Bombing of Broadcasting House
Episode 171, Oct 08, 2011, 08:42 AM
Broadcasting House was first bombed just after 8 p.m. on 15th October 1940. A 500lb delayed-action high explosive destroyed the BBC switchboard before the gram library on the fifth floor was hit. Staff tried to move the bomb, but it exploded. Seven BBC staff were killed. Parts of the fifth and sixth floor frontage of Broadcasting House were blown into Portland Place and studios were demolished.
The news that night was read by Bruce Belfrage. Although the explosion was clearly audible, and Bruce showered with dust, he continued. Just as you'd expect. This is said to be a re-construction, rather than a genuine recording of the moment.