When Britain's Heroes Worked in the Shadows: The Bishopstoke Players Brings Wartime Southampton to Life

THE SHADOW FACTORY by Howard Brenton

Step back to autumn 1940, when the fate of Britain hung in the balance. As the Battle of Britain raged overhead, Southampton became the beating heart of our nation's defence – home to the legendary Spitfire factory that was our only hope of victory.

But when the Luftwaffe's devastating raids destroyed the Woolston Supermarine Spitfire factory, ordinary people were called upon to do extraordinary things. The Government desperately requisitioned local businesses to serve as "shadow factories" – makeshift production sites to keep our Spitfires flying. Not everyone was willing to comply.

Meet Fred Dimmock, a stubborn family man who refuses to hand over his precious laundry business to anyone – not even for the war effort. As the Dimmocks and their neighbours fight to maintain control of their lives and livelihoods amid the chaos of wartime, an unforgettable story of resilience, courage, and unbreakable community spirit unfolds.

This autumn, discover the remarkable true story of how people right here in our local area triumphed over impossible odds 85 years ago. It's a tale of ordinary heroes whose determination helped win the war – and it happened on our doorstep. advertise in eastleigh advertise my business in eastleigh eastleigh business

Performance Details:

• Venue: Durley Memorial Hall

• Dates: Thursday 9th – Saturday 11th October

• Time: 7:30pm (doors open 7:00pm)

• Tickets: £12 adults | £8 under-16s

• Book now: No booking fee online, or call 07871 006551

• Email: boxoffice@bishopstokeplayers.uk

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Don't miss this powerful tribute to the unsung heroes of Southampton's wartime legacy.