‘If any spur had been needed to induce prisoners to escape … the bleakness of the surroundings would have provided it.’ Stalag Luft III, Sagan, c. 1944.

Goon box.

Robert Kee, 1951. Like several escapologists he went on to a brilliant post-war career.

Wing Commander Harry Day provided the prisoners with outstanding leadership as they faced life behind the wire. Here, post-war, he briefs Kenneth Moore for his role as Douglas Bader in Reach for the Sky (1955).

Prisoners laying the foundations for a hut in Stalag Luft III.

Making themselves at home. Kriegies in a hut at Sagan in 1943.

The Germans were keen to advertise their correct behaviour. Cheerful co-operation between prisoners and camp staff is pointedly on display in this picture of the Red Cross parcel store.

Prisoners prepare a news sheet. Information about the progress of the war had a crucial effect on morale.

Gardening helped the days pass – and supplemented rations.

Prisoners attend an outdoor church service.

The veneer of correctness: an American airman who died in captivity is buried with military honours.

The road to freedom: the avenue leading away from Stalag Luft III where the long march began.

Halbau today.

Liberation day at Marlag und Milag Nord.

American prisoners celebrate their release by British troops.

Steve McQueen as Virgil Hilts, ‘The Cooler King’, in The Great Escape (1963).