Bombs dropped on Southend Borough during WWII

Bomb 3: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landed on central part of school, damaging the school hall. No injuries or casualties.

Bomb 6: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Hobleythick Lane. Responsible for injurying many and killing Robert Barrett Jolley (who lived at 25 Hobleythick Lane)

Bomb 48: High explosive bomb lands (one of 16 dropped that afternoon) at Manners Corner at 12:59pm, destroying flats and a ground floor shop where 15 year old Ruby Dawson was working. She died from her wounds three hours later.

Bomb 129: one of a series of 10 high explosive bombs dropped on a bombing run over Southchurch on the 19th of September 1940 and one of two bombs that hit Trinity Road. 5 were injured and 1 woman, 72 year old Martha Olding, was killed.

Bomb 125: One of a series of 10 high explosive bombs dropped on a bombing run over Southchurch on the 19th of September. 5 were injured and 1 woman, 72 year old Martha Olding, was killed.

Bomb 134: Prittlewell Priory bombed on 25th of September 1940.

Bomb 5: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Hobleythick Lane. Major damage to a few houses, minor damage to almost 100 houses and responsible for injuring up to 12 people.

Bomb 2: High Explosive bomb (50kg) which damaged the end of Southend High School for Boys' north wing. No injuries or casualties.

Bomb 4: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Hobleythick Lane. Failed to detonate.

Bomb 11: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing in Ulster Avenue.

Bomb 12: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing in Ulster Avenue.

Bomb 13: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing in Ulster Avenue.

Bomb 14: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing in West Road. A married couple, Mr and Mrs. Heard of 45 West Road, were killed when the bomb landed in their garden.

Bomb 15: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing in West Road.

Bomb 45: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Manners Way, 28 August 1940, 12.59pm.

Bomb 46: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Manners Way, 28 August 1940, 12.59pm.

Bomb 47: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Manners Way, 28 August 1940, 12.59pm.

Bomb 49: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Manners Way, 28 August 1940, 12.59pm.

Bomb 50: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Manners Way, 28 August 1940, 12.59pm.

Bomb 51: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Manners Way, 28 August 1940, 12.59pm. Unexploded.

Bomb 52: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Manners Way, 28 August 1940, 12.59pm. Unexploded.

Bomb 53: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Manners Way, 28 August 1940, 12.59pm. Unexploded.

Bomb 54: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Manners Way, 28 August 1940, 12.59pm. Unexploded.

Bomb 55: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Manners Way, 28 August 1940, 12.59pm. Unexploded.

Bomb 56: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Manners Way, 28 August 1940, 12.59pm. Unexploded.

Bomb 57: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Manners Way, 28 August 1940, 12.59pm. Unexploded.

Bomb 58: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Manners Way, 28 August 1940, 12.59pm. Unexploded.

Bomb 59: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Manners Way, 28 August 1940, 12.59pm. Unexploded.

Bomb 87: August 31st, 1940 - less than 100 incendiary bombs were dropped over 68, Thornford Gardens. No casualties reported.

Bomb 62: Enemy bomber shot down over Lifstan Way on 30th August 1940. Three of the crew of five were killed, two were detained. Seven unexploded H.E. bombs (6 250kg bombs and 1 50kg) were scattered around the crash site including this one.

Bomb 63: Enemy bomber shot down over Lifstan Way on 30th August 1940. Three of the crew of five were killed, two were detained. Seven unexploded H.E. bombs (6 250kg bombs and 1 50kg) were scattered around the crash site including this one.

Bomb 64: Enemy bomber shot down over Lifstan Way on 30th August 1940. Three of the crew of five were killed, two were detained. Seven unexploded H.E. bombs (6 250kg bombs and 1 50kg) were scattered around the crash site including this one.

Bomb 65: Enemy bomber shot down over Lifstan Way on 30th August 1940. Three of the crew of five were killed, two were detained. Seven unexploded H.E. bombs (6 250kg bombs and 1 50kg) were scattered around the crash site including this one.

Bomb 66: Enemy bomber shot down over Lifstan Way on 30th August 1940. Three of the crew of five were killed, two were detained. Seven unexploded H.E. bombs (6 250kg bombs and 1 50kg) were scattered around the crash site including this one.

Bomb 67: Enemy bomber shot down over Lifstan Way on 30th August 1940. Three of the crew of five were killed, two were detained. Seven unexploded H.E. bombs (6 250kg bombs and 1 50kg) were scattered around the crash site including this one.

Bomb 68: Enemy bomber shot down over Lifstan Way on 30th August 1940. Three of the crew of five were killed, two were detained. Seven unexploded H.E. bombs (6 250kg bombs and 1 50kg) were scattered around the crash site including this one.

Heinkel HE 111 crash landed at Lifstan Way on 30th August 1940 - of the crew of five, three were killed and two were captured.

Bomb 7: one of a series of four high explosive bombs dropped on a bombing run over Southend Foreshore. The bombs were dropped just after midnight (00:10am) on 10 August 1940; many properties were damaged and one woman lightly injured.

Bomb 8: one of a series of four high explosive bombs dropped on a bombing run over Southend Foreshore. The bombs were dropped just after midnight (00:10am) on 10 August 1940; many properties were damaged and one woman lightly injured.

Bomb 9: one of a series of four high explosive bombs dropped on a bombing run over Southend Foreshore. The bombs were dropped just after midnight (00:10am) on 10 August 1940; many properties were damaged and one woman lightly injured.

Bomb 10: one of a series of four high explosive bombs dropped on a bombing run over Southend Foreshore. The bombs were dropped just after midnight (00:10am) on 10 August 1940; many properties were damaged and one woman lightly injured.

Bomb 16: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landed in the vicinity of what was then known as 'Postman's Walk', where Leitrim Avenue meets Lodwick. Failed to detonate.

Bomb 17: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing on Shoeburyness Train Station. Signalman Charles Walter Speller was killed when the bomb scored a direct hit on his Signal Box.

Bomb 18: one of two high explosive bombs (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing on Shoeburyness Train Station. Signalman Charles Walter Speller was killed when a bomb scored a direct hit on his Signal Box.

Bomb 19: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing in Wakering Avenue.

Bomb 20: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing in Wakering Avenue.

Bomb 21: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing in Shoebury High Street. Along with another high explosive bomb (Bomb 22), this bomb caused 5 injuries, 2 men and 3 women.

August 18th, 1940 - as part of the Battle of Britain, in what has now been christened 'The Hardest Day', the German Luftwaffe enacted their plan to target RAF airfields in the South East of England. Shoeburyness was bombed as a result.

Bomb 60: Bomb dropped on Victoria Avenue at 12:59pm on the 28th August 1940. Ms Rossi was severely injured and died the next day at Southend General Hospital.

Bomb 23: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm. No casualties reported.

Bomb 24: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm. No casualties reported.

Bomb 25: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm. No casualties reported. This bomb was dropped just outside 26 Friar's Street, the house of Mr and Mrs. Speller.

Bomb 26: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing in open ground between Shoeburyness High Street and Wakering Avenue. No casualties reported.

Bomb 27: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing on an allotment east of Shoeburyness High Street. No casualties reported.

Bomb 28: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing on a brickfield east of Shoeburyness High Street. No casualties reported.

Bomb 29: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing on a brickfield east of Shoeburyness High Street. No casualties reported.

Bomb 30: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing on Blackgate Road. No casualties reported.

Bomb 31: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing in fields opposite Blackgate Road. No casualties reported.

Bomb 32: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing in field north of Blackgate Road. No casualties reported.

Bomb 33: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing in field north of Blackgate Road. No casualties reported.

Bomb 34: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing in field north of Blackgate Road. No casualties reported.

Bomb 35: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing in field north of Blackgate Road. No casualties reported.

Bomb 36: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing in field north of Blackgate Road. No casualties reported.

Bomb 37: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing in field north of Blackgate Road. No casualties reported.

Bomb 38: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing in field north of Blackgate Road. No casualties reported.

Bomb 39: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing in field north of Blackgate Road. No casualties reported.

Bomb 40: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing in field north of Blackgate Road. No casualties reported.

Bomb 41: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing to the rear side of Church Street. No casualties were reported.

Bomb 42: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing to the rear side of Shoebury Avenue. No casualties were reported.

Heinkel HE 111 crash landed at Lifstan Way on 30th August 1940 - of the crew of five, three were killed and two were captured.

Bomb 69: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing 250 yards west of the pier on Southend foreshore. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 70: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing west of the pier on Southend foreshore. Failed to detonate.

Bomb 71: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing west of the pier on Southend foreshore. Failed to detonate.

Bomb 72: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing close to the Western Esplanade. Failed to detonate.

Bomb 73: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing at Royal Terrace. Failed to detonate.

Bomb 90: One of five High Explosive bombs (50kg) dropped on 31st August 1940 at Wick Farm. No casualties reported.

Bomb 91: One of five High Explosive bombs (50kg) dropped on 31st August 1940 at Wick Farm. No casualties reported.

Bomb 92: One of five High Explosive bombs (50kg) dropped on 31st August 1940 at Wick Farm. No casualties reported.

Bomb 88: One of five High Explosive bombs (50kg) dropped on 31st August 1940 at Wick Farm. No casualties reported.

Bomb 89: One of five High Explosive bombs (50kg) dropped on 31st August 1940 at Wick Farm. No casualties reported.

Bomb 93: High Explosive bombs (50kg) dropped on 1st September 1940 just off of Eastern Avenue. No casualties reported.

Bomb 94: High Explosive bombs (50kg) dropped on 1st September 1940 just off of Eastern Avenue. No casualties reported.

Bomb 95: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing at Rochford Aerodrome on 2nd September 1940. Unexploded.

Bomb 44: Cluster of High Explosive bombs dropped into Shoeburyness Foreshore, approximately weighing 300 tons. All unexploded.

Bomb 96: High explosive bomb (50kg) landing at New Ranges, Shoeburyness. Unexploded.

Bomb 97: High explosive bomb (50kg) landing at New Ranges, Shoeburyness. Unexploded.

Bomb 22: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing in Shoebury High Street. Along with another high explosive bomb (Bomb 22), this bomb caused 5 injuries, 2 men and 3 women.

Bomb 43: Two 1kg incendiary bombs dropped on Ulster Avenue at 17:36pm.

Bomb 74: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Eastwoodbury Lane, 31 August 1940. Unexploded.

Bomb 75: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Eastwoodbury Lane, 31 August 1940. Unexploded.

Bomb 76: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Eastwoodbury Lane, 31 August 1940. Unexploded.

Bomb 78: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Eastwoodbury Lane, 31 August 1940. Unexploded.

Bomb 77: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Eastwoodbury Lane, 31 August 1940. Unexploded.

Bomb 79: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Eastwoodbury Lane, 31 August 1940. Unexploded.

Bomb 81: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Eastwoodbury Lane, 31 August 1940. Unexploded.

Bomb 80: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Eastwoodbury Lane, 31 August 1940. Unexploded.

Bomb 82: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Eastwoodbury Lane, 31 August 1940. Unexploded.

Bomb 84: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Eastwoodbury Lane, 31 August 1940. Unexploded.

Bomb 83: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Eastwoodbury Lane, 31 August 1940. Unexploded.

Bomb 85: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Eastwoodbury Lane, 31 August 1940. Unexploded.

Bomb 86: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Eastwoodbury Lane, 31 August 1940. Unexploded.

Bomb 99: High Explosive bombs (50kg) dropped on 6th September, 1940 on Stuart Road. One boy was injured.

Bomb 100: Anti aircraft shell landing in St. David's Drive, Leigh on 14th September 1940 targeting enemy planes. Unexploded.

Bomb 101: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Eastwood Rise, 15th September 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 102: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Eastwood Rise, 15th September 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 103: Oil bomb lands in Eastwood Rise, 15th September 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 105: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on Chalkwell foreshore on 15th September 1940. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 104: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on Chalkwell foreshore on 15th September 1940. Failed to detonate.

Bomb 106: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on Chalkwell foreshore on 15th September 1940. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 107: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on Chalkwell foreshore on 15th September 1940. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 116: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on south of Bell Wharf, Leigh foreshore on 18th September 1940. One woman was injured.

Bomb 117: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on south of Bell Wharf, Leigh foreshore on 18th September 1940. One woman was injured.

Bomb 115: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on south of Bell Wharf, Leigh foreshore on 18th September 1940. One woman was injured.

Bomb 121: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on south of Bell Wharf, Leigh foreshore on 18th September 1940.

Bomb 120: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on south of Bell Wharf, Leigh foreshore on 18th September 1940.

Bomb 119: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on south of Bell Wharf, Leigh foreshore on 18th September 1940.

Bomb 122: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on south of Bell Wharf, Leigh foreshore on 18th September 1940. Failed to detonate.

Bomb 123: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing at Southchurch Hall at 9.50am, on the 19th of September, 1940. Landed on the eastern side, by the moat. No damage was done to the Hall and no were casualties reported.

Bomb 124: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on Ilfracombe Avenue. No casualties reported.

Bomb 126: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing between Glenmore Street and Surbiton Road. No casualties reported.

Bomb 98: September 6th, 1940 - less than 100 incendiary bombs were dropped over Elm Farm in Shoeburyness. No casualties reported.

Bomb 127: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on Surbiton Road. No casualties reported.

Bomb 128: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on Stornoway Road. Three men and two women injured.

Bomb 130: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on Trinity Road. No casualties reported.

Bomb 131: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on Hamstel Road, opposite Hamstel Road Primary School. No casualties reported.

Bomb 132: one of two High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on open ground adjoining Hamstel Road Primary School. No casualties reported.

Bomb 133: one of two High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on open ground adjoining Hamstel Road Primary School. No casualties reported.

Bomb 134: Prittlewell Priory bombed on 25th of September 1940.

Bomb 135: September 25th, 1940. Oil Bomb dropped in Priory Park. No casualties reported.

Bomb 140: A.A. Shell landing off of North Shoebury Road on 28th September, 1940. Unexploded. No casualties reported.

Bomb 141: 29th of September, 1940. 6:50am. High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on Carnarvon Road, 10 yards from a communal bomb shelter. One man was injured.

Bomb 142: Bomb dropped on the corner of Carnvarvon and Tonbridge Road at 6.50am. Two men, part of the A.R.P, were casualties. One was killed, and the other suffered some minor wounds and a bad case of shock.

Bomb 145: 29th of September, 1940. 6:50am. High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on between Carnarvon Road and Great Eastern Avenue. No casualties reported.

Bomb 143: 29th of September, 1940. 6:50am. High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on footpath of Great Eastern Avenue. No casualties reported.

Bomb 144: 29th of September, 1940. 6:50am. High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on open ground adjoining Great Eastern Avenue. No casualties reported.

Bomb 146: 29th of September, 1940. 6:50am. High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on railtracks. No casualties reported but damage done to rail lines.

Bomb 147: 29th of September, 1940. 6:50am. High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on open ground adjacent to railway line. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 148: 29th of September, 1940. 6:50am. High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on open ground adjacent to railway line. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 149: Bomb dropped on the Starline Paint and Lacquer Factory. Severe damage was done to the factory, however no deaths or injuries were reported.

Bomb 150: 29th of September, 1940. 6:50am. High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on Stanfield Road. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 151: September 29th, 1940. Under 100 incendiary bombs dropped over the current site of the Beecroft Art Gallery on Victoria Avenue. No casualties reported.

Bomb 152: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on Wells Avenue around 7am on 29th September 1940. Failed to detonate.

Bomb 153: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in Eastwoodbury Lane, 4th October, 1940. Unexploded.

Bomb 154: H.E. bomb (50kg) landing on Shoeburyness Foreshore on 4th October, 1940. Unexploded. No casualties reported.

Bomb 155: H.E. bomb (50kg) landing on Shoeburyness Foreshore on 4th October, 1940. Unexploded. No casualties reported.

Bomb 156: A.A. shell landed at Belgrave Road, Eastwood on October 6th, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 157: H.E. bomb (50kg) landing on Rayleigh Road, at what was at that time the Borough boundary of the Southend Borough area, on October 7th, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 158: H.E. bomb landing at junction of Belgrave Road and Rayleigh Road on October 7th, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 159: H.E. bomb (50kg) landing in fields south of Rayleigh Road on October 7th, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 160: Oil bomb dropped in fields south of Rayleigh Road on 7th October, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 161: H.E. bomb (50kg) landing in fields just off of Bellhouse Road on October 7th, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 162: H.E. bomb (50kg) landing in fields east of Bellhouse Road near Hudson Road on October 7th, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 167: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in at "Holmleigh", Bellhouse Road on 7th October, 1940. Unexploded.

Bomb 163: H.E. bomb (50kg) landing in fields north side of Briarwood Drive on October 7th, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 164: H.E. bomb (50kg) landing in fields north side of Eastwood Lane, Highwood Close on October 7th, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 165: H.E. bomb (50kg) landing north of Blackgate Road on 7th October, 1940. Unexploded. No casualties reported.

Bomb 166: H.E. bomb (50kg) landing north of Blackgate Road on 7th October, 1940. Unexploded. No casualties reported.

Bomb 168: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing north of the end of the pier on the 9th of October, 1940. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 169: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing north of the end of the pier on the 9th of October, 1940. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 170: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing north of the end of the pier on the 9th of October, 1940. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 171: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing north of the end of the pier on the 9th of October, 1940. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 172: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing north of the end of the pier on the 9th of October, 1940. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 173: H.E. bomb (50kg) landing 60 yards west of Love Lane on 9th October, 1940. Unexploded. No casualties reported.

Bomb 174: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 9th October 1940 at 8:49am, north of Shoebury Road, near Samuel's Farm. No casualties reported.

Bomb 175: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 9th October 1940 at 8:49am, south of Shoebury Road, near Samuel's Farm. No casualties reported.

Bomb 176: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing at the rear of Rutland Avenue on the north side at 8:49am on 9th October, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 178: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing next to the railway bridge at 8:49am on 9th October, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 177: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing next on the edge of Lifstan Way at 8:49am on 9th October, 1940. Unexploded. No casualties reported.

Bomb 179: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in open space, east of Lifstan Way at 8:49am on 9th October, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 180: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in open space, east of Lifstan Way at 8:49am on 9th October, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 183: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in open space, east of Lifstan Way at 8:49am on 9th October, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 181: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in open space, east of Lifstan Way at 8:49am on 9th October, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 182: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in open space, east of Lifstan Way at 8:49am on 9th October, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 184: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in open space, east of Lifstan Way at 8:49am on 9th October, 1940. No casualties reported.

9th October, 1940 - Morning Dornier attack on Southend Pier

Bomb 185: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on foreshore south of Old Leigh on 10th October 1940 at 3:25pm. Damage was caused to a boat builder's premises.

Bomb 186: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on foreshore south of Old Leigh on 10th October 1940 at 3:25pm. Damage was caused to a boat builder's premises.

Bomb 187: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on foreshore south of Old Leigh on 10th October 1940 at 3:25pm. Damage was caused to a boat builder's premises.

Bomb 188: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on foreshore south of Old Leigh on 10th October 1940 at 3:25pm. Damage was caused to a boat builder's premises.

Bomb 189: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on foreshore south of Old Leigh on 10th October 1940 at 3:25pm. Damage was caused to a boat builder's premises.

Bomb 190: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on Imperial Tennis Courts on 10th October 1940 at 3.25pm. No casualties, damage caused to tennis courts. Site today is that of Halford's.

Bomb 191: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on Imperial Tennis Courts on 10th October 1940 at 3:25pm. No casualties, damage caused to tennis courts. Site today is that of Halford's.

Bomb 191: Heavy explosive bomb (250kg) landing on Chadwick Road on 10th October 1940 at 3:25pm. No casualties, large amounts of damage to houses.

Bomb 191: Heavy explosive bomb (250kg) landing on Finchley Road on 10th October 1940 at 3:25pm. No casualties, large amounts of damage to houses.

Bomb 194: High Explosive bomb (250kg) landing in Leigh Marshes on 10th October 1940 at 3:25pm. No reported casualties or damage.

Bomb 195: High Explosive bomb (250kg) landing in Leigh Marshes on 10th October 1940 at 3:25pm. No reported casualties or damage.

Bomb 196: High Explosive bomb (250kg) landing in Leigh Marshes on 10th October 1940 at 3:25pm. No reported casualties or damage.

Bomb 197: High Explosive bomb (250kg) landing in Leigh Marshes on 10th October 1940 at 3:25pm. No reported casualties or damage.

Bomb 198: High Explosive bomb (250kg) landing in Leigh Marshes on 10th October 1940 at 3:25pm. No reported casualties or damage.

Bomb 199: High Explosive bomb (250kg) landing in Leigh Marshes on 10th October 1940 at 3:25pm. No reported casualties or damage.

Bomb 200: High Explosive bomb (250kg) landing in Leigh Marshes on 10th October 1940 at 3:25pm. No reported casualties or damage.

Bomb 201: High Explosive bomb (250kg) landing in Leigh Marshes on 10th October 1940 at 3:25pm. No reported casualties or damage.

Bomb 202: High Explosive bomb (250kg) landing in Leigh Marshes on 10th October 1940 at 3:25pm. No reported casualties or damage.

Bomb 203: High Explosive bomb (250kg) landing in Leigh Marshes on 10th October 1940 at 3:25pm. No reported casualties or damage.

Bomb 204: 14th of October, 1940. 12:26pm. High Explosive bomb (250kg) landing in gardens of houses on Southchurch Avenue/Old Southend Road. Large property damage and one woman injured.

Bomb 205: High explosive bomb (250kg) exploded in the gardens of 5, The Grove on 14th October, 1940 at 12:26pm. 24 people were injured, and two were killed - Mr and Mrs Gillingham.

Bomb 206: High Explosive bomb (250kg) landing on Chalkwell foreshore on 15th October 1940. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 207: High Explosive bomb (250kg) landing on Chalkwell foreshore on 15th October 1940. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 208: Not a bomb but instead, fragments of an anti-aircraft shell fired by Shoebury coastal defences. On corner of Ness Road and Church Road. One man, Frederick Harry Tibbles, was killed.

Bomb 209: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 19th October, one of nine bombs dropped on Fox Hall Farm. Farmhouse still exists on the sight of Garon's Golf Complex. No casualties reported.

Bomb 210: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 19th October, one of nine bombs dropped on Fox Hall Farm. Farmhouse still exists on the sight of Garon's Golf Complex. No casualties reported.

Bomb 211: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 19th October, one of nine bombs dropped on Fox Hall Farm. Farmhouse still exists on the sight of Garon's Golf Complex. No casualties reported.

Bomb 212: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 19th October, one of nine bombs dropped on Fox Hall Farm. Farmhouse still exists on the sight of Garon's Golf Complex. No casualties reported.

Bomb 213: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 19th October, one of nine bombs dropped on Fox Hall Farm. Farmhouse still exists on the sight of Garon's Golf Complex. No casualties reported.

Bomb 214: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 19th October, one of nine bombs dropped on Fox Hall Farm. Farmhouse still exists on the sight of Garon's Golf Complex. No casualties reported.

Bomb 215: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 19th October, one of nine bombs dropped on Fox Hall Farm. Farmhouse still exists on the sight of Garon's Golf Complex. No casualties reported.

Bomb 216: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 19th October, one of nine bombs dropped on Fox Hall Farm. Farmhouse still exists on the sight of Garon's Golf Complex. No casualties reported.

Bomb 217: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 19th October, one of nine bombs dropped on Fox Hall Farm. Farmhouse still exists on the sight of Garon's Golf Complex. No casualties reported.

Bomb 218: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landed at 77, Wimborne Road on 19th October 1940 at 2:10pm. Unexploded. No reported casualties.

Bomb 220: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landed at 71, Wimborne Road on 19th October 1940 at 2:10pm. Unexploded. No reported casualties.

Bomb 219: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landed at 2, Branksome Road on 19th October 1940 at 2:10pm. Unexploded. No reported casualties.

Bomb 221: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landed at 85, Christchurch Road on 19th October 1940 at 2:10pm. Unexploded. No reported casualties.

Bomb 222: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landed at 312, Branksome Road on 19th October 1940 at 2:10pm. Unexploded. No reported casualties.

Bomb 223: Oil bomb and several small incendiary bombs dropped at 15, Trinity Road at 2:10pm on 19th October 1940. Five adults were injured, 2 men and 3 women.

Bomb 224: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing at 20 Westbury Road at 2:10pm. Unexploded. No casualties reported.

Bomb 225: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing at 43 Lonsdale Road at 2:10pm. Unexploded. No casualties reported.

Bomb 226: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing at 333 Central Avenue at 2:10pm. Unexploded. No casualties reported.

Bomb 227: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing at 210 South Avenue at 2:10pm. Unexploded. No casualties reported.

Bomb 228: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing at 303 South Avenue at 2:10pm. Unexploded. No casualties reported.

Bomb 229: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on foreshore opposite Chelsea Avenue on 22nd October 1940.

Bomb 230: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on foreshore opposite Chelsea Avenue on 22nd October 1940.

Bomb 231: Incendiary bombs dropped on 22nd October, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 232: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 23rd October 1940, in fields north of Shoebury Road. No casualties reported.

Bomb 233: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 23rd October 1940, in fields north of Shoebury Road. No casualties reported.

Bomb 234: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 23rd October 1940, in fields north of Shoebury Road. No casualties reported.

Bomb 235: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 23rd October 1940, in fields north of Shoebury Road. No casualties reported.

Bomb 236: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 23rd October 1940, in fields north of Shoebury Road. No casualties reported.

Bomb 237: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 23rd October 1940, in fields north of Shoebury Road. No casualties reported.

Bomb 238: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 23rd October 1940, in fields north of Shoebury Road. No casualties reported.

Bomb 239: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 23rd October 1940, in fields north of Shoebury Road. No casualties reported.

Bomb 240: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 23rd October 1940, in fields north of Shoebury Road. No casualties reported.

Bomb 241: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 23rd October 1940, in fields north of Shoebury Road. No casualties reported.

Bomb 244: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on Victoria Avenue at 19:46pm, 29th October, 1940 by a church hall. Extensive damage done to church hall, however no casualties reported.

Bomb 243: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing at the rear of cottages on the west side of Victoria Avenue at 19:46pm, 29th October, 1940. 4 men and 2 women injured.

Bomb 242: Two incendiary bombs dropped on 29nd October, 1940 at 7:20pm. No casualties reported.

Bomb 245: 29th of October, 1940. 7:46pm. High Explosive bomb (50kg) adjacent to Grainger Road. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 246: 29th of October, 1940. 7:46pm. High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on concrete approach to Grainger Road. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 247: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing just off of Southchurch Boulevard at 7:46pm on 29th October 1940. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 248: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing just off of Southchurch Boulevard in a field at 7:46pm on 29th October 1940. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 251: H.E. bomb (50kg) landing off of Tudor Road, Eastwood at 7:46pm on 29th October, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 252: H.E. bomb (50kg) landing off of Tudor Road, Eastwood at 7:46pm on 29th October, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 253: H.E. bomb (50kg) landing off of Tudor Road, Eastwood at 7:46pm on 29th October, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 254: H.E. bomb (50kg) landing off of Tudor Road, Eastwood at 7:46pm on 29th October, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 255: H.E. bomb (50kg) landing off of Tudor Road, Eastwood at 7:46pm on 29th October, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 256: H.E. bomb (50kg) landing off of Tudor Road, Eastwood at 7:46pm on 29th October, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 257: H.E. bomb (50kg) landing off of Tudor Road, Eastwood at 7:46pm on 29th October, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 258: H.E. bomb (50kg) landing off of Tudor Road, Eastwood at 7:46pm on 29th October, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 259: Incendiary bombs dropped near Tudor Road on 29th October, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 260: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 30th October 1940 at 1:16am, in fields next to Star Lane. No casualties reported.

Bomb 261: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 30th October 1940 at 1:16am, in fields next to Star Lane. No casualties reported.

Bomb 262: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 30th October 1940 at 1:16am, in fields next to Star Lane. No casualties reported.

Bomb 263: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 30th October 1940 at 1:16am, in fields next to Star Lane. No casualties reported.

Bomb 264: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 30th October 1940 at 1:16am, in fields next to Star Lane. No casualties reported.

Bomb 265: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 30th October 1940 at 1:16am, in fields next to Star Lane. No casualties reported.

Bomb 266: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 30th October 1940 at 1:16am, at pumping station next to Star Lane. Unexploded. No casualties reported.

Bomb 267: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in field north of the junction of Prince Avenue and Southbourne Grove at 6:38pm, 1st November 1940. No damage or injuries reported.

Bomb 268: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in the garden of a bungalow in South Crescent at 6:38pm, 1st November 1940. No damage or injuries reported.

Bomb 269: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landed on centre of road between Rochford Road and Oakengrange Drive, 6:38pm on November 1st, 1940. Bomb narrowly avoids hitting bus. No casualties or injuries.

Bomb 270: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on open ground adjoining Thornford Gardens at 6:38pm, 1st November 1940. No damage or injuries reported.

Bomb 271: Oil bomb landing on open ground adjoining Thornford Gardens at 6:38pm, 1st November 1940. No damage or injuries reported.

Bomb 272: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing west of the Pier, 6:38pm on 1st November, 1940. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 273: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing west of the Pier, 6:38pm on 1st November, 1940. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 276: High explosive bomb (250kg) exploded on Cumberland Avenue on the 5th November, 1940 at 4:20am. Two were killed and one was injured. Lilian Marshall and her 6 month old son Donald were killed. Lilian's husband George survived.

Bomb 275: High explosive bomb (250kg) exploded on Cumberland Avenue on the 5th November, 1940 at 4:20am. Two were killed and one was injured. Lilian Marshall and her 6 month old son Donald were killed. Lilian's husband George survived.

Bomb 274: High Explosive bomb (250kg) dropped on 5th November, 1940 at 4:20am in fields north of Cumberland Avenue. No casualties reported or injuries reported.

Bomb 277: A.A. Shell landing on North Shoebury Road on 5th November, 1940. Unexploded. No casualties reported.

Bomb 278: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 16th November 1940 at 8:30pm landing on open ground next to St.Augustine's Avenue (at what is now St.James' Avenue). No casualties reported.

Bomb 279: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 16th November 1940 at 8:30pm landing on Thorpe Bay Esplanade carriageway. Some beach huts were damaged.

Bomb 280: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 16th November 1940 at 8:30pm landing on foreshore opposite Thorpe Hall Avenue. No casualties reported.

Bomb 281: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 16th November 1940 at 8:30pm landing on Elizabeth Avenue, targeting Southend Gasworks. No casualties reported.

Bomb 282: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 16th November 1940 at 8:30pm landing on Chelsea Avenue, targeting Southend Gasworks. No casualties reported.

Bomb 283: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 16th November 1940 at 8:30pm landing on Southend Gasworks. No casualties reported.

Bomb 285: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 16th November 1940 at 8:30pm landing on houses adjoining Southend Gasworks. No casualties reported.

Bomb 284: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 16th November 1940 at 8:30pm landing on Southend Gasworks. No casualties reported.

Bomb 287: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 16th November 1940 at 8:30pm landing on the foreshore, opposite Southchurch Avenue. No casualties reported.

Bomb 288: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 16th November 1940 at 8:30pm landing on the foreshore, 46 yards east of the Pier Pavilion. No casualties reported.

Bomb 289: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 16th November 1940 at 8:30pm landing on the foreshore, west of the Pier in the Sunken Gardens. No casualties reported.

Bomb 290: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 16th November 1940 at 8:30pm landing on Wilson Road, in the Clifftown area. No casualties reported.

Bomb 286: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 16th November 1940 at 8:30pm landing on what was then known as Darlow's Green - now the site of the Sealife Centre car park. No casualties reported.

Bomb 291: High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 16th November 1940 at 8:30pm landing on the railway track, what is now the c2c line, half a mile west of Southend Station. No casualties reported.

Bomb 292: High Explosive bomb (250kg) dropped on 21st November 1940 at 11:48am, landing in Ulster Avenue. No casualties reported.

Bomb 293: High Explosive bomb (250kg) dropped on 21st November 1940 at 11:48am, landing in Ulster Avenue. No casualties reported.

Bomb 294: High Explosive bomb (250kg) dropped on 21st November 1940 at 11:48am, landing just off of Campfield Road. No casualties reported.

Bomb 295: High Explosive bomb (250kg) dropped on 21st November 1940 at 11:48am, landing just off of Campfield Road. No casualties reported.

Bomb 296: High Explosive bomb (250kg) dropped on 21st November 1940 at 11:48am, landing just off of Campfield Road. No casualties reported.

Bomb 297: High Explosive bomb (250kg) dropped on 21st November 1940 at 11:48am, landing just off of Campfield Road. Failed to detonate.

November 21st, 1940 - after almost a week of limited plane activity, German planes once again attacked London. Turning back, a German bomber unloaded 5 high calibre high explosive bombs and unleashed machine gun fire on the town below.

Bomb 298: High Explosive bomb (250kg) landing on Whitehouse Lane, Eastwood, on 28th November, 1940. Failed to detonate.

Bomb 299: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in fields off of Snakes Lane, 28th November 1940. No damage or injuries reported.

Bomb 300: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in fields off of Snakes Lane, 28th November 1940. No damage or injuries reported.

Bomb 301: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in fields off of Snakes Lane, 28th November 1940. No damage or injuries reported.

Bomb 302: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in fields off of Snakes Lane, 28th November 1940. No damage or injuries reported.

Bomb 303: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in fields off of Snakes Lane, 28th November 1940. No damage or injuries reported.

Bomb 304: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in fields off of Snakes Lane, 28th November 1940. No damage or injuries reported.

Bomb 305: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in fields off of Snakes Lane, 28th November 1940. No damage or injuries reported.

Bomb 306: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in fields off of Snakes Lane, 28th November 1940. No damage or injuries reported.

Bomb 307: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in fields off of Snakes Lane, 28th November 1940. No damage or injuries reported.

Bomb 308: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing in fields off of Snakes Lane, 28th November 1940. Failed to detonate.

Bomb 309: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on Leigh Marshes on 28th November 1940. No reported casualties or damage.

Bomb 310: Incendiary bombs dropped on 28th, November 1940 by way of what was known as a "Molotov Bread-basket". Russian in design, Germany used them - locals nicknamed them "Goering's bread basket", after chief of the Luftwaffe Hermann Goering.

Bomb 311: Less than 100 incendiary bombs dropped over Springwater Drive, Eastwood, on the 29th November, 1940. No injuries or casualties reported.

Bomb 312: High Explosive bomb (250kg) landing in the foreshore, south of Palmeira Parade, on 5th December 1940. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 313: High Explosive bomb (250kg) landing in the foreshore, south of Palmeira Parade, on 5th December 1940. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 314: High Explosive bomb (250kg) landing in the foreshore, south of Palmeira Parade, on 5th December 1940. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 315: High Explosive bomb (250kg) landing in the foreshore, south of Palmeira Parade, on 5th December 1940. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 316: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on Leigh foreshore on the 9th December 1940. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 317: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on Leigh foreshore on the 9th December 1940. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 318: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on Leigh foreshore on the 9th December 1940. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 319: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on Leigh foreshore on the 9th December 1940. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 320: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on Leigh foreshore on the 9th December 1940. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 321: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on Leigh foreshore on the 9th December 1940. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 322: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on Leigh foreshore on the 9th December 1940. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 323: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on Leigh foreshore on the 9th December 1940. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 324: Less than 100 incendiary bombs dropped onto Leigh Marshes on 9th December, 1940. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 325: A.A. Shell lands just off Snakes Lane on 10th December, 1940. Unexploded.

Bomb 325(a): A Sprengebombe Dickwandig 2kg (or S.D.2), otherwise known as a "Butterfly Bomb", was dropped on 10th of December 1940 in what was possibly the first of its kind in the Southend area. This one did not detonate.

Bomb 326: Heavy explosive bomb (50kg) lands at Lansdowne Avenue, Leigh at 9:15pm on 11th December, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 327: Heavy explosive bomb (50kg) lands at Rockleigh Avenue at 9:15pm on 11th December, 1940. Damage to gas main and sewers. No casualties reported.

Bomb 328: Heavy explosive bomb (50kg) lands at Old Leigh Road at 9:15pm on 11th December, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 329: Heavy explosive bomb (50kg) lands near a bridge in Chalkwell Park at 9:15pm on 11th December, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 331: Heavy explosive bomb (50kg) lands on Cliff Road at 9:15pm on 11th December, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 332: Heavy explosive bomb (50kg) landing on the east side of Chalkwell Avenue, adjoining Seymour Road on the 11th December 1940 at 9:15pm. No casualties reported.

11th December to 13th of December: Three consecutive air raids are sounded over Westcliff/Leigh area. Over 20 bombs are dropped - 11 are injured, none are killed.

Bomb 333: Heavy explosive bomb (50kg) lands on Mount Avenue at 9:15pm on 11th December, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 334: Heavy explosive bomb (50kg) lands on Hillway, Westcliff at 9:15pm on 11th December, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 330: Heavy explosive bomb (50kg) lands on King's Road at 9:15pm on 11th December, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 335: High Explosive bomb (50kg) landing on Chalkwell Esplanade on 11th December 1940. No damage or casualties reported.

Bomb 336: Bomb dropped on the meeting of London Road and Claremont Road at 9:15pm on the 11th December 1940. No casualties were reported.

Bomb 337: a 500kg high explosive bomb was dropped on St.John's Road at 9:15pm on the 11th December 1940. As many as 11 were injured (4 men and 7 women). Miraculously, no-one was killed.

Bomb 338: a 500kg high explosive bomb was dropped on Cossington Road at 9:15pm on the 11th December 1940. No casualties were reported.

Bomb 339: Heavy explosive bomb (50kg) lands on Southsea Avenue, Leigh at 02:20am on 13th December, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 340: Heavy explosive bomb (50kg) lands on Lymington Avenue, Leigh at 02:20am on 13th December, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 341: Heavy explosive bomb (50kg) lands on Lymington Avenue, Leigh at 02:20am on 13th December, 1940. No casualties reported.

Bomb 342: Heavy explosive bomb (50kg) lands on Station Road, Leigh at 02:20am on 13th December, 1940. No casualties reported.

Multiple bombs were dropped in Priory Park on the 25th of September, 1940 - this included five high explosive bombs (one failed to detonate) and an oil bomb.Oil bombs were generally much larger (250kg or more) than the more commonly used high explosive bombs (these were largely 50kg in weight) but were far less reliable in their damage output.Oil bombs were incendiary ordnance and were used on targets susceptible to fire damage - the open grass of priory park had been repurposed as farming for food production during the war and as such was a desirable target for an oil bomb.

Bomb 134: Priory Park Bombed

Bomb 138: Priory Park Bombed

On the 10th of October, a group of five enemy planes made their way towards London along the Thames Estuary. One plane seemingly detached from the others to deliver a number of bombs inland. Five High Explosive bombs (50kg) landed on Old Leigh Foreshore - a shed where boats were being built was damaged and the two men within this shed barely escaped injury.Two 50kg H.E. bombs were dropped on clay tennis courts, on the site of what is now Halfords, as well as two heavy impact 250kg H.E. bombs, one landing on Chadwick Road and one on Finchley Road. The bomb at Finchley Road scored a direct hit on a corner house, which had only been vacated one week prior. Houses were also demolished on Chadwick Road - one lady, Mrs. A.H. Garnett, was treated for shock but did not even require to go to hospital.

Bombing Raid over Leigh and Westcliff - 10th October 1940

Damage at tennis courts just off of London Road

Demolished houses on Chadwick and Finchley Road

Bomb 125: Bomb narrowly misses the Plaza Cinema

On the 19th of September, 1940 at 9:50am during a bombing run over Southchurch, a 50kg high explosive bomb narrowly missed the Plaza Cinema in Southchurch.The bomb landed in the road between what is now the Exchange pub and the Christian Fellowship Youth Church, at the junction of Lovelace Gardens and Southchurch Road. The Exchange was formerly a shop, and the proximity of the bomb's landing site caused the windows to shatter. No casualties were reported.

Damage caused by a bomb that fell on what isnow The Exchange. Photo courtesy of Southend Museums.

Bomb 139: Priory Park Bombed

H.E. bomb falls in Priory's old world garden

Article on the bombing of Priory Park

On the 9th of October, 1940, a group of German planes attacked Southend. Five bombs had been dropped not far from the head of the Pier in the early hours of the morning , as well as a bomb being dropped and failing to explode at Shoebury Garrison (near Blackgate Road).The planes returned later to make another attack on Southend at just before 9am. A Dornier flew at low altitude (it was stated to be at twice the height of one of the nearby seafront hotels), and opened fire on Southend Pier, unleasing a barrage of machine gun fire from it's onboard twin guns. No-one was injured, and the Dornier afterwards headed inland where it dropped 11 bombs in total.Interestingly, many of these were dropped just off of Lifstan Way, very close to the site of a Heinkel 111 that crashed in late August. Many people on their way to work reported the plane activity, surprised at its low altitude - one bomb fell at the back of Rutland Avenue, one bomb fell in Lifstan Way itself, just east of the railway bridge, and 6 of these bombs fell in the area that now houses the estate that makes up Butterys in Southchurch. None were killed and only a few had to be treated for shock.

9th October, 1940: Morning Dornier attack on Southend Pier

Article of the Dornier attack from 'The Southend Standard'

Windows damaged in the bombing run on 9th Oct, 1940.

A High Explosive bomb (50kg) landed in the garden of a bungalow in South Crescent at 6:38pm, 1st November 1940. No damage or injuries were reported. The bungalows only suffered shattered windows.

Bomb 268 - Bomb lands in Bungalow Garden

On the night of December 11th, 1940, at 9:15pm, Southend saw 500kg high explosive bombs used for the first time. A 500kg bomb was dropped at the meeting of London Road and Claremont Road as well as on St.John's Road, demolishing one house, damaging two shops, two schools and approximately 200 properties. The bomb that dropped on St.John's Road injured 11. In the images, you can see some of the damage done to St.John's Road. Notice the more modern buildings that have replaced those damaged.Miraculously, no-one was killed - however many buildings were not able to survive their damage.

Bomb 337: 500kg bomb dropped on St.John's Road

In the early hours of the 10th August 1940, at 00:10am in the morning, four high explosive bombs (50kg) were dropped on the foreshore opposite Eastern Esplanade.Many of the door frames and windows on Eastern Esplanade were blown out, but other than one lady who suffered a cut to her forehead and a few shaken up pet Canaries, no issues were reported.Many of the houses on Eastern Esplanade had been intentionally vacated previously and thus threat to human life was always slim. The roofs of many houses were rebuilt after this bombing run as many did not survive.

Bombs 7 - 10: Early Morning Bombing at the Foreshore

Shops damaged by bombs on Eastern Esplanade

Over the course of 3 days, from the 11th of December to the 13th of December, German aircraft carried out extensive bombing raids over the Westcliff and Leigh area. All told, roughly 25-30 bombs were dropped, including three of the biggest bombs Southend had seen to that point.The Southend Standard dubbed the raids over the Southend area 'The Towns Noisest Night' owing to the constant hum of planes overhead and dropped bombs. Despite the consistent bombing over 3 days, only 11 people were injured, all hailing from St.John's Road in Westcliff - who were injured by a 500k.g. High Explosive bomb - however there were many close calls. Two 500 k.g. H.E. bombs caused damage to over 200 properties, as well as schools and two shops connected to London Road.

Three Bombing Raids over Leigh and Westcliff - 11th to 13th December 1940

Demolished shop off of London Road - possibly Claremont Road.

School damaged in the raid

St.John's Road - soldiers and emergency services help with rescue.

Bomb 103: Oil Bomb lands at Eastwood Rise

Alongside two 50kg high explosive bombs, an oil bomb was dropped on Eastwood Rise, Leigh. These oil bombs contained an oil incendiary mixture that was intended to break out of the bomb shell on impact and ignite via TNT charge (see image). These bombs were found to spread oil effectively upon the bomb breaking on the ground, but struggled to ignite said oil mixture. This lead to these bombs being used far less frequently from 1940 onwards.

Internal view of a 500kg German oil bomb, credit for image: Bombs Away UXO

News report of the oil bomb on Eastwood Rise

An example of a 500kg German oil bomb, credit for image: Bombs Away UXO

As part of the Battle of Britain, in what has now been christened 'The Hardest Day', the German Luftwaffe enacted their plan to target RAF airfields in the South East of England. August 18th saw the most number of aircraft on both sides lost in a single day.In targeting North Weald and Hornchurch airfields, two of the planes responsible for bombing Shoeburyness were shot down above the Thames Estuary - a Heinkel HE III and a Messerschmitt. The Heinkel force landed at Small Gains Farm on Foulness Island - the entire crew bar one, Fw. J. Wild - who had bailed out early and died the next day from his injuries, were captured and taken to London via Shoeburyness Station. The Messerschmitt crashed on the nearby Isle of Sheppey at Leysdown - Uffz. T. Rutters was badly burned but captured whilst the pilot, 19 year old Uffz. H. Jaeckel, was killed.

Britain's 'Hardest Day' - 18th August 1940

One of the captured German airmen waiting for internment to London at Shoebury Station

Another captured German airman escorted to London on the 18th August, 1940.

Bomb 3: Bombs dropped on Southend High School for Boys

Five H.E. (high explosive) bombs were dropped on Tuesday the 18th of June 1940 shortly before midnight at 11:22pm. Three fell over Hobleythick Lane and two hit the school. This injured 13 (6 men, 6 women, one boy) and killed a man - a chaffeur - Mr.Jolley.The school had only recently had additions made to it two years prior, in 1937. Luckily, no-one was inside the school at the time of the air raid. This bomb hit the central part of the school, damaging the school hall.

The school hall.

Two bombs gets a direct hit on SHSB.

One of the bombsfell on the school'snorthern wing.

Great Britain and her territories had been at war with Germany since then Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain's public declaration of war on September the 3rd, 1939. Much of Southend had been quickly adjusted to its new reality, with the coastal defences readied in quick time and the nearby Pier transforming into an important wartime base in the form of HMS Leigh Just 4 months on from Chamberlain's formal declaration of war, much had changed for the citizens of Southend - families bid best wishes as fathers, brothers and sons were mobilised, letters and gifts regularly sent from front to home and cutbacks and concessions at home were gladly suffered to muck in for the common cause. Christmas of 1940 was full of hope and optimism that belied a country at war, and citizens of Southend revelled in a characteristic January cold snap that brought ice and snow to the shores of the Thames Estuary. Families went ice skating at nearby parks and kids enjoyed a slide down Pier Hill - spirits were high. 4 months more would bring Southend's first air raid and an abrupt new reality - the war had reached home.

Merrymaking in the face of War - January 1940

Families skate on two-inch thick ice at Southchurch Park, 3rd Jan 1940

Two children slide down Pier Hill on 1st Jan 1940

Bomb 17: Shoeburyness Train Station

Signal Box that Mr.Speller was postedat on the 18th August 1940. The bomb was said to have ricocheted off the bridge, landing directly inside the Signal Box.

Charles Walter Speller, born in Shoebury in 1885.

In the raids over the Thames Estuary between 17:40-18.00, there were 54 bomber raids on Shoeburyness, with 4 houses destroyed, as well as a water-mains , signal box and seven rail tracks also destroyed after approximately 180 bombs of various types were dropped. 3 civilians were killed: Mr. and Mrs Heard on West Road and Charles Walter Speller, who worked as a signalman at Shoeburyness Station.According to the Southend Standard, the bomb ricocheted off of the bridge above and landed directly inside Mr.Speller's signal box (pictured above). His house on Friar's Street was also bombed, however his wife survived the ordeal unharmed. Mr.Speller was 55 years old at the time of his death, having worked on the railways for 36 years..

Southend Standard article on the bombing of Shoebury Station

Bomb 2: Bombs dropped on Southend High School for Boys

The school hall.

Two bombs gets a direct hit on SHSB.

One of the bombsfell on the school'snorthern wing.

At 6:50am in the morning, on Sunday the 29th of September, a lone German plane dropped a line of various bombs beginning at Carnarvon Road, and ending at Great Eastern Avenue. James Henry Colman, aged 47, was part of the A.R.P (Air Raid Precautions) team for his area - the A.R.P. would ensure residents adhered to blackout rules and would clear debris and hand out gasmasks to neighbourhoods. Mr.Colman was an employee of the council's Highway Department team with his best friend and neighbour, who both lived on South Avenue, Percy Gridley. Percy was driving that morning and James hopped out to the back of the vehicle to ready the water cleansing equipment.No sooner had Mr.Colman reached the back of the vehicle, that a bomb landed a few feet from him. He was killed instantly. Alongside family and ex-colleagues, Percy attended his funeral.

Bomb 142: Carnarvon Road

Excerpt detailing the bombing of Carnarvon Road and the death of Mr.Colman from The Southend Standard.

Article on the bomb that killed Mr.Colman from The Southend Standard.

Mr.Colman's obituary from The Southend Standand.

Bomb 275: Cumberland Avenue

Notice for the funeral held for Lilian and Donald Marshall.

Article on the bombing of Cumberland Avenue from The Southend Standard

In the early hours of the morning (4:20am), on the 5th of November 1940, three heavy calibre high explosive bombs (each weighing 250kg) were dropped over Southend.One landed harmlessly in a field, west of Cumberland Avenue. Two bombs, however, struck the north side of Cumberland Avenue. Much damage was done to the surrounding houses, however one house in particular fared worse than others.The Marshall family, of 83a Cumberland Avenue, lived in the top flat, whilst the Stevens family lived in the flat below, at 83. Upon detonation, the bomb completely flattened the rear of the house where the Marshall's bedroom was located. George Marshall sustained head injuries, but was able to free himself and called to George Stevens downstairs to aid him in searching for his wife and baby son. Such was the damage to the rear of the building that Mr.Stevens was forced to exit through the front window of the bottom flat in order to climb over the destroyed building to the back of the property. Tragically, George Marshall's wife, Lilian and their young son Donald were both killed. Lilian was 40 years old, and young Donald only 6 months old. Mrs.Gibson, at 82 Cumberland Avenue, also sustained injuries but survived relatively unscathed.

At 6:50am in the morning, on Sunday the 29th of September, a lone German plane dropped a line of various bombs beginning at Carnarvon Road, and ending at Great Eastern Avenue. Two bombs were reported (though only one bomb is registered to have hit in the enemy ordnance index) to have dropped directly on the Starline factory, situated on Grainger Road. Starline Varnish and Enamel Co. Ltd produced paint products. Mr.Jameson, who worked next door to the factory and was sleeping in his office, was sent flying out of his bed by a bomb that landed a few yards from him. Miraculously he was unharmed.

Bomb 149: Starline Factory, Grainger Road

Excerpt detailing the bomb that landed on Starline factory from The Southend Standard.

Damaged caused to the Starline Factory

Shade card for Starline Chinese Lacquer.

Heinkel HE 111 Bomber Crash on Lifstan Way

On the 30th August 1940, a Heinkel HE 111 manned by a crew of five was shot down and crashed on Lifstan Way - Junior Officer Adolf Saam (flight engineer), Sergeant Ernst Erhard Von Kuenheim (radio officer) and Senior Lance Corporal Otto Fischer (rear gunner) were all killed in action. Junior Officer Helmut Gall (pilot) escaped the plane via parachute and landed on Thorpe Hall Golf Course and Leuitenant Wolf Roesler (observer) landed on Southend foreshore, just east of the Pier.The crash site was littered with 7 unexploded bombs, 1 50kg H.E. bomb and 6 significantly more dangerous 250kg bombs. A chilling thought if they had been used.

Site of the crash - the plane crashed at the current site of the children's play area

Heinkel HE 111 on Lifstan Way

Image of wreckage

On the night of December 11th, 1940, at 9:15pm, Southend saw 500kg high explosive bombs used for the first time. A 500kg bomb was dropped at the meeting of London Road and Claremont Road as well as on St.John's Road, demolishing one house, damaging two shops, two schools and approximately 200 properties. The bomb that dropped on St.John's Road injured 11. Miraculously, no-one was killed - however many buildings were not able to survive their damage.

Bomb 337: 500kg bomb dropped on St.John's Road

Damage caused as a result of 500kg high explosive bomb on St.John's Road. Local soldiers and auxiliary firemen aided in rescue efforts. Photo courtesy of Southend Museums.

Account from a resident involved in bombing of St.Jonh's Road.

Account from a resident involved in bombing of St.John's Road.Harry Kirsch and his son lived at 74 St.John's Road.

Bomb 137: Priory Park Bombed

Bombs 7 - 10: Early Morning Bombing at the Foreshore

Shops damaged by bombs on Eastern Esplanade

Bomb dropped on Victoria Avenue at 12:59pm on the 28th August 1940. Part of the same flight that bombed Manners Way - it is likely this bomb was targeting Southend Victoria Station. This injured one woman, Ms. Doris Theresa Rossi, aged 38. She lived at 28 Harcourt Avenue.The daughter of Julius Napoleon Rossi and Catherine Rossi, Doris unfortunately succumbed to her injuries and later died at Southend General Hospital a day later on the 29th of August.

Bomb 60: Victoria Avenue

Ms. Rossi was killed when a 50kg high explosive bomb landed on Victoria Avenue, roughly opposite the current Beecroft Art Gallery

Bomb 18: Shoeburyness Train Station

Signal Box that Mr.Speller was postedat on the 18th August 1940. The bomb was said to have ricocheted off the bridge, landing directly inside the Signal Box.

Charles Walter Speller, born in Shoebury in 1885.

In the raids over the Thames Estuary between 17:40-18.00, there were 54 bomber raids on Shoeburyness, with 4 houses destroyed, as well as a water-mains , signal box and seven rail tracks also destroyed after approximately 180 bombs of various types were dropped. 3 civilians were killed: Mr. and Mrs Heard on West Road and Charles Walter Speller, who worked as a signalman at Shoeburyness Station.Mr. Speller had worked at Shoeburyness Train Station for 20 years and lived nearby at 26 Friars Street, having previously been born in Shoeburyness in 1885, living on Shoebury High Street. He lived with his wife, Amy Ellen Speller (nee Scraggs), who attended his funeral at 3.15pm at Sutton Road Cemetery on Thursday, 23rd August 1940.

Southend Standard article on the bombing of Shoebury Station

Bombs 14 and 15: West Road

A countrywide series of bombing raids took place on the 18th August 1940 - dubbed 'The Hardest Day' during the Battle of Britain.

Damage caused by the H.E bomb that fell at 45 West Rd

Obituary of Mr and Mrs.Heard from Southend Standard, 22/08/1940

A report on the bombing of West Road in the Southend Standard

Over the course of 3 days, from the 11th of December to the 13th of December, German aircraft carried out extensive bombing raids over the Westcliff and Leigh area. All told, roughly 25-30 bombs were dropped, including three of the biggest bombs Southend had seen to that point. The Southend Standard dubbed the raids over the Southend area 'The Towns Noisest Night' owing to the constant hum of planes overhead and dropped bombs. Despite the consistent bombing over 3 days, only 11 people were injured, all hailing from St.John's Road in Westcliff - who were injured by a 500k.g. High Explosive bomb - however there were many close calls. Two 500 k.g. H.E. bombs caused damage to over 200 properties, as well as schools and two shops connected to London Road.A 50kg bomb landed at the meeting of Kings Road and Hall Park Avenue. No casualties were reported but damage was done to multiple houses.

Bomb 330: King's Road

Bomb falls near the junction of Kings Rd and Hall Park Ave damaging surrounding houses, including this one at what is now 81 King's Rd.

Bombs 7 - 10: Early Morning Bombing at the Foreshore

4 bombs fell on the foreshore opposite. Damage was largely minor and caused by broken glass

Houses and shops on the foreshore weredamaged

On the 3rd of September, as many as 5 enemy planes were brought down during a bombing run on Hornchurch airfield. Bf 110C-2 (3225) 3U+KR of 7/ZG26 was shot down by Flying Officer B. Van Mentz of 222 Squadron and Flying Officer D.A.P. McMullen, Pilot Officers C.F. Gray and S. Baker of 54 Squadron during combat over the Thames Estuary at 10.38am. The plane came down 200 yards north of Poynters Lane, 300 yards west of Star Lane and was in surprisingly good condition despite it's violent landing. From the crew, Fw H. Grau was captured and Uffz G. Uecker was also captured but died of his wounds the next day in Southend General Hospital.F/O Van Mentz was credited with helping destroy two Messerschmitts that day - he went on to receive the Distinguished Flying Cross for his efforts. On 26th April, 1941, Van Mentz and others from the 222 Squadron, with the Battle of Britain seemingly over, wound down from duties with some drinks in the Ferry Inn (a pub near Horning) when a bomb hit the pub directly - Van Mentz was one of 21 people killed in the blast. He was 23 and his final total of aerial victories stood at 8.

3rd September, 1940: Messerschmitt brought down by North Shoebury House

Flying Officer Brian Van Mentz

Damaged Messerschmitt by North Shoebury House, photo courtesy of Southend Museums

The squad emblem of the Luftwaffe's 7th Squadron, part of the 26ZG (Zerstörergeschwader) - a penguin carrying a parasol - was marked on the plane.

At 11.22pm on the 18th of June, 1940 Southend residents experienced their first meaningful run in with Nazi Germany's Luftwaffe - five high explosive bombs were dropped, with three landing in Hobleythick Lane and two hitting Southend High School for Boys.A testament to the destructive force of the 50kg high explosive bombs dropped by the Luftwaffe, the resultant damage of the two bombs (one had failed to detonate) that had exploded in Hobleythick Lane completely destroyed two houses and damaged almost a hundred. There were 12 reported injuries, and one casualty - Mr. Robert Barrett Jolley, a chaffeur who lived at 25 Hobleythick Lane. Mr. Jolley was shouting to his son to wake up and head down to the bomb shelter from the landing of his house when he was struck with a large splinter of the detonated bomb. When interviewed, a family member stated that as recently as the previous Sunday (16th June), Mr.Jolley had said "I have a feeling I shall be the first of us to go" and that "If its got your number on it, you'll get it!"

Bomb 6: Bombs on Hobleythick Lane

On the night of December 11th, 1940, at 9:15pm, Southend saw 500kg high explosive bombs used for the first time. A 500kg bomb was dropped at the meeting of London Road and Claremont Road, demolishing one house, damaging two shops, two schools and approximately 200 properties. Miraculously, no-one was injured - however many buildings were not able to survive their damage.

Bomb 336: 500kg bomb dropped on junction of London Road and Claremont Road

Damage caused as a result of 500kg high explosive bombs. Featured is some damage to shops, schools and property. Photos courtesy of Southend Museums and Southend Pictorial Telegraph

On the 19th of October, 1940, a bombing raid over Southend resulted in the use of various bombs in the Southchurch area. A mixture of high explosive bombs (all 50kg in weight) and incendiary bombs were dropped as well as one solitary oil bomb.Oil bombs required incendiaries as a form of switch to ignite the oil that would spread across the area. These were unreliable and not often used after 1940 however an oil bomb and incendiaries were dropped with effect at 15, Trinity Road, Southchurch.Five were injured - Mr. Fowler of 17 Trinity Rd, Mrs.Taylor of 20a Trinity Rd, Richard Laurence Gardiner of 27 Trinity Rd, Mrs. Kathleen Jones (who is not listed as living in the street and may have been visiting) and Mrs. Smith, who was in the area on her bicycle to familiarise herself with the roads of Southchurch for her job as an ambulance driver when the oil bomb landed in front of her. All injuries bar Mrs.Jones (who was hit in the leg with a bomb splinter) were burn related.

Bomb 223: Oil Bomb ignites on Trinity Road

Article on the oil bomb that landed on Trinity Road from The Southend Standard

Bomb 21 + 22: Bombs on Shoebury High Street

Five were injured when two bombs fell directly on two Anderson shelters. The force was enough to tear the shelters out of the ground and whilst one shelter was empty, the other contained five persons, a mixture of families.

On the 28th of August 1940, 21 bombers flew over Southend, dropping approximately 80 bombs. Manners Way was hit by a total of 15 50kg high explosive bombs (many however did not detonate). Mrs.Barrett and her Neighbour Mrs.Cooper sheltered in her home-made concrete shelter - the door was blown in but only minor injuries were sustained. Of her bungalow, Mrs.Barrett stated "It is such a pity about our home...we were so happy in it".A shop situated at the bottom of a block of flats was completely decimated, with the young shop clerk - 15 year old Ruby Dawson - dying from her wounds later in hospital. Two other women, Mrs. Mitchell who was on Manners Way, and Ms. Rossi, who was on Victoria Avenue, also died later from their injuries at Southend General Hospital.

Bomb 48: Manners Way

Shop and flat complex on Manners Way

Destroyed bungalow belonging to Mrs.Barrett

Mrs. Barrett (right) and her neighbour Mrs.Cooper

Photo possibly shows damage on Cliff Road on 11th December 1940, however this is unconfirmed. Top of house spires match location that bomb is plotted on map, however many buildings appear to have been altered - possibly between repairs and general modernisation.

Bomb 136: Priory Park Bombed

On the 16th November, 1940 at 8:30pm, roughly 20 bombs were dropped on Southend. Southend escaped with no loss of life and minimal damage overall.Two bombs fell inside the grounds of the Southend Gasworks - likely the target of this bombing run. However, one of these bombs (which were all 50kg bombs) fell on what is now the Sealife Centre car park, not far from the Kursaal. Part of the Kursaal building is seen in the background. One of the greatest challenges in plotting bombs for this map is in marrying images to specific bombs that were dropped - often buildings that survive damage are the best clue for placing locations - however when 'Kursaal' is written on buildings in letters visible from the sky, matters are made a touch easier!

Bomb 286: A Near Miss for the Kursaal

Bomb damage at what is now the modern day Sealife Centre car park - image courtesy of Southend Museums

Kursaal building on map of Southend, the shape of the building helps to isolate the direction in the photo

Location today - some of the buildings survived! Credit: Google

On the 19th of September, 1940 at 9:50am, Trinity Road was hit by two 50kg high explosive bombs. One destroyed the house of postman Charles Powell, 153 Trinity Road, burying him and his mother-in-law, 72 year old Martha Olding, under the wreckage of the house.Mr.Powell was rescued from the wreckage and sent to a nearby first aid post for treatment, and Mrs.Powell - his wife - was uninjured but required treatment for shock. Mrs. Olding however was found to be dead under the rubble. A shop and other houses were also damaged.

Bomb 129: Trinity Road

Damage from a high explosive bomb on Trinity Road

Bomb damage on Trinity Rd

Bomb 11 - Ulster Avenue

High Explosive bomb (50kg) dropped on 18th August 1940 at 5:36pm landing in Ulster Avenue. One of three bombs dropped on Ulster Avenue during the bombing raids on the 18th of August 1940. No casualties or injuries were reported. In the picture, three people stand in the bomb crater for scale of the depth!Photo courtesy of Southend Museums.

A German bomber, who formed part of an attack on London, attempted to leave as much damage as it could before heading back across the English Channel on the 21st November, 1940.Just before midday, at 11:48am, a dual engine German bomber materialised above Shoeburyness and dropped six 250kg high explosive bombs. Two bombs landed at Ulster Avenue, and four landed at various points off of Campfield Road. Five exploded, and one failed to detonate - all with minimal damage caused. The German plane additionally opened fire on the ground below, but caused no injury or death. The Southend Standard reported that more damage was done to property by the plane's machine guns than by the high calibre bombs that were dropped.

German plane unleashes machine gun fire over Shoeburyness - 21st November 1940

Article on the attack of the Shoebury area on 21st November, reported by The Southend Standard

Bomb 21 + 22: Bombs on Shoebury High Street

Bomb 276: Cumberland Avenue

Bomb damage on Cumberland Avenue - images courtesy of Southend Museums

Bombs 208: The Dangers of Friendly Fire

One of the often unhighlighted tragedies of the Second World War is that of collateral damage on the civilian population. In the latter half of 1940, Nazi Germany increased their efforts in the bombing of not only legitimate military targets but civilian areas to cultivate fear. Incoming German raiders would be reported by local civilian defence groups, as well as spotted by coastal defence positioned by the military.

Article detailing the death of Mr.Tibbles - his age and reason for being at the corner are proven incorrect in a follow up article.

Shoebury Garrison and H.M.S. Leigh on the pier were the main defensive headquarters for Southend District, and outposts were positioned to target enemy aircraft using anti-aircraft guns. Heavy anti-aircraft guns were considerably more powerful than light anti-aircraft guns and were used to engage planes at a distance. However visibility, speed of aircraft, and height of aircraft were all factors these guns had to contend with - and why heavy A.A. fire could lead to devastating consequences for civilians. In one such instance, an A.A. shell fired at a German raider detonated in midair, and the fragments of the shell landed directly on top of the unfortunate Frederick Harry Tibbles, a builder from Shoebury on the 17th October, 1940. He was killed instantly. Though he was initially reported to have been 26, his age at death was 28.

Follow up article amending previous incorrect article details

A string of high explosive bombs (50kg) were dropped on the 29th October at 7:46pm, with two dropping on in heart of Prittlewell, just off of Victoria Avenue. One fell behind property near Root's Hall Stadium (which caused six injures to four men and two women - mostly minor cuts from glass) and one fell mere feet from a bicycle shop (which now houses the Kindercare baby shop), ultimately landing and detonating on the west wing of a Church Hall (what is now St. Mary's Church Centre and was formally the Prittlewell Pool club).

Church Hall off of Victoria Avenue damaged

Article on the bombing of Prittlewell Church Hall

The west wing of the Church Hall was badly hit.

Bombs 7 - 10: Early Morning Bombing at the Foreshore

4 bombs fell on the foreshore opposite. Damage was largely minor and caused by broken glass

Houses and shops on the foreshore weredamaged

Heinkel HE 111 Bomber Crash on Lifstan Way

On the 30th August 1940, a Heinkel HE 111 manned by a crew of five was shot down and crashed on Lifstan Way - Junior Officer Adolf Saam (flight engineer), Sergeant Ernst Erhard Von Kuenheim (radio officer) and Senior Lance Corporal Otto Fischer (rear gunner) were all killed in action. Officer Helmut Gall (pilot) escaped the plane via parachute and landed in Thorpe Hall Golf Course and Leuitenant Wolf Roesler (observer) landed on Southend foreshore, just east of the Pier.Some reports suggest one woman was killed by falling debris but this is unconfirmed. The crash site was littered with 7 unexploded bombs, 1 50kg H.E. bomb and 6 significantly more dangerous 250kg bombs. A chilling thought if they had been used.

Crew member bailing out of crashing plane

Captured airman in Southend

Image of wreckage

Bomb 269: Bus narrowly avoids catastrophe - Oakengrange Drive

At 6:38pm on the 1st of November, 1940, seven bombs were dropped over the Southend District - 6 of these were 50kg High Explosive bombs, and one was an oil bomb. A few of these High Explosive bombs were timed bombs, and detonated after a pre-determined duration. Some minor damage was done to a bungalow.One of the above H.E. bombs landed on Oakengrange Drive in front of a travelling bus. The Southend Standard reported that the bomb detonated and made a crater some 20 yards in front of the bus. Miraculously, despite the road being flanked with houses, the houses received no damage, and nor did the bus, the driver or any of its passengers. The bus driver broke hard upon the bombs detonation and managed to stop with part of his bus overhanging the bomb crater. The only casualty was a water main under the road.

Images courtesy of Southend Museums.

On the 14th of October, 1940 at 12:26pm, two heavy calibre high explosive bombs (each weighing 250kg) were dropped - one in the gardens of Old Southend Road and Southchurch Avenue, off of York Road and one landing at 5, The Grove.This bomb was the single worst in Southend to this point, resulting in 24 injuries and two deaths - that of Edward Jack Gillingham, 38, and his wife Cecilia Louise Gillingham, 43. Mr and Mrs Gillingham were walking in their garden together when the bomb landed mere feet from them, killing them both instantly. Their daughter Hilda was injured in the blast and taken to hospital. Surgery was performed and she survived. At Mr and Mrs. Best's house at 9, The Grove, the bomb injured Mrs.Best who was sent away in an ambulance. Her daughter was broken-hearted and was in such a state that she wouldn't go in the ambulance with her mother. The Best family's pet canary had also sustained an injury in the bombing and had a cut above one of its eyes.The first aider at the A.R.P. aid post bathed the bird's cut and this soothed the young girl, who cuddled the canary inside her coat, stepping willingly into the ambulance with her injured mother to hospital.

Bomb 205: The Grove

Damage from the bomb that landed at 5, The Grove

Mr. Gillingham and his wife Cecilia were killed

List of the injured on The Grove from the impact of the 250kg H.E. bomb.

On the night of December 11th, 1940, at 9:15pm, Southend saw 500kg high explosive bombs used for the first time. Three 500kg bombs were dropped including this bomb which was dropped on Cossington Road, destroying 2 houses and half of another. Interestingly, the house in the photo is listed as 34, however today the same house is numbered as 42. It is possible houses were renumbered after the demolition of the two neighbouring houses, and properties that were once one house may have since been turned into two addresses.Miraculously, no-one was killed - however many buildings were not able to survive their damage.

Bomb 338: 500kg bomb dropped on Cossington Road

Damage on Cossington Road. Photo courtesy of Southend Museums

Bombs dropped on Southend Borough during WWII

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