In 1943 Colin Armitage’s ship was torpedoed in the South Atlantic. He scrambled aboard a life raft. 50 days later HMS Rapid rescued him.
Colin was the grandfather of Louise Beech. 64 years after his ordeal Louise’s daughter, Katy, was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. In order to distract her during insulin injections Louise began to tell the story of Colin’s bravery and determination to survive.
The story inspiring Katy to be brave in the face of her diabetes is a true one. She has said that Grandad Colin’s experience made her determined to carry on when she wanted to give up and die: If Grandad Colin can survive an ordeal like that, I can do anything. I can do these injections. And she has never faltered.
We hope that by presenting this story we can inspired audiences in the East Riding and beyond. The scenes alternate between the life raft and Katy’s house in Hull.
Go to: www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/w3cswlf3 to hear more of Katy’s story
Content warning: Please note this play contains moderate swearing.
RUNNING TIMES
Act 1: 1h 05m
INTERVAL: 20 minutes
Act 2: 1h 15m