The Day War Broke Out

The crowds outside Number 10, Downing Street await the news which would determine the fate of the country.

Neville Chamberlain, poised to broadcsat the infamous announcement which was to change the face of Britain and the world.

For the first time, on 3 September 1939, British citizens, some waving the cardboard cases carrying their gas masks, descend into a shelter in St James’s Park, London.

Piles and piles of sandbags – a scene which would soon become familiar as the country prepared to defend itself from the enemy.

Preparations for war were far-reaching, requiring everyone to pull together.

A group of women paint the road to guide people in the blackout.

Gas masks were distributed – here a warden is fitting masking tape to a mask.

Rationing soon became the norm. Here is a Ministry of food ration book.

With most men away fighting, women took over what would have then been regarded as typically ‘male roles’ in society. Organisations like the Women’s Land Army kept the country going in tough times.

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Operation Pied Piper transformed the lives of many young children as they were transported to the relative safety of the countryside.

Whilst away many children had life-changing adventures. Inner-city children were given the chance to see outside their world of traffic and smog, instead experiencing the joys of the countryside.

The show goes on . . .

A cinema reopens after temporary closure upon the declaration of war.

A group of dancers rehearse their routine equipped with both helmets and gas masks.

The impact of the Second World War was felt throughout the country. The lives of British people – young and old, rich and poor – were seemingly altered for ever. The day the war ended was a day of jubilation and celebration up and down the country and, just like the day war was declared, would become ingrained in the memory of the nation for generations to come.

Staff nurses in Liverpool celebrate VE Day.

A street party in Manchester. Other events like this were happening up and down the country.