Opera explores RAF base arson and Welsh nationalism

Vittle said that, across Wales, about 500,000 people – roughly 20% of the population at the time – attended rallies and public meetings opposing the plans, but their protests fell on deaf ears.

By September, with construction in the very early stages, the three felt they needed to take direct action before planes and personnel were based there, after which the potential for casualties and damage would be much greater.

“It was very much a symbolic act, not meant to endanger life or property, but to convey the anger of Welsh people,” said Vittle.

“Along with six helpers who Valentine, Saunders and Williams refused to name at trial, several small fires were set, burning down a handful of temporary huts.

“No-one was injured and the estimated damage was £3,000, which even in 1930s’ prices was negligible in terms of military spending.”

Immediately after, the three handed themselves into the nearest police station, admitted their crime and presented a written statement for their motives.

They stood trial in Caernarfon, where a sympathetic jury failed to reach a verdict – with Vittle saying that the foreman even congratulated them in the local pub after the mistrial.

Not content with the outcome, the Crown sought a retrial at the Old Bailey, where they were found guilty and sentenced to nine months imprisonment.

“From the perspective of Valentine, Saunders and Williams, the judicial process couldn’t have gone better”, said Vittle.

“They’d proved the support of their own community in Caernarfon and then went on to become political prisoners on the enormous stage of the Old Bailey. If you like, they’d had their cake and eaten it.”

Released a fortnight early in August 1937, they returned home to a rapturous crowd of more than 15,000.