We call then the Royal Engineers but they began as the Royal Sappers and Miners. And one of their original jobs was to dig ‘saps’ – dark, dangerous tunnels which stretched far under enemy lines. Pack a picked spot with explosives and bang went a target in a spectacular explosion.

They were still practising this lethal trade in the First World War when Martin Clark, an expert sapper, was chosen to carry out a very special mission. He never guessed that he would still be trying to succeed in the Second World War…

Story: Roger Sanderson

Art: Keith Shone

Cover: Ian Kennedy