After the German invasion of Poland, The King declared war in September 1939.
In preparation for war, Britain undertakes measures including calling up of troops, citizens returning home from abroad, children rehearsing safety drills. The government also thought of all the possible dangers and difficulties the Home Front would face and started to take precautions.
Boys release toy balloons bearing appeals for the Doctor Barnardo’s Home at Stepney, London, August 1939
Take a look at life in Britain in 1939 through these fascinating black and white photographs taken by Gerry Cranham:
The ladies’ rifle team of Downe House School in Berkshire set out for a practice session with their guns, April 1939
Boys of the Duke of York’s Military School at Dover dressed as toy soldiers, April 1939
Notices have been posted outside public buildings calling upon those men eligible, to register for military training under the Military Training Act, May 1939
The under-15 Harp Solo contest, part of the Eisteddfod Festival, in Denbeigh, August 1939
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