During the war Fontanellato in Italy was always a strongly anti-Fascist town and it was the home to a prisoner of war camp where many British soldiers were locked up during the war.

When the Armistice was signed, the British government warned our troops that they should stay put in Italy. Michael's father, Hugo had other ideas.

Michael Deburgh's father lead 600 fellow prisoners out of the camp and to safety. He was seen as a hero for his efforts.

He escaped by trekking in dangerous conditions over the Alps and into Switzerland. In 2013, his grandchildren followed his footsteps and recreated his hike. See the video below

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Michael's father (right) with Winston Churchill

Fontanellato Prison where Lt. DeBurgh rescued 600