Please note this event will be live at the East Manchester History and Gaming Centre, Knivton Street, Godley, Hyde, SK14 2PU. Click here for the exact location.

 Ray Withnall tells the previously unknown story of a Japanese Prisoner of War camp created for three thousand men to construct an airstrip at Ubon in north-east Thailand.

It begins when Thailand became a Japanese ally, followed by the secret formation of the Seri Thai resistance movement by a prominent Thai politician to oppose Japanese domination. Eventually, the British Special Operations Executive arrived in the Ubon area to train the Seri Thai, but the Japanese surrender abruptly changed their plan.

Ray's extensive research in Ubon has revealed the camp’s daily life, its unorthodox liberation, and the exceptional generosity from Ubon’s citizens, which is commemorated by a lasting memorial. The story describes disarming the Japanese, identifying war criminals, and suppressing remaining resistance, which sometimes ended tragically. It is a story of the faith held by the Prisoners of War, the Seri Thai, and the people of Thailand that one day the Japanese will be finished.

All are welcome and a lively discussion is guaranteed!

Admission £5 per attendee including tea/coffee and biscuits

Please note this eventwill be live at the East Manchester History and Gaming Centre, Knivton Street, Godley, Hyde, SK14 2PU. Click here for the exact location.

Admission is now £5

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