Episode Details

Broadcaster and author Iszi Lawrence chooses the aviator Diana Barnato Walker.

Coming from a privileged background, Diana used her pocket money to take flying lessons, flew bombers during the Second World War, and - aged 45 - became the first British woman to break the sound barrier.

Iszi is joined by Giles Whittell, author of Spitfire Women of World War II, and Diana’s son Barney Walker.

Presenter: Matthew Parris

Producer: Beth Sagar-Fenton

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2023.