Cheltenham at war - Peter Gill

During the Second World War photographic film was rationed and photography was strictly controlled. Despite these limitations it is surprising how many pictures of the war years have survived, often hidden away in photograph albums or school and company archives, never seen by the general public. Cheltenham at War, however, brings together over two hundred of these unique images. Well-researched captions put the photographs in context, and contain many fascinating details of life during the war. The emphasis throughout Cheltenham at War is on people - despairing at the bomb damage, pulling together in salvage campaigns and rejoicing at the victory that followed. Schools were evacuated, evacuees and prisoners of war arrived and there was even a mock invasion, but a semblance of normality was maintained: for example, football and cricket teams still competed and weddings took place. These events are also recorded here. This book will evoke nostalgic memories for all who spent their war years in the town, and will be of interest to everyone who knows and loves Cheltenham.