Frank Tuck, pictured in 1989, on a visit to the German railway line he helped to build during his time in a forced labour camp

Frank Tuck, pictured in 1989, on a visit to the German railway line he helped to build during his time in a forced labour camp

After the war, most of the men applied to the West German government for 

compensation for their ordeals.

In 1955, eight of the men tried to appeal against their convictions but were unsuccessful on most counts, meaning they all had criminal convictions when they died.

The case was heard by the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council, which is the highest court of appeal for certain British territories, including Guernsey.

Dr Sanders said: "In the 1950s the illusion was upheld that British administration and justice in Guernsey had continued without being influenced by the Nazi occupation. This narrative continues right up until now."