Information for new evacuees to Stibbington

All evacuees are advised to carry their identity card and gas mask at all times. Checks are being made regularly for spies and a gas attack could happen at any time.

There is an air base a few miles away from Stibbington and so it is quite likely that you will hear aeroplanes overhead. If you are not sure whether they are German or British aircraft you should flatten yourself against the ground until the danger has passed.

The trains will be busy transporting troops and food up and down the country so it is unlikely you will receive a visit from your parents.  It is likely that your father will be fighting in the war and your mother will be working in the factories.

Wansford railway station is being used as a collection point for scrap metal and bones. The scrap metal will be melted down and made into Spitfires and tanks for the war effort. The bones will be ground up and used as padding in bullets.

Food is being rationed so any waste food must now be fed to the pigs not to the birds. Everyone is being encouraged to grow their own food and the Women’s Land Army has been organised to provide workers on farms where help is needed.  It is feared that ships carrying food may be bombed by submarines when crossing the Atlantic.  The school playing field is being dug up to make space for vegetable plots.  The boys will be expected to help tend them.

The blackout must be observed rigidly and no light must escape from any house at night time in case German aeroplanes are flying overhead. The air raid warden will patrol to make sure the blackout is kept. He will also give the alert should there be a gas attack.

Clothing coupons are available for essential clothes but it is advisable to make do and mend.  Girls will be expected to be able to sew.

Should there be an invasion the church bells will sound and evacuees are to return to their guardians’ houses.