Tens of thousands of recruits passed through Bridgnorth for their initial eight weeks training or ‘square bashing’ as it was called and included entertainer Des O’Connor, comedian Ronnie Corbett and ex-test cricketers Cyril Washbrook and Raman Subba Row. One of the notable commanders on recruit training after the Second World War was Squadron Leader George 'Johnny' Johnson, one of the aircrew who took part in the Dambusters Raid.