How did the Second World War affect Glastonbury?

The Glastonbury War Book can be described as a survival manual for the town in the face of war. It was written by the Town Council’s Invasion Committee to offer resistance to the enemy in case of invasion and resilience to potential hardships imposed by the Second World War. It is being published by the Town Council as part of the commemorations for VE Day 80 years ago.

The War Book offers a picture of the past, casting a new light on Glastonbury and showing how affairs were organised: from housing evacuees and arranging fire guards, to bomb shelters, transport and supplying food.

The introduction focuses on the role of the council in protecting Glastonbury and putting their plans into action. We follow the ups and downs of its journey from 1941 through to the end of the war and VE Day.

Glastonbury Town Council is proud to be involved with The Glastonbury War Book as part of our VE Day 80 commemorations. This document is a powerful reminder of the town’s preparedness, resilience, and collective effort during one of the most challenging periods in our history. By sharing it with the community, we honour those who contributed to Glastonbury’s wartime story and ensure their legacy is not forgotten.

About the author – Mary Claridge wrote about the first world war in Glastonbury called Glastonbury’s Other Legacy: stories of the town in the first world war. A second edition is forthcoming.

If you wish to purchase a copy they are available at the Glastonbury Information Centre and the Glastonbury Tribunal for £5.00.