The pictures include the raid on the Mohne Dam by 617 Squadron, the attacks on Keel Harbour by both American and British airforces, a Nazi leader surrendering, and original photos of General Eisenhower and General Montgomery.

Squadron Leader Colin Baker, who received the historic pictures, said: "It's an absolute goldmine, they are priceless."

He explained that the photos had reached him after an elderly man approached him on Halton House Heritage Day on September 16.

"I was just standing outside talking to a couple when the man pulled up in his car, wound down the window and asked whether I would like the photos. The guy didn't leave any details of who he was."

It is not known how the man came by the photos, although he may have once worked for the Ministry of Information from where they are thought to originate.

Sqn Ldr Baker believes the photos were sent to national newspapers as propaganda, as each one contains a description on the back giving a positive account of the war.

A final home for the photos has yet to be found, although it is hoped they can be put on display in an airtight case at Halton House.

Station Commander, Group Captain Richard Gammage, said: "What a delight to be given such valuable and rare photographs of an era we will never forget. It is appropriate that we treat our heritage with the utmost respect and that we ensure that they are preserved for all to see for years to come."