Deal & District at War

Much emphasis has been given to the Second World War experiences of East Kent’s ‘frontline’ towns of Dover, Folkestone and Thanet, but the ancient port and town of Deal suffered equally from enemy bombing and shelling. Deal bore the disadvantage of being located opposite the notorious Goodwin Sands, where many vessels and even some aircraft were lost. From the time of the Dunkirk evacuation in May/June 1940 until after D-Day some four years later, the residents of Deal withstood all that the enemy threw at them. Richly illustrated, Deal and District at War recounts many unique and controversial events which include: a German coastal raid in Sandwich Bay when at least 1 British soldier was snatched; an enemy pilot entertained by a local family after being shot down; cases of smuggling and ‘services rendered’ by Walmer lifeboat; and the world-famous ‘Lifeboat Doctor’ James Hall. This book will evoke powerful memories for those whose families experienced the war and provide fascinating reading for anyone interested in the history of Deal and District.

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