Air Raids
Enemy raider strikes golf course
On 2nd August 1940, Stonehaven woke up to the sound of enemy air strikes.
Nine high explosives and approximately 40 incendiary bombs were dropped within a mile of Stonehaven. They landed on the golf course and other different open areas in the early hours of Friday morning.
One bomb created a massive hole in the golf course but amazingly no windows were broken or injuries accrued. Another bomb that landed just opposite the clubhouse left two craters, one crater being 10ft deep and 30ft across.
The incendiary bombs were dropped first. These fell close to a bay popular with picnic parties and amazingly they caused absolutely no damage.
Stonehaven's home front fight with the Luftwaffe
In 1940 Stonehaven was becoming increasingly aware of the threat posed by an air attack.
On Sunday 18th February, a major ARP test took place in the town. The purpose of this was to make sure all the different services were prepared for when an actual air raid would take place.
During the ARP test, there were six wardens who each had a sealed envelope. Inside the envelope, a note told them an accident had happened and where it took place. The wardens then reported to the control room, asking for the Emergency Services that they needed, eg an ambulance for casualties buried beneath debris.
Umpires said Stonehaven had achieved 95% efficiency in the test. Only six months later, Stonehaven woke up to the sound of real enemy air strikes and the ARP volunteers were called to help.
|
