An ARP warden inspects the emblem on a grounded Heinkel bomber

An ARP warden inspects the emblem on a grounded Heinkel bomber

Buy a copy

For prints:
Contact Merton Heritage Service. Tel.020 8545 3239 Email:

Date Photo Taken 2nd October 1940
Area Mitcham
Picture Reference Mit_​War_​9-1
Original Format Photo
Notes / History This was one of the numerous grounded enemy aircraft displayed throughout the country to raise funds for the RAF. Members of the public paid a small fee to get a closer look at the plane and it's interior. The emblem on the fuselage depicts a German eagle tearing at the head of a sorry looking British lion.

ARP wardens like the one shown in this photograph were appointed under the Air Raid Precautions (ARP) Act 1938 which required local authorities to run emergency ambulance services, to man first aid posts and to run rescue, repair and demolition services.

ARP wardens were also responsible for handing out gas masks and pre-fabricated air raid shelters such as Anderson Shelters. A small number of the wardens were paid employees but most were part-time volunteers who carried out their ARP work as well as full-time jobs.

Related items

Comments

* Required field