Moored on the Thames, HMS Belfast has become a permanent fixture in the landscape of London, but since her initial launch over 80 years ago she has seen action at D-Day and during the Korean War. In this episode, James speaks to Robert Rumble, lead curator for HMS Belfast, about the ship and, in particular, her service in the Arctic Convoys during the Second World War. Listen to find out about HMS Belfast’s contribution to the Battle of the North Cape, the people on board and the strange (and sad!) story of Olga the reindeer.

For more, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter here. 

If you'd like to learn more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at History Hit - subscribe today!

To download the History Hit app, go to Android or Apple store.