The Spy who went back to bricklaying

Featuring Joseph Stalin and Marshall Tito, a Possilpark bricklayer's story offers a glimpse into the links between Glasgow and the post-war politics of Eastern Europe.

By Dr Anni Donaldson

Ned and pals after Yugo - Building site in Glasgow

It’s spring 1949, and Ned Donaldson, a 22-year-old bricklayer from Possilpark, is heading for Yugoslavia on an undercover spying mission. His spymasters at the London HQ of the British Communist Party have sent him into the heart of a propaganda war simmering in the international communist movement.

Featuring Joseph Stalin and Marshall Tito, Ned’s story offers some fascinating glimpses into the links between Ned, Glasgow and the post-war politics of Eastern Europe.