Dover commemorates 70th anniversary of last shell to fall

The Chairman of Dover District Council, Cllr Sue Nicholas, has hosted a commemoration to mark the 70th anniversary of the last shell to fall on the town during World War II. The event was held at the Dover Gateway on Friday (26 September 2014) marking the spot where 70 years ago to the day the last shell fell on 26 September 1944 at 7.15pm on Hubbard's umbrella manufacturers in Castle Street.

Dover became known as 'Hellfire Corner' during WWII due its proximity to the French Coast and the almost daily bombardments by German long range guns. Hundreds of civilians and service men and women were killed during four years of bombardment and aerial attack, with thousands of buildings damaged across the district.

Dover Museum has arranged a special exhibition which will be on display at the Dover Gateway to mark the 70th anniversary.

Terry Sutton MBE, Honorary Freeman of Dover, attended the event to recall the shelling of Dover, whilst cadets from 354 (Dover) Air Training Squadron read memoirs from townsfolk. The Bishop of Dover, the Right Reverend Trevor Willmott led a short service of prayer.

Cllr Sue Nicholas, Chairman of Dover District Council, said: "It is fitting that we mark the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the last shell to fall on Dover, and remember the sacrifice of the many service men and women, and townsfolk, who lost so much during the 'Hellfire Corner' years."