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THE LAND WE LEFT BEHIND
- by Robin Rose-Price &
Jean Parnell
In November 1943 the people of Strete, Blackawton,
Chillington, East Allington, Frogmore, Sherford, Slapton,
Stokenham and Torcross were told to leave their homes. In a matter
of weeks all possessions, farm animals and pets had to be moved
before the arrival of American servicemen. What local people
didn't realise at the time was that this wasn't simply for routine
war training: it was the beginning of practice manoeuvres that
would culminate in D Day on June 6th 1944.
"The Land We Left Behind" is a new book by local historians Robin
Rose-Price and Jean Parnell. It charts the remarkable events of
those dark days.
With more than ninety photographs, maps and diagrams this book
gives a fascinating insight into the events that led up to a
momentous moment in history. There are numerous personal
recollections of what happened and how it happened and a facsimile
of an extraordinary booklet issued to American servicemen, "A
Short Guide to Great Britain" which informs us that: "British
police are proud of being able to answer almost any question under
the sun. They're not in a hurry and they'll take plenty of time to
talk to you."
Take a peep below at a few of the pictures - our villages are
proud of this book and very much hope you will want to own a copy.
The Land We Left Behind is published by Orchard publications and
costs £5.95. To find out how to order call or fax 0044 (0)1803
770587. The 0044 prefix is for callers outside the UK (delete the
bracketed zero) particularly, we hope, our American cousins!
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Hay-ricks were protected with thatch
in the hope that they would survive until the farmers were able to
return to their farm. Root crops had to be dug up and many other tasks
were carried out. |
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Much discussion took place about the
evacuation at the Kings Arms in Strete. Behind the bar are the landlord,
Alf Britnell and his wife and Fred Horton. Amongst those on the other
side of the bar are Mr Goodman and Nat Veasey. |
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Stokenham Church and the Church
House Inn were badly damaged during exercises. |
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Every type of transport available
was used to move the villagers' belongings as the residents of
Blackawton moved out. Special petrol coupons were made available so that
vehicles could make as many return journeys as necessary to empty the
houses. |
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Wave after
wave of soldiers were landed
on the beach before forcing their way inland. |
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