RAF leaflets

[cz_raf]

Hi all I would like to ask if anyone can describe me the principle how the leaflets were dropped? I know thew wer thrown through the flare tube but as far as I know they were somehow packed, was necessary to untie them before releasing or how it was working?

Many thanks in advance

Pavel

[Graham Boak]

There are references to them being packed in a roll, and it being necessary to remove a fastener - twine or rubber band I'm not sure - before placing the roll into the tube. Apparently more cynical aircrew dropped them without unfastening, perhaps in the hope they would do more damage should they hit someone or thing if dropped that way. I've also seen reference to losing control of the roll and the leaflets spread about the inside of the bomber - perhaps encouraging that particular crew to drop them still fastened!