Early Closing Day - Air Raids on Reading in WW2 Talk
with Mike Cooper
Forty-one people were killed by just four bombs during Reading’s only fatal air raid on 10th February 1943. Most of the fatalities occurred in The People’s Pantry, a popular restaurant at 175 Friar Street, staffed by the Women’s Voluntary Service. It provided cheap and nutritious meals for an affordable price to supplement rations and was demolished. Had it not been early closing day in Reading the casualties would have most likely been even greater. We commemorate its 80th anniversary this year and remember its victims and their families.
Before that the town had been bombed around ten times, and this is an account of how Reading prepared for air attack, and what can be told of the air raids themselves.
Pre-booking is required, because the event link will be sent in advance. Talk fee includes tea/coffee and cake afterwards.
2 - 3.30pm
About Berkshire Family History Society
This talk is organised by Berkshire Family History Society, a registered charity number 283010.
