The Battle of Arnhem: Soldiers stories 75 years on

  • Border
10000 soldiers were dropped behind enemy lines... Only 2000 returned. Credit: PA Images

The battle of Arnhem in September 1944 saw some of the bloodiest fighting of WW2.

Around 35000 British, American and Polish soldiers were deployed behind enemy lines, most of them dropped by parachute.

It was ultimately a failed attempt to capture bridges on the Dutch and German border in order to open an attack route for allied forces.

The controversial initiative claimed the lives of more than 1,500 British soldiers and saw nearly 6,500 captured.

The Border Regiment and The Kings Own Scottish Borderers were both heavily involved in 'Operation Market Garden'- and sustained many casualties along the way.

As part of the 75th anniversary commemorations Tim Backshall explores the story of Arnhem and speaks to some of those who were involved.

  • Pupils from Annan Academy ahead of their visit to the Netherlands:

  • Wilf Oldham, aged 99, from the Border Regiment:

  • Geoff Roberts, 94, Kings Own Scottish Borderers: