'Sarratt and the Draper of Watford' (1979) by John le Carré

'Sarratt and the Draper of Watford' is a reflection on skiing and the discipline and dangers involved in downhill racing. It focuses on themes of physical endurance, skill, and the mental fortitude required for such a demanding sport.

The piece is autobiographical in tone and fact, drawing on le Carré’s personal experiences and love for skiing, which he pursued with passion. The title may suggest connections to his fictional spy world due to the name 'Sarratt', but it instead serves as a meditation on a very different kind of challenge, one grounded in athleticism rather than espionage.

Note that John le Carré set his fictional spy-training school in Sarratt village, in his novel, 'The Secret Pilgrim'.

This audio also contains a short story by KGB Colonel, Mikhail Lyubimov, that focuses on Sarratt village.