Stage tribute to pioneer welcomes special guest (From York Press)

Dr Sandy Saunders attends The Guinea Pig Club premiere at York Theatre Royal

8:40am Monday 8th October 2012 in News By Press reporter

A SECOND World War glider pilot was the guest of honour at the premiere of a play about the plastic surgeon who helped transform his life.

The Guinea Pig Club at York Theatre Royal is based on the true story of plastic surgeon Sir Archibald McIndoe, who turned from fashioning the noses of starlets to pioneer the most challenging procedures in surgical history, including the complete reconstruction of the human face.

Dr Sandy Saunders, 89, who suffered serious burns in an aircrash in 1945, underwent a string of operations at the hands of Sir Archibald, as did many other severely burned pilots – or the Guinea Pig Club as they came to be known.

He was invited to attend the premiere of the play, which stars Graeme Hawley and Fiona Dolman.

Speaking to The Press last month, Dr Saunders said Sir Archibald inspired him to become a doctor and he remains friends with a number of the Guinea Pig Club.

“I was able to face the world again,” he said.

The Guinea Pig Club will run until October 27. For tickets, phone 01904 623568.