In 1942 the Luftwaffe had a stranglehold on Malta. In the months of April and May, they dropped more bombs on the Island than London in the entire Blitz. British attempts to bring in supplies were failing with heavy losses and the people of Malta were close to starvation. Winston Churchill made a personal decision that at all costs the island fortress must be saved. Operation Pedestal saw an armada of 50 British ships attempt to fight its way in convoy to the island. Max Hastings, one of Britain’s most acclaimed historians, brings to life in his trademark thrilling narrative this little-known yet pivotal naval battle, telling the story of Operation Pedestal – the fleet that ultimately saved Malta.

This is a pre-recorded event which will be available for 30 days from 9am on 25 September to 9pm on 25 October.