BRIXHAM BATTERY

JANUARY AT THE BATTERY

2012-02-02T15:13:00.000-08:00

Its been an incredibly busy month at the Battery what with spring cleaning, welcoming groups, getting on with the 'Neighbourhood Challenge' project - working on the 'WW2 Memories Book', Brixham At War' exhibition and the play 'The Cromwell Alert'. And building/restoration work in the grounds and museum.
The 'Challenge' is coming to an end and we have to present the final project to the judges on February 26th - the day after our 'Old Time - War Time' music hall 'fancy dress' WW2 dance do at 'The 'Edge' Bolton Street, Brixham on Saturday February 25th 7.30pm - late. Admission at the door £5 Adult £2 under 16 years. Refreshments served but BYO wine etc. Live music from 'The Brixham Blitzers' should be a good laugh!!
Come along and support our group.

email hiightres@tiscali.co.uk or phone 01803 852449 for more info!!

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2012-01-03T00:55:00.000-08:00

BRIXHAM BATTERY WISH YOU A VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR

HOPE TO SEE YOU IN 2012

WE ARE OPEN EVERY SUNDAY, MONDAY AND FRIDAY

2pm - 4pm

THROUGHOUT THE YEAR FREE ADMISSION

A very happy Xmas from us all!

2011-12-21T14:52:00.000-08:00

HAPPY XMAS!!!!! The team after visiting 'The Edge' grotto on Wednesday!!!!!

HAPPY XMAS

2011-12-20T00:51:00.000-08:00

HAPPY XMAS FROM US ALL AT BRIXHAM BATTERY GROUP.
Hope to see you at the Battery Museum in 2012.
Remember we are open every Monday, Friday and Sunday 2pm - 4pm throughout the year.

Note we are open BOXING DAY afternoon!!

IN MEMORIUM Mrs P Woods.

2011-12-15T11:47:00.000-08:00

Brixahm Battery Group must thank the late Mrs P Woods of Torbay for the donation of her late husbands military memorabilia.
Captain Derek Woods joined the Royal Tank Corps in November 1936. On the 10th June 1940 Capt. Woods was seconded to the Training Regiment Royal Armoured Corps in which he served until March 1944. After which he was transferred to the Royal Army Ordinance Corps.
Much of Captain Woods time was spent training men as drivers in AFV's (armoured fighting vehicles) at Bovington, Lulworth, Blackdown Plymouth and Brampton.
He was eventually demobilized on the 23rd July 1947.
Photos show him in service uniform, his identification passes, service record book, his wedding day and badges of rank etc.

These items will be on display in our Heritage Museum form 2012.

XMAS CARNIVAL 2011

2011-12-05T23:03:00.001-08:00

Photos of this years Xmas Carnival Squad about go 'into action'. Thousands flocked the streets of Brixham to see one of the best Xmas Carnivals ever in town. A great do and great fund to be a part of this community event. Thanks to all members who took part in the long march!!

FRED SAYER

2011-12-05T22:54:00.001-08:00

Stonemason Steve Soper put Fred Sayer's memorial plaque on the Battery Archive building wall yesterday afternoon. Photo shows members Keith Dingley and Robbie Robinson standing by the plaque.

'Lest We Forget'.

NEIGHBOURHOOD CHALLENGE EVENT

2011-12-03T06:58:00.001-08:00

A very big thank you to all who supported today's 'Neighbourhood Challenge' project exhibition and fund raising coffee morning held in Brixham. We raised £215 that will keep our museum open free to the public.

Neighbourhood Challenge Update.

2011-12-01T23:27:00.001-08:00

Battery group members attended a 'community meeting' at the EDGE on Wednesday afternoon. We gave a short presentation of 'progress so far' on our challenge project 'The Cromwell Alert'. The meeting was hosted by project YES leaders Angela, Andrew and Chris. A representative of NESTA, the funding body, was also present.
Robert and Ryan Corder gave good account of their involvement which included our living history events at Berry Head, Dartmouth Castle etc. plus the stewarding of school and visitor groups to Battery Gardens and the emplacements.
Robert also commented on the umber of taped interviews he had recorded of veterans during our memories day at the Battery.
Our 'Edge' WW2 Memories Exhibition was given very positive feedback and it was agreed that our forthcoming CD/DVD of Brixham's wartime past should be distributed to schools and libraries free of charge in March 2012.

The next 'exhibition' will be on Saturday December 3rd am at the Methodist Community Hall, Fore Street, Brixham.

'CROMWELL ALERT' EXHIBITION

2011-11-21T00:10:00.001-08:00

Saturday saw our 'Neighbourhood Challenge' exhibition entitled the 'Cromwell Alert' go on display at the Edge Community Centre, Bolton Street, Brixham. This one day event was part of our on going WW2 Memories Project. The display, a collection of wartime photographs and written wartime memories.exhibited 'progress so far'.
Anyone interested in the project please contact the Battery Group by email - hiightres@tiscali.co.uk

A big thank you to all who supported us on the day. And a big thank you to NESTA and YES for hosting the event. Photo of Brixham Clr Lomas welcoming the PM group member Dave Clarke to the exhibition.

Photo of the PM with visitors.
Went the day well.

SCOUT GROUP VISIT

2011-11-17T12:27:00.001-08:00

A big thank you to all members/stewards who assisted with Saturday afternoons Scout Group visit. A good time was had by all!

WW2 MEMORIES DAY

2011-11-10T09:22:00.001-08:00

On Sunday November 9th Brixham Battery held a 'WW2 Memories Day as part of our 'Neighbourhood Challenge' project. It also happened to be CSV 'Make a Difference Day'.

Over 100 visitors took part in the day which included recording people's wartime memories. A part one display of collected material is to go on dispaly a the Edge Community Centre Bolton Street Brixham on Saturday November 19th 10am-4.30pm. Free entry refreshments available all day.

BELGIANS IN BRIXHAM 1940-44

2011-11-01T10:56:00.000-07:00

Photos from the IWM showing aspects of WW2 life in Brixham for Belgian refugees.

BRIXHAM BATTERY 1800-1945

2011-10-23T15:08:00.000-07:00

Good day at the Battery with a visit form the 'Napoleonic Army'. Thanks to all who turned out in kit.
Remember Sunday November 6th 2011 'WW2 MEMORIES DAY' at the Battery 11am - 4.30pm friends/relatives/personal memories recorded for the future! Please come along its part of our 'Neighbourhood Challenge' project and 'Make a Difference' day. More info 01803 752239.

DONATIONS OF WW2 ARTEFACTS

2011-10-01T10:33:00.000-07:00

VERY MANY THANKS FOR SUPPORTERS WHO DONATED THE 'TURTLE' STEEL HELMET, WW2 ARP 'WARDENS HELMET AND THE NAVAL CAP, BLAZER AND TROUSERS.
DONATED ITEMS NOW ON DISPLAY IN OUR 'HERITAGE' MUSEUM.

HERITAGE WEEK END 2011

2011-09-11T11:18:00.000-07:00

Photos of our the 3 day 'Heritage Open Days' event at the Battery. Thanks to all who supported the days.
Hundreds of visitors toured the grounds and museum in sunny weather! A great success.

BRIXHAM RAIL AT WAR

2011-09-05T06:28:00.000-07:00

In ww2 Brixham railway station staff were issued with gas masks and steel helmets. Many staff members became involved in civil defence and Home Guard duties. Security around the station intensified during the 'invasion' crisis following the Dunkirk evacuation in May/June 1940. Staff were issued with 'pink slips' ID cards that had to be shown when challenged by Home Guardsman and Police. Gas masks and ID had to carried at all times!
Home Guard staff included Sgt Percy Wadham, Corp Dick Stancombe and Privates George Baker and Rod Saunders.
Fire Watchers included station master Cecil Williams and Charlie Ashton.
The railway supplied engine spares for the Royal Navy and ammunition, torpedoes, explosives and depth charges. Deliveries were made to Brixham from the naval store at Keyham, Plymouth.
Camouflage paint was produced by the Brixham Paint Company and 40 gallon drums were dispatched by rail to airfields across the country.
To be continued:

STEP BACK IN TIME PHOTOS

2011-09-05T06:18:00.000-07:00

Selection of shots from Dartmouth Castle's 'Step Back in Time' ww2 event with Brixham Battery.
Thanks to Merryn and staff from Dartmouth Castle and all who supported the 2 day event. Over 1000 visitors were entertained by group members re-en-acting the 'air raids' made against the town, ship yards and vessels from 1940 to 1945.

STEP BACK IN TIME

2011-09-02T23:20:00.000-07:00

Day two of Brixham Battery's 'Step Back in Time' event at Dartmouth Castle. Photo Collage of the day!

DARTMOUTH CASTLE EVENT

2011-08-29T11:54:00.000-07:00

Photo collage of today's Brixham Battery Groups involvement at Dartmouth Castle's 'Step Back In Time' event.
Thanks to all who turned up in 'kit' and the military vehicle owners!

BERRY HEAD MORE PHOTOS

2011-08-25T12:13:00.000-07:00

Pete's half track.

A few more photos of the Berry Head WW2 Day August 21st. Taken by Bev. Photos of Keith, Ryan, Charles and Dave taken by Bev.

BERRY HEAD WW2 DAY - MORE PHOTOS

2011-08-21T23:33:00.000-07:00

More photos of Sunday's WW2 day on Berry Head. Thanks to Ranger Chris Smallbones + staff.

BERRY HEAD WW2 + COLD WAR DAY

2011-08-21T11:59:00.000-07:00

Great day on Berry Head! Many thanks to all who turned out in 'kit'. Also thanks to Ian (Norton 500cc Motor bike + side car) + the Galmpton Military Vehicle Club for bringing along the White Scout car and 2 ww2 jeeps! See photos.

TABLE TOP SALE

2011-08-15T10:03:00.000-07:00

Very many thanks to group member Rob White for organizing this afternoon's fund raiser. Over £150 raised for our on going 'War Shelter' restoration project. Money raised will be spent on 'sand blasting' and painting the 2 RSJ's in the gun crew rooms!
Photo of Rob White in 'action'.

SUNDAY AT THE BATTERY

2011-08-14T14:57:00.000-07:00

Yet another good day at the Battery - plenty of visitors and re-en-actors. Guided tours as well!
Thanks to all who supported the day! Welcome to new members brothers Ryan and Robert Corder.

JIM WINFIELD RIP

2011-08-11T14:41:00.000-07:00

Yet another 'founder member' has passed on today. Jim Winfield veteran WW2 Ox+Bucks Light Infantry and 5 year POW. A great character and good man. He helped dig trenches and restore the Heritge Centre back in 2000 dislocating his knee in the process.
Always ready to pick up a shovel and get stuck in - we shall miss him.
RIP Jim. Photos of Jim with his pay book and the bullet that shot him into his 5 year POW captivity!

SUNDAY AT THE BATTERY

2011-08-07T10:31:00.001-07:00

Group now getting ready for the Berry Head ww2 do on Sunday August 21st, see photos! Thanks to Robert Corder HG, Charles McKeating RAF, Steve Watkins US Army.

DONATIONS

2011-08-04T13:36:00.001-07:00

Very many thanks to Mike Goodearl and Jeff Savage for donating items for display this week. We have two 'WW2' service 'gas masks' in their original bags. One from Mike and one from Jeff. Plus Mike donated a WW1 'Trench Periscope'. Jeff also donated a WW2 Plymouth 'Police Helmet', a German helmet (relic from the Loire) and a WW2 French Army helmet.
See photos.
Thanks for your support. The items are now on display in the Heritage Centre.

DARTMOUTH CASTLE

2011-08-01T00:26:00.000-07:00

Brixham Battery Group will be taking over Dartmouth Castle for a 2 day 'living history' ww2 event 'Step Back in Time.
Dates August 29th + 30th 10am - 4.30pm both days.
Re-en-actors will steward visitors around the castle evoking the atmosphere of Dartmouth Castle manned by Royal Artillery gunners manning the 2 coastal guns + home front personnel looking out for air attacks etc.
US Army personnel will be seen as members of the 4th Infantry Division and other US units were stationed around the town during 1944 (D-Day assault training and Utah Beach Invasion fleet). Photos of last years Dartmouth do!
Any re-en-actor wishing to take part please contact:
email
hiightres@tiscali.co.uk
Thanks.

BRIXHAM NEIGHBOURHOOD CHALLENGE

2011-07-17T05:10:00.000-07:00

Happy to announce that 'Brixham Battery' has been successful in gaining a place in the local YES neighbourhood challenge 2011.
The WW2 memories project - 'The Cromwell Alert' starts today Sunday July 17th and runs for 6 months. The aim is to create a multi media exhibition of both local and national WW2 memories - photos, documents, written oral histories, music, film, propaganda, Home Guard, Civil Defence, Evacuees, rationing in fact anything that relates to Brixham, South Devon and further afield.
Material collected will be 'displayed' in Brixham Town in February 2012. Copies of the exhibition will be on CD/DVD and will be distributed to all schools, libraries colleges etc in the South Devon Area.
If you have or your family have a memory/photo/story or are interested in getting involved contact me : Phil Trayhorn
email hiightres@tiscali.co.uk
Thanks.

FRED SAYER RIP

2011-07-13T12:40:00.000-07:00

Good send off for Fred today at his funeral service held at Stockman's Brixham. Well over 120 mourners gathered to remember Fred.
Goodbye to a good friend and staunch Battery Group member.

FRED SAYER

2011-07-11T00:10:00.000-07:00

I have to report the sad loss of one of our staunchest members Mr Fred Sayer. Fred had been a member for over 6 years and had become our unofficial 'meet and greet' gate guard' officer.
He would call to passers by the museum 'come and see our WW2 museum its free!'
Thousands of visitors have been 'encouraged' into the museum after chatting to Fred at the gate.
Fred was a true character telling some of the worst jokes we had ever heard - that's what made them so funny!
An excellent time keeper and very reliable man he was always on time at the museum ready to open at exactly 2pm and collecting in the outside information boards minutes before closing.
He enjoyed our educational school visits entertaining and informing the children of his own wartime memories of East End London and of his 2 years National Service in Malaya in the early 1950's.
We will miss Fred but we will carry on as he would wish - conserving and interpreting the history and fabric of the Battery at Battery Gardens, Brixham.

MOTHERS CROSS DONATION.

2011-06-25T14:45:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to the doner's of the Nazi ' Mothers Cross' Award. The medal was first awarded in 1939 to German mothers who gave birth to 3-9 + Reich babies. The last award was in 1944. Thousands of mothers were given the award in an attempt to promote Aryan purity and increase the 'Master Race'.
The cross can be seen in our Axis cabinet display in the museum.

REME UNIFORM DONATION South East Asia.

2011-06-25T01:12:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to Rose for donating her father's South East Asia Command Battledress blouse and trousers (BD 1940). Note REME SEAC shoulder flashes + lanyard.
Uniform worn by Denis Noble Furness, 25 Advance Base Workshops REME India Command.
Also photo of accompanying badges, Anti-Aircraft badges believed to be that of Denis' wife Vera Margaret Furness (Robinson) number W/281046 enlisted Harrogate 18/6/43 assigned A+S Group 26/11/43. Qualified Wireless Operator W/6.
Denis and Margaret married on 11/12/44.

Gun floor repaint.

2011-06-19T00:20:00.000-07:00

Torbay Council have agreed to repaint the 2 gun-floors later this summer. Official assent has to be sought from the Secretary of State before work can commence as Battery Gardens is a Scheduled Historic Monument.
Colour scheme will remain the same - grey interiors with brown exterior. Photos of gun floors attached as well as a photo collage of Brixham Battery's activities over the past years.

HARBOUR DEFENCE PILL BOX

2011-06-10T12:45:00.000-07:00

Good day at the Battery with visitors visiting the restored harbour defence pill box complete with Rod, Theresa and the gun! See photos.

D-Day Commemorative Week End

2011-06-05T11:22:00.000-07:00

A good week end for the Battery. We raised £190 on Saturdays 'Coffee Morning' and a further £190 on Sundays 'Living History' Event remembering 'D-Day' June 6th 1944.
Gordon 'Jigger' Smith entertained visitors who were taken around the 14 acre Battery site between BBQ'd baps and burgers donated by 'Davids Fish and Chips' Bolton Street, Brixham. A big thank you to Scott of Davids Fish Shop for 'sponsoring' the days event.
Also a thanks to all the re-en-actors who turned out in 'kit' for the day.
Yet again the 'went the day well' for Brixham Battery.
Thanks to all who supported the week end.
Photos of Sunday's event.

DONATED ITEMS.

2011-05-26T09:49:00.000-07:00

This week has seen a number of interesting items donated to the Battery Museum. We have received a WW2 No. 19 AVF (tank) radio set, a WW2 army morse signal lamp, a RAF Lancaster Bomber 1155 radio and a Webley and Scott 1939 Service Rifle .22 mk 11.

First photo of signal/morse lamp, then No.19 set, the 1155 and the Webley Service Rifle Mk 11.

The radios were donated by Mr Mike Goodall and the rifle by Mrs S Adams, both from South Devon.

Thanks to all who support Brixham Battery.

SCHOOL VISIT

2011-05-25T14:25:00.000-07:00

Collaton-St-Marys Primary School paid us a visit on Monday 23rd May. Over 60 pupils + teachers and parents took the tour and spent time in the museum. A great time was had by all with the stewards being bombarded by questions, some of which were in depth.

The children showed good insight into many aspects of WW2 history, a credit to their teachers.

The children were divided into 4 groups led by one steward and accompanying teachers/parents. I think they found the underground tunnel and war shelter rooms quite exciting!

We look forward to seeing them all again at the Battery!

Torbay Young Explorers Visit

2011-05-15T13:43:00.000-07:00

Good day at the Battery with the Torbay Young Explorers Club visiting! Plus visitors from New Zealand retracing their family footsteps which included Home Guardsman AFG Hay's son and daughter in law! + visitors from distant South End in Essex. (See photos) Thanks to all supporters and stewards for 'turning out' today.

EASTER SUNDAY

2011-04-25T23:57:00.000-07:00

More photos of Sundays Event by Tone at Studio4t1. Thanks Tony.

Easter Open Day.

2011-04-24T13:17:00.000-07:00

Hundreds of visitors to the Battery today! We raised £287 towards our 'War Shelter Restoration' fund!
Very many thanks to the visitors, stewards, re-en actors and supporters who made the hot sunny day such a great success. Hundreds of cups of tea made by Wendy whilst others escorted visitors on guided tours around the Battery including the War Shelter, tunnel, pill-box and emplacements.
Thanks also to the Norton and BSA 1940 bike owners who supported the day! Please see photos.

WORK CONTINUES

2011-04-22T12:25:00.000-07:00

The 'WAR SHELTER' and Tunnel 'emergency lighting' is now fully operational thanks to Ivan Parton. Today we removed all the previously sacked debris and broken bricks from the war rooms, thanks to Jeff Dawes and his van. Rod Hart reinstated the twice broken wooden hand rail at the entrance to the pill box and Wendy, Robbie, Dave, Steve and Andrew helped steward the museum. Steve Watkins finished the 'Kings Speech' display and set up the new CD players. A big thank you to Joe for all his sweated labour!
Photos of the team at tea enjoying a well earned rest!

WORK,WORK,WORK.

2011-04-19T00:43:00.000-07:00

Work continues on clearing and rewiring the tunnel and war shelter rooms making ready for this Sunday's open day event. Photos attached show volunteers painting the Consol Air Raid Shelter, walking on the new woodland steps, working down the tunnel and in the war shelter. And stewards at work in and around the museum spring cleaning.
All photos taken this week.

Another Day at the Battery.

2011-04-15T14:04:00.001-07:00

Spent some time yesterday and today rewiring the underground tunnel. We now have two lights alongside the original light dishes. Low level lighting allows good visibility but also adds to the sense of being in a historical place. Attached photo of Dave Clarke 'Winnie' complete with Union Jack added by the man himself - very effective!
Rod and Mike also finished the hand safety rail allowing better access to the restored pill box.
Getting ready for Easter Sunday!

MP's visit to the Battery.

2011-04-14T00:09:00.000-07:00

MP Dr Sarah Woolaston, centre in blue and group members outside the ATS 'museum.

Dr Sarah Woolaston MP for the South Hams visited the Battery yesterday afternoon, part of her South Devon Coast Path Walk for charity. She was met by group members who first showed her and her colleagues the fully restored 'harbour defence pill-box complete with 'new' replica 6pdr artillery piece. Thanks to Rod and Steve for their marvelous effort!
This was followed by a guided walk through Battery Gardens ending at the museum. Here Sarah met 'Winnie' an old friend of the 'Party'!
Thanks to all who 'turned out' to support the afternoon event. It went very well indeed.

TORQUAY HOTEL VISIT.

2011-03-31T09:37:00.000-07:00

Second visit by the Torquay Hotel group. Thirty very interested visitors - weather held out so we were able to tour the Battery and include both tunnel and war shelter rooms.
Just a note to remind readers that we will be holding a 'Grand Open Day' on Easter Sunday starting around 12md and ending around 4.30pm.
We will show visitors the 'war shelter', tunnel, pill-box, generator room and tour the Battery.
No admission fee but a donation would be most appreciated!

BRIXHAM BATTERY - SUNDAY

2011-03-27T12:38:00.001-07:00

Very busy day at the Battery with Ivan Parton rewiring during the morning and all stewards busy showing many visitors around the museum and grounds during the afternoon. Glorious sunny day meant that there were no excuses for a number of volunteers to clear the undergrowth from the Emergency Observation Post. See photo of Steve Watkins and Peter Bailey at work.
Many thanks to volunteers and members for a good day.

FUND RAISING

2011-03-27T00:45:00.000-07:00

Good mornings fund raising Coffee Morning at the Community Hall, Fore Street, Brixham Saturday Morning!
We managed to raise £200! Thanks to the presence of 'Winnie', US Ranger and British Para (aka Dave Clarke, Steve Watkins and Peter Bailey).
Apart from selling numerous teas/coffees we also had a cake sale and membership table.
Thanks to all who supported the mornings very busy event!!
Photo of group members outside Community Hall.

WINSTON

2011-03-24T13:38:00.000-07:00

Busy day at the Battery with group from 'Torquay Hotel' visiting the museum and taking a guided tour of Battery Grounds which included the underground tunnel, war shelter and emplacements.
30 visitors enjoyed a glorious sunny day entertained by stewards Dave Clarke aka 'PM Winston' and Steve Watkins (US Army Ranger).
Guides Ivan Parton and Phil Trayhorn escorted the group around the grounds. Whilst Wendy Parton made numerous cups of tea for the visitors.
Next hotel group booked for next Thursday morning with the tour commencing at 10am.
Thanks to all who supported the day. Photo of 'Winnie' taken as the visitors arrived. Many thought that he had died some years ago! Careless Talk!

NATIONAL SERVICE FILM NIGHT

2011-03-23T15:27:00.000-07:00

Good night at the Battery this pm thanks to Rod Hart's Imperial War Museum Archive National Service film showing.
This was the second evening of films shown to Battery members by Rod and included MOD films on the Women's Royal Air Force, H.M. Submarine 'Artemis', The Junior Leaders Regiment, The British Army in Aden + MOD recruitment films.
The films covered the mid 1950's to the mid 1960's.
Photos of Junior Leaders Band, National Service Army and Navy Posters, HMS Artemis and WAAF wartime poster.

BRIXHAM - BOMBED

2011-03-14T00:52:00.001-07:00

Geoffrey Hill's name appears on the 'Debt of Honour' Commonwealth War Graves Commission web site. Geoffrey is buried in Brixham churchyard.

BRIXHAM - BOMBED

2011-03-13T11:48:00.000-07:00

Notes from Sam Tribble reference the bombing of Brixham Town and Harbour 19th May 1941.
'On a spring like morning four 10 year old Brixham lads became aware that 'bombs kill'.
Trudging up Station Hill on our way to Furzeham School, Ern Brown, brothers Dennis and Reuben Medway (whose father Vincent had been killed on HMS Saucy) and myself decided to play football (with a tennis ball) by the Bowling Green. A lot of boys were playing on the Park Green nearby with others standing along the road waiting for the caretaker or teacher to open the school gates.
We all heard the plane, was it one of ours? We looked and saw a low flying aircraft approach the Breakwater aiming towards Brixham Town. We then saw the German markings and saw the bombs drop, heard the explosions and saw debris fly into the air!
Ern lived in Higher Street and we three lived in Middle Street Our first thoughts 'have our houses been hit and our mothers killed? We all began to cry and took shelter under a park bench. 'What now'? Mr Plucket our teacher ran out of the school shouting 'get to the air raid shelters' that were near the school grounds.
He was shouting and waving his arms at the more distant boys showing them to 'stay down'.
We ran into the school and on the way I remember picking up a piece of warm shrapnel.
We were all unharmed as were ours mothers. Sadly 14 year old Geoffrey Hill was killed as he called into warn the Preston family of the attack. 60 Fore Street received a direct hit killing Geoffrey of Mount Road, Mrs Ellen Preston aged 74 her daughter 'Stella' aged 50 and her son Frank aged 48.
Geoffrey was a 'first aider' in the St John's Ambulance and a 'civilian fire-watcher'. It was his first day at work!
Photo of Brixham AFS outside the Drill Hall.

BRIXHAM BATTERY - HOME GUARD IN DEVON

2011-02-15T02:24:00.001-08:00

More photos from Sunday's photo shoot at the Battery. Photos of Phil Trayhorn HG, Steve Parsons HG, Andy Youngs HG, Andy White RM Instructor (sniper), Pete Bailey Para Instructor, Group of HG Squad including 'Winston Churchill' aka Dave Clarke, Lesley Cook Women's Home Guard and Harry HG runner., Ade Pitman RAF, Steve Watkins 4th US Infantry Div. Steve Spencer HG Engineer (Bomb Disposal). 10th Div. Torbay Home Guard shoulder flash.

Devon's Home Guard Photo shoot.

2011-02-13T10:44:00.000-08:00

Arthur Cook and Group members on the day.

Steve guarding our Bofors.

A great day at the Battery with author Arthur Cook and team photographing Home Guard memorabilia and our re-en-actors in and around Battery Grounds.
Very many thanks to all supporters and members who turned out to support the day.
Wet and damp but 'Went the Day Well'

HERITAGE HEROES - BRIXHAM BATTERY

2011-02-11T02:02:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder to all that Brixham Battery Group has won two prestigious awards to date:
'HERITAGE HEROES' AWARD awarded by the Heritage Lottery Fund for our 'SOUND AND PHOTO ARCHIVE' Project and a 'HIGHLY COMMENDED' CERTIFICATE AWARD from the Homes and Communities Agency - part of the Cabinet Office responsible for community work in the UK for our 'WAR SHELTER RESTORATION PROJECT'.
Please see the film attached.

BRIXHAM COMMUNITY COLLEGE VISIT

2011-02-10T04:02:00.000-08:00

Good visit from Brixham Community College students Tuesday morning. They found the museum most interesting and we hope will return with friends and family.
Remember school/group visits can be arranged by contacting us on 01803 752239 or email
hiightres@tiscali.co.uk - visits include a guided tour of the 14 acre Scheduled Monument site, the restored wartime buildings etc.
No charge but donations are most welcome!
Thanks.

TOWER HOUSE SCHOOL + EVACUEES

2011-02-05T15:14:00.001-08:00

Friday morning and members of Brixham Battery Group attended a seminar at Paignton's Tower House School. Members Kay and Jean both in their 80's answered the question set by students: was (in their view) 'evacuation' a success or failure?
Jean and her twin sister were evacuated form Totteham North London to Cornwall and remained with their host family for four years when they had to return to London to work as they had reached 14 years of age. They both started work one week after their return home!
Kay having been evacuated to Northampton with her elder sister and daughter had to return to London were she joined the Land Army and worked on the fields in Waltham Abbey Essex.
Both had seen the pro's and con's of the evacuation process and its effect on children.
I believe the students gained insight into the plight of youngsters removed from their families going to a strange place with strange people for an unknown length of time? The mind boggles at the thought.
Many thanks to Jean and Kay for their time and sharing their wartime experiences.

BRIXHAM BATTERY

2011-01-30T11:05:00.000-08:00

Great day at the Battery Sunday 30th January 2011. Sunny day a good day for painting the Humber Gate Guard and the 12 pounder cannon! And cleaning our many brass shell cases (See photos). Loads of visitors with plenty of questions for the stewards to answer!!
Remember we are open throughout the year SUNDAY - MONDAY - FRIDAY 2pm - 4pm.
Thursdays from Easter to November.

JAMES ARTHUR TRAYHORN 550 SQUADRON RAF

2011-01-23T14:45:00.000-08:00

Photo of Charlie and younger brother Jimmy.

James Arthur Trayhorn 1925-1944. Joined 550 Squadron Bomber Command as rear gunner in May 1944 after many months of training.
After completing 31 sorties against targets in France and Germany Jimmy's aircraft Lancaster PA 991 BQ-E was hit by flack from German battery's based in Dunkirk France.
This was the last 'Crossbow' raid against V1 launch sites in the Pas de Calais and the crew's last sortie of their 'tour'.
The three gunners were killed in the aircraft whilst the remaining four crew members parachuted to safety and spent the rest of the war as POW's.
Photos of Jimmy's career in the Air Training Corps and RAF + his final resting place at Bollezelle Cemetery. His letter dated June 1940 to his cousin Frank also in the RAF is revealing - he expected a short and 'exciting' life!!
Months after Jimmy's death his mother died aged 43 of a heart attack thought to be due to complicated grief at the loss of her youngest son.

BRIXHAM BATTERY - SCHOOL VISITS

2010-12-18T10:29:00.000-08:00

Photo of Eden Park School pupils holding examples of their WW2 project work that is now on display in our Archive Centre Building next door to the museum.
Their excellent work will be on display until Easter so parents/guardians/friends/relatives come on down, visit the Battery see the display.
Sunday, Monday, Friday 2pm-4pm and its FREE!
For more info phone 01803 857632
email hiightres@tiscali.co.uk
Thanks.

BRIXHAM BATTERY - FUND RAISING

2010-12-14T02:40:00.000-08:00

Great day on Saturday 12th December. Raised over £200 towards the War Shelter Restoration Project. Thanks to supporters, members, re-enactors and 'Ells Angels' otherwise known as Kingswear Village Choir who serenaded customers over tea and coffee at our fund raising coffee morning in Brixham.
Photo of Peter Bailey, Steve Watkins and Andy Youngs in kit.
Photo of ATS Marie Youngs who worked hard during the morning.
Photo of 'Ells Angels' at work.
Photos by group member Matthew Dart.

BRIXHAM BATTERY - XMAS PARADE

2010-12-05T10:07:00.000-08:00

Big thank you to all who turned out in kit for the annual Brixham Xmas Parade 2010.
Our 'Dad's Army' squad looked a little cold and damp but did the full circuit as required.
Another good day for the Battery!
Thanks to Robbie, Fred, Andy, Dave and Steve!

BRIXHAM BATTERY - SCHOOL VISITS.

2010-11-30T06:04:00.000-08:00

November has been a very busy month here at the Battery with over 200 local Primary School pupils visiting as part of the WW2 curriculum. Galmpton, Eden Park and Chestnut Drive Schools came along and enjoyed the guided tours of the Battery museum, underground tunnel and War Shelter rooms plus the recently restored harbour defence pill-box. See photos.
Thanks to all members who helped out including veterans both service and military.
Top photo of Home Guardsman Andy Youngs manning the pill-box.

BRIXHAM BATTERY

2010-11-30T05:58:00.000-08:00

Many thanks to George for donating the British Army wireless set WS88 complete with metal instruction plate. See photo of set on our display mannequin.

BRIXHAM BATTERY - FUND RAISING.

2010-10-31T12:00:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to the owners and guests of Torquay's Frognel Hall Hotel for their kind donations following last nights 1940's themed party. The group raised over £100 which will go towards the on going War Shelter Restoration Project.
Special thanks to group members Andy and Marie Youngs, Dave Clarke, Steve Watkins for turning out in full kit (plus Andy's WW2 field medical exhibits).

BRIXHAM BATTERY - AIR RAIDS

2010-10-29T15:03:00.000-07:00

ON 17th September 1942 at 12.45pm 4 German aircraft attacked the Steam Tanker 'Daxhound' accompanied by Fairmile 'B' motor-launches ML 118 and ML 157 1 mile off Berry Head. Two FW 190'S of 10 JG 2 'Jabo' (Hunter) + 2 BF 109's missed the Daxhound but one bomb fell through the wheel house of one of the ML's and exploded in the sea.
Anti aircraft fire from the ML's shot down Staffelcapitain Hauptman Frank Liesendahl killed. Liesendahl was later awarded the Knights Cross.(4/9/42).
No allied casualties were reported.
Photos of ML 118 and Liesendahl's aircraft attached with the 'Jabo' badge.

BRIXHAM - MV BUESTEN

2010-10-27T15:09:00.000-07:00

On April 9th 1941 the Tanker MV Buesten was attacked by German HE 111's and sank 4 miles off Berry Head with the loss of 28 crew dead and 7 survivors.
The Bueston laid down in 1928 was carrying Benzene when she joined Convoy HX115 leaving Baytown Texas with her oil load bound for Southampton. She arrived in Plymouth on the 7th April and left port for Southampton on the 8th. During the day of the 9th she was repeatedly attacked by German aircraft finally succumbing to cannon fire, the ships gunners had warned off bomb runs form the Heinkels. The ship's decks were seen to burn furiously killing 28 of her crew with only 7 survivors all of whom arrived in Dartmouth.
Of the dead 2 were 16 year old mess boys Peter Forbes and Joseph Conlin. The gunners all killed were Thomas Hill, Joseph F Jones, Fred Chriswick, John Austin and Norman S Hughes. The rest of the crew were Norwegian with one Joseph Mangion a Motorman from Malta.

BRIXHAM BATTERY - SLAPTON SANDS

2010-10-26T10:29:00.001-07:00

GROUP MEMBER ROBBIE ROBINSON ACCOMPANIED PRINCESS ANNE LAST WEDNESDAY ON A REMEMBRANCE CRUISE FROM DARTMOUTH. THE PRINCESS LAID A WREATH IN MEMORY OF THE 749 US LIVES LOST DURING 'EXERCISE TIGER' IN APRIL 1944.
GERMAN E-BOATS INTERCEPTED THE TAIL END OF THE ASSAULT PRACTICE CONVOY AND SHOT UP THE US LST's.
ROBBIE GAVE A SHORT COMMENTARY OF THE HISTORIC EVENTS DURING THE CRUISE ON THE WARTIME FAIRMILE 'B' MOTOR LAUNCH FROM WHICH THE PRINCESS LAID THE WREATH.
PHOTOS OF THE FAIRMILE AT WAR AND PEACE. THE PRINCESS AND LST's MOORED IN BRIXHAM.

BRIXHAM BATTERY - Make a Difference Day.

2010-10-26T06:24:00.000-07:00

Photos from our CSV 'Make a Difference Day' Sunday October 24th at the Battery. Thanks to all who supported the day! Winston 'Dave Clarke', GI Steve Watkins, sniper Andrew White, Para Peter Bailey and Regimental Policeman Fred and ARP Warden Brian, NAAFI Wendy Parton, Sargeant Ivan Parton, Instructor Robbie Robinson to name but a few!
The day was a celebration of the 'power of volunteering' in Brixham - restoring and interpreting the 400 year history of the Coastal Artillery Battery at Brixham's Battery Gardens!
Thanks again.

BRIXHAM BATTERY - MAKE A DIFFERENCE DAY

2010-10-25T00:02:00.000-07:00

Sunday afternoon October 24th - CSV 'Make a Difference Day at the Battery with over 200 visitors donating £140 towards our 'War Shelter Restoration Appeal' fund. Thanks to all who supported the event. Special thanks to Dave Clarke 'Winston', Steve Watkins GI, Peter Bailey Para, Andy White sniper.
Wendy Parton NAAFI, Ivan Parton sarge, Robbie Robinson speaker, plus all others whose kind donations will enable us to open the shelter and tunnel to visitors from Easter 2012.
A good afternoons hard work by all!

BRIXHAM BATTERY - FILM NIGHT

2010-10-14T10:49:00.000-07:00

Photo's from the Crown Unit short films shown at last night's Battery film show.

BRIXHAM BATTERY - FILM NIGHT

2010-10-14T10:38:00.002-07:00

A very good evenings entertainment at last nights 'Crown Film Unit' movies watch organized by group member Rod Hart. Stills from some of the 'shorts' above. It's Great to be British!

BRIXHAM BATTERY - WEEKS EVENTS

2010-10-02T00:08:00.000-07:00

Busy week with the Coffee Morning + School visit. Attached photos of School visit - 63 pupils from a local Torbay Primary School and recent press cuttings.
Thanks to all who supported the day. And a big thank you to the school - the pupils were all very well informed and asked lots of questions.
Special thanks to Dave 'Winnie', Brian as Air Raid Warden, Steve as US Ranger and Steve Spencer as Royal Engineer in charge of Generator Room restoration (top photo).

BRIXHAM BATTERY - WAR SHELTER PROJECT

2010-09-26T15:06:00.000-07:00

Friday September 24th was spent welding the ventilation boxes onto the steel War Shelter Shutters. Thanks to Brixham Steel's Robert Coopman. Plus group members who turned up to assist in the days work. Another step nearer to opening the War Shelter and Tunnel to the public.
A big thank you to all who have supported the Appeal Fund. This is how we are spending the monies raised (now at £3,000)!

BRIXHAM BATTERY STEWARDS DAY OUT

2010-09-19T23:35:00.000-07:00

A great day out was had by all group members who went to Bovington Tank Museum, Dorset on Saturday. Thanks to Rod Hart for organizing the day. Good weather helped and having the guided tour which was excellent an added bonus.

BRIXHAM BATTERY - D-DAY MEMORIES

2010-09-16T11:50:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to Sharon Molyneux for donating her uncle's wartime D-Day maps and army documents for display in our museum.
John Page Young was born in 1919 near Liverpool. He was called up in 1939 and joined the Kings Regiment (Liverpool) as Motor Mechanic. Army Number 3774868.
After basic training John shipped out to Gibraltar with the 2nd Battalion serving under the 1st and 2nd Gibraltar Brigade.
Some time later John returned to the UK and joined the 5th Battalion when they located to Ayrshire for specialist training in preparation for the invasion of France, D-Day.
On the 5th June 1944 lance Corporal Young left the UK in a Landing Ship Tank heading for 'Sword Beach' . He was attached to the 'Beach Group' with the 3rd Infantry Division.
John served with the Kings Regiment (Liverpool) from 1940 until demob in 1946. He left the army following attendance at Number 7 Military Dispersal Unit, Manchester.
During the war John drove from his base in Liverpool to Inverness for training, then to Southampton for disembarkation to France. From Normandy John drove to Paris, Calais, Niimegen Holland, Dortmund, Munster, Hamburg, Kiel Germany then to Kolding in Denmark. From there he returned to the UK and civvie street.
After the war John worked for a Vauxhall Wagon Dealer returning to Germany for work related courses.
Please see attached photos. First is the Kings Regiment Cap Badge. 2nd John's call up paper 1939. 3rd Driver/Mechanic Young in Gibraltar 1940. 4th Pay Book, Driver's Certificate of Competence Gibraltar on Road Map of John's wartime tour! 5th Invasion map of Queen Beach Sector 'Sword' Beach D-Day 6th June 1944. Blue pen marks different sectors. John attacked Queen Red as part of the Beach Assault Group.

BRIXHAM BATTERY - HERITAGE OPEN DAYS

2010-09-12T23:54:00.000-07:00

Sunday - the last of the 4 Open Days proved to be a great success it having been a very good event for the Battery. Over 400 visitors donated around £250 towards our 'War Shelter Restoration' appeal fund.
Visitors enjoyed the Battery Museum and the guided tours of the 14 acre site plus the added bonus of visiting the underground ammunition tunnel and war shelter rooms.
We received many positive comments in our visitors book with well wishers hoping to see the tunnel and rooms fully restored for their next visit!
Photo of 'Winnie' bidding a fond farewell to all!!

BRIXHAM BATTERY - 3rd Heritage Open Day.

2010-09-11T14:02:00.000-07:00

Yet another very good day at the Battery. Visitors included veteran Battery Gnr. A H Wood of 'D' Company Royal Artillery attached 378 Coastal Artillery Battery HG 1943-45. Photos of Gnr Wood and group members plus visitors being shown how to tackle explosives with a stirrup pump!
Thanks to all who supported this afternoons event. As usual the PM turned up to lend his support.
First photo is of Private Gillin making sure the tunnel is clear of 'enemy' cave spiders.

BRIXHAM BATTERY - 2nd Hertage Open Day.

2010-09-11T00:17:00.000-07:00

Another very good day at the Battery! Plenty of very generous visitors who thoroughly enjoyed the museum and guided tours of Battery Grounds and underground tunnel and 'War Shelter Rooms'.
Thanks to all who supported the day.
Also thanks to Paul for sending us the photos of Stoke Gabriel Home Guard with names. An excellent addition for our Archive.

BRIXHAM BATTERY - HERITAGE DAYS

2010-09-09T14:54:00.000-07:00

Good first Heritage Open Day with plenty of visitors and the BBC filming for Spotlight all afternoon. Many thanks to all members who turned out for the day. Thanks to Robbie, Ivan, Rod, Brian, Phil, Steve, Dave. And the visitors.

BRIXHAM BATTERY - 1940's Do!

2010-09-05T02:51:00.000-07:00

A great evening was had by over 70 guests at last nights Brixham Battery Fund Raising 1940's Fancy Dress do!
Thanks to all who attended - including 'Silver Wings', Hanley Stolloway and Gang, NAAFI Crew and RCT Member Ivan and his red taxi!
Must do it again sometime, the URC Hall is a very good venue, thanks to Steve and Lynda!
All proceeds will go towards the costs of restoring the 'War Shelter' thanks again to all who supported this event.

BRIXHAM BATTERY - DONATED ITEMS

2010-09-02T02:40:00.000-07:00

Photos of some newly donated items to the Battery collection that will be put on display. Thanks to all who support the Battery Project in this way.
First photo is of Pay Books PB64 and Release Books X801 owned by Sergeant and Corporal (Byford) Partington.
Both served in the Army Records Office 1940-45 where they met and married in Bournmouth? during the war. Both were awarded Good Conduct Chevrons and the Defence Medal.
Middle photo is of WW1 Service Records of Able Seaman William Joseph Baber. William joined the Navy in 1912 signing up for 12 years. He was awarded the 1914/15 Star, War Medal and Victory Medal + 2 Good Conduct Badges. He served on HMS Dehli, Commonwealth, Ganges, Vivid, King Alfred, Bellerophon, Defiance, Aurora, Cicala. He was rated as Operator Whitehead Torpedo on 10th January 1919.
Top photo shows Victory Medal and War Medal awarded to J Harrington, Leading Fireman of the Mercantile Marine. Book is the Seaman's Pocket Book 1943 given to all RN Ratings.
Thanks again to all who support the Battery.

BRIXHAM BATTERY - WAR SHELTER CLEARANCE

2010-09-02T02:30:00.000-07:00

Wednesday evening saw 8 members + 3 trucks + 3 wheelbarrows remove all the post war concrete blocks from the floor of the War Shelter and tunnel entrance. It took one and a half hours of hard work to remove the block from the shelter to the back of the museum.
Thanks to all who took part - Simon and family + Ivan Parton + Tony Weller + Steve Watkins.
Top photo is of Jeff cutting through the concrete blocks before removal and interior of War Shelter gunners rooms.

BRIXHAM BATTERY - DARTMOUTH CASTLE

2010-08-31T00:26:00.000-07:00

More photos shot by group member Ade Pitman (US Press Corpsman). Note the reincarnation of PM Winston Churchill aka Dave Clarke.

BRIXHAM BATTERY - ATTENTION TUESDAY!

2010-08-26T22:35:00.000-07:00

Reliving Dartmouth Castle WW2 history with 361 Coastal Artillery Battery Home Guard attached Royal Artillery, ARP Warden Instructor defusing Incendiary Bombs, US Army 4th Infantry 'Ivy League' unit members, ATS Driver in attendance. German Army Identification with HG dressed as 'para'.

BRIXHAM BATTERY 'ATTENTION TUESDAY'

2010-08-26T14:30:00.001-07:00

PHOTOS OF DARTMOUTH CASTLE'S 'ATTENTION TUESDAY' WW2 LIVING HISTORY EVENT - FEATURING BRIXHAM BATTERY GROUP.
THANKS TO: HOME GUARDSMAN 2nd Lt. Phil Trayhorn, CSM Rob White, Private's Steve Spencer and Ed Gillin, Andrew White, Andrew Youngs.
ATS Marie Youngs.
US Army Press Officer's Ade Pitman, Steve Watkins.
LDV Robbie Robinson.
ARP Warden Ivan Parton.
PM 'Winnie' Dave Clarke.
A great day was had by all group members and over 700 visitors to the English Heritage Castle.

BRIXHAM BATTERY - ARCHIVE + ACTIVITIES

2010-08-21T09:46:00.000-07:00

10 DEVON HOME GUARD SHOULDER FLASH.
'UNCLE PERCY' UN-ROTATING ROCKET PROJECTOR BRIXHAM BATTERY.
BOFORS CREW BRIXHAM BATTERY 1943.

BRIXHAM BATTERY ARCHIVE - Gnr. Warren.

2010-08-21T09:42:00.000-07:00

BRIXHAM BATTERY ARCHIVE.

2010-08-21T09:31:00.000-07:00

Archive photos of Gunner Sydney Warren 362 Battery Southern Command Heavy Coastal Battery Brixham 1940.
Photos show Sydney's pay book, discharge certificate, medals and photos of him as Gunner and Officer.
Thanks to Mrs Warren, his wife of Brixham.
Other photo of Brixham Battery Living History Group on Babbacombe Down showing off some memorabilia.
Map of the Battery as Sydney would have known it.

BRIXHAM BATTERY EVENTS UPDATE.

2010-08-21T01:19:00.001-07:00

BRIXHAM BATTERY HAVE BEEN BUSY OVER THE PAST FEW DAYS. GROUP MEMBERS HAVE BEEN ENGAGED IN RESTORATION AND HISTORIC INTERPRETATION.
THE WAR SHELTER PROJECT PROGRESSES WELL WITH £1800 DONATED SO FAR.
WE CONTINUE TO WORK ON THE PROJECT (SEE PHOTOS) AND HAVE HAD GOOD PRESS COVERAGE.
MEMBERS HAVE ALSO ATTENDED 'VETERANS DAYS' IN THE BAY, AS WELL AS OTHER LOCAL EVENTS INCLUDING 'PAIGNTON REGATTA FIREWORKS DISPLAY - ITS THEME THE 70th ANNIVERSARY OF THE BLITZ.
MEMORABILIA AS ALSO CONTINUED TO COME INTO THE MUSEUM FOR DISPLAY AS HAS ARCHIVE MATERIAL FOR COPY AND DOCUMENTATION.
THANKS TO ALL WHO SUPPORT THE BATTERY PROJECT.
PLEASE NOTE THAT OUR NEXT FUND RAISER IS ON SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 4th '1940's' Fancy dress do at the Untited Reform Church Hall, Brixham (opposite the Town Hall) for 7.30pm.
Tickets £3.00 at the door and please BYO.

BERRY HEAD ROC POST 57

2010-08-01T10:19:00.000-07:00

Brixham Battery members manned the Royal Observer Corps Post 57 on Berry Head today. Mike Ford, Steve Watkins plus veteran ROC members Chris and Karol re-enacted the ROC defence role as would have been seen on the head during both WW2 and the Cold War period.
Thanks to Emma Reece of the Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust.

DARTMOUTH CASTLE WW2 EVENT

2010-07-26T15:12:00.000-07:00

PLEASE NOTE THE DATE FOR DARTMOUTH CASTLE's WW2 EVENT FEATURING BRIXHAM BATTERY IS ON TUESDAY AUGUST 24th 2010. TIME 10-am - 5pm.
Please support our group and attend in full ww2 uniform.
THANKS.

BRIXHAM BATTERY

2010-07-23T23:10:00.000-07:00

BRIXHAM BATTERY IS NOW OPEN:
SUNDAY, MONDAY, THURSDAY AND FRIDAY AFTERNOONS BETWEEN 2pm and 4pm.
Free entry to all.
Enjoy our guided tours of the 14 acre Battery Gardens site.
Lovely views from the gardens previously known as the 'Grandstand of Torbay'.

Brixham Battery - War Shelter Restoration Appeal

2010-07-13T04:04:00.000-07:00

Update on Battery Group activities: We have launched our 'WAR SHELTER RESTORATION APPEAL'.
The group need to raise £6,000 to repair and restore both war shelter rooms and 30m underground tunnel.
We have so far fund raised £1,250 from coffee mornings, BBQ's and donations.
Please see photos of recent activities that include restoration, school visits, group visit to Normandy and fund raising events.
Please contact hiightrees@tiscali.co.uk for more information on how you can help the group raise more money for our Appeal.

Brixham Battery D-Day Event.

2010-06-08T00:27:00.000-07:00

A good week end was had by all. Saturday's fund raising coffee morning made £250 and the D-Day Event a further £250. Money towards the repair and restoration of the Battery War Shelter and repair of the vandalised Bofors Gun.
Thanks to all who turned up on a glorious sunny day. Thanks to the Devon Military Vehicle Club for their visit along with ww2 jeeps and staff car. Thanks to singers 'Silver Wings' and 'Jigger Smith' who entertained all during the afternoon.
Special thanks to the pilots of the ww2 spotter planes who flew over the Battery during the afternoon. History brought to life!

BRIXHAM BATTERY WALK

2010-06-02T15:07:00.000-07:00

More photos of Saturday Fund Raising Charity Walk organized by Group Member Ade Pitman.

'EXERCISE TIGER' MEMORIAL WALK.

2010-06-01T01:10:00.000-07:00

Six group members dressed as US G.I's walked from the Sherman tank at Torcross to Dartmouth on Saturday May 29th in memory of those lost during the night of April 28th 1944. 749 US serviceman most from the 4th Infantry Division died when at 2.30am their convoy was attacked by German E-boats operating out of Cherbourg. Two LST's were sunk with a third severely damaged.
The squad help raise £1.200 for the BLESMA charity.
Thanks to all those who supported our efforts with special thanks to Ade Pitman - organizer.

WAR SHELTER APPEAL

2010-05-13T00:40:00.000-07:00

PLEASE SUPPORT OUR 'WAR SHELTER RESTORATION APPEAL' The group are aiming at raising £6,000 for a full repair and restoration of the 30m underground tunnel and two gun crew rooms. Both rooms and tunnel were bricked up in 1947. We gained permission from English Heritage to remove the post war block work and put a steel blast door and shutters in place.
We now have to repair the interior, plaster the walls, put back the wood work, repaint and rewire.
Both tunnel and rooms are in remarkably good state. Heat and light will be from an internal 'silent generator.
We wish to restore the area as it was in September 1940 when Britain stood alone against threatened Nazi invasion.
Once complete the shelter and tunnel will be open to visitors free of charge during our guided tours of the Battery.
Donations can be sent payable to
'BRIXHAM BATTERY CENTRE'
c/o THE HON. SEC.
CARINA
HIGHER FURZEHAM ROAD
BRIXHAM
TQ5 8QP
JOIN OUR GROUP FOR £5.00 AND THE MONEY WILL GO TO THE APPEAL FUND.
THANKS.

Facebook | Phil Trayhorn

2010-05-11T15:00:00.000-07:00

Facebook | Phil Trayhorn