, as a secret agent you should know the significance of that statement
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.
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Carry on Cleopatra - ‘ Infamy!Infamy! They’ve all got in for me!’ 😂
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"Follow that Camel" and "Carry on England", great hero, thanks for sharing.
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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.
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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
Many of our actors served in the war. Look them up.
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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.
strawberry mousse!
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'.
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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👍
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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My grandfather too
What a great story. The greatest generation!
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Thanks for posting this story about an amazing man.
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I remember him on childrens TV in the 50;s with his stories and a Primus stove,funny bloke
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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.
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One of my favourite actors he was a natural
.
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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.
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Wow. I will watch his films with a new sense of reverence. Thank you for that.
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What a guy !...I gotta say carry on screaming with Kenneth Williams " frying tonight ! "
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Mate. I remember when that came out when I was in school. Everyone was saying it!
A wonderful story, beautifully told … as always. Thank you again Chris 😊
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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.
Thanks for sharing.
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.
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Hahaha - I don’t remember that one but it’s a classic! 😂😂😂
Absolutely amazing story thanks again Chris. I agree with you that Up the Khyber pass was one of my favs
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Peter Butterworth, without doubt my favourite carry-on actor, fantastic in my favourite carry-on film, carry-on Screaming.
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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'.
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Such interesting history and bravery. Love his ingenious ways to stop the Nazi's from successfully detecting the digging. An amazing person.
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Amazing how everything intertwined, 826 NAS was my first front line squadron. It’s incredible how history touches aspects of our lives that we would never have imagined. Thank you for sharing this story.
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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.
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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
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Butterworth was supreme portraying nervous Englishmen for comic effect. He spoke the last words of Carry on up the Kyber, after a scene redolent of the sieges of the Indian mutiny, with the elite enjoying a surreal meal, bullets flying and shells exploding all around, he nervously turns to the camera and states;
“You know, they’re all BARKING mad”. If that didn’t summarise the madness of Empire, and the sacrifices expected, nothing will. Better than the “infamy, infamy” line in Carry on Cleo. They were my favourite Carry on films though. But can’t anyone remind the world of the slang meaning of the phrase “Kyber pass”? I think it would be a shame if the meaning was lost for future generations.
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You did miss out Peter's role as the "Meddling Monk" alongside William Hartnell's Doctor in Dr Who.
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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.
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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
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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
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Great story. 👌
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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
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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.
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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
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Excellently put together as always. Thank you!.
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Thank you for this and to Mr Taylor for suggesting it.
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The "Great Escape" made me laugh, as all the British POW's were in rag-tag uniforms and Steve McQueen was poncing around in chino's and leather jacket. 😅😅
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Many thanks for posting this. Loved Peter esp' in Carry on Camping. Cheers, John.
ping.
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Carry on up the Khyber was my fave as a kid
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Another gem Chris. You never disappoint.
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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.
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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.
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Fantastic content as ever. Thank you keep up the great work :)
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Cracking video and what a story. Thank you.
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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."
👍
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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
I know a few real farmers like his character in that film! -:)
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.
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Absolutely brilliant.
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peter was always my fav carry-on star... irreplaceable talent of yesterday, sadly missed.
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Excellent. Thank you for that. So many good stories out there, just longing to be found by intrepid researchers.
I enjoy researching almost as much as I enjoy telling the stories.
I found this so interesting, you never know what goes on in people's lives. Thanks for posting this 👍
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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!
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Wonderful video. Thank you. Subscribed. 👍
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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.
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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.
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Very interesting. How about an item on Sam Kydd, actor, who was a POW and then played a POW in at least one film.
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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
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Enjoyed that immensely thank you 🙏👏
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Omg he was a Fleet Air Arm pilot. I never heard of this, even though I was one myself. Thankyou History Chap, Peter Butterworth, and Bob Taylor.
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One of my father's best friends was one of the gymnasts of the Wooden Horse - Aubrey Niner. He was one of the special guests invited to the Imperial War Museum for an exhibition about POW life in 2004. My dad and he had trained together in the RAF and Aubrey got shot down in 1942 over France. (My old man luckily survived being shot down in North Africa and carried on missions until the end of hostilities). I actually didn't find about Niner's role in The Wooden Horse escape until a few years after my father died.
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Beautiful story and presentation.
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I went to the same school as Bernard Breslaw, Coopers School in Bow,East London.
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What a remarkable unassuming man !! As you said many of those who made the Stalag breaks possible will probably remain unknown - in their key efforts to win success 👍💯🔥🔥🔥
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So many stars from that time with service histories, Harry H Corbett was a Royal Marine who fought the Japanese, David Niven who a lot isn’t known about his exploits, he refused to discuss them, Christopher Lee and more
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What an amazing story . There are so many interesting and heroic individuals from that era.
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