The first bombs fell on the town on 6th
July 1940 and the first shell, fired from the long-range
guns built by the Germans on the cliffs of Calais, fell
on 12th August. Many of the remaining civilians took
shelter in caves deep within the cliffs.
Between July 1940 and September 1944
2,226 shells landed on the town and 686 in the surrounding
areas. Hundreds more burst in the air or landed in the
harbour. 464 high explosive bombs and three parachute
mines fell on the town.
3,059 air raid alerts were sounded
in the town. A total of 10,056 buildings were damaged,
of which 957 were destroyed and 2,914 severely damaged.
216 civilians were killed, 344 severely injured and
416 slightly injured.
The last shell fell on Dover at 7:15pm
on 26th September 1944, after which the guns at Calais
were captured by the advancing Allies and finally fell
silent. On 18th October King George VI and Queen Elizabeth
visited the town to pay tribute to Dover's fortitude
throughout more than four years of shelling and bombing.
|
|
Where the bombs and shells fell:
Click the map for a larger version.
|
