Post by 2e0edx on Jul 6, 2014 12:27:34 GMT
In Lancashire, the main invasion threat was from a German occupation of Ireland. The flat sandy beaches of Lancashire were viewed as ideal landing grounds. The Leeds Liverpool canal was fortified because of the proximity to the coast some seven miles to the west and defence positions were sited along its east banks. This was known as the Leeds Liverpool canal Stop Line. Further defences were built at crossing points on other waterways throughout west Lancashire
My first activation of a World War 11 anti invasion pillbox will be in my home town of Blackpool at Salisbury Woodland Park on the entrance road to Blackpool Zoo and next to the golf course. This pillbox is a Type 22 and was constructed in 1940 as a lookout post to protect the Blackpool Municipal airport located at what is now the zoo. The airport was commandeered by the RAF in 1939. As can be seen by the plaque below this pillbox is part of the Blackpool Civic Trust Heritage Trail.
This pillbox door has been sealed so viewing is through the windows. A statue of a Homeguard soldier has been placed on top recently as also the blue information plaque. The Zoo is on the site of the original municipal airport before it was moved to Squires Gate. The old hangers are still used by the Zoo as is the original tower and passenger terminal which is now the Elephant house. During the war it was used for aircraft storage and the assembly of Wellingtons.
CASHOTA Ref:G457
WAB:SD33
Loc: IO83LT
I would hope to activate this pillbox on an evening next week on VHF possible HF SSB also. Details to follow.
73's
Ian
2E0EDX
My first activation of a World War 11 anti invasion pillbox will be in my home town of Blackpool at Salisbury Woodland Park on the entrance road to Blackpool Zoo and next to the golf course. This pillbox is a Type 22 and was constructed in 1940 as a lookout post to protect the Blackpool Municipal airport located at what is now the zoo. The airport was commandeered by the RAF in 1939. As can be seen by the plaque below this pillbox is part of the Blackpool Civic Trust Heritage Trail.
Type 22 Pillbox at Blackpool
This pillbox door has been sealed so viewing is through the windows. A statue of a Homeguard soldier has been placed on top recently as also the blue information plaque. The Zoo is on the site of the original municipal airport before it was moved to Squires Gate. The old hangers are still used by the Zoo as is the original tower and passenger terminal which is now the Elephant house. During the war it was used for aircraft storage and the assembly of Wellingtons.
CASHOTA Ref:G457
WAB:SD33
Loc: IO83LT
I would hope to activate this pillbox on an evening next week on VHF possible HF SSB also. Details to follow.
73's
Ian
2E0EDX
