Appeal for WW2 information at Arne peninsula

As part of an exciting new project funded by English Heritage, the RSPB is trying to find out more about the part Arne played in the Second World War and is appealing to the public for help.

As RSPB Archaeologist Robin Standring says, “The heaths on the Arne peninsula in Poole Harbour had a very significant role during World War 2. – both in local defence and in the preparations for the invasion of France.

“Arne Hill had a heavy anti-aircraft gun emplacement, command post and search light built on it to intercept German bombers targeting nearby Poole and local factories. Wartime planners had identified the vulnerability of the Holton Heath cordite factory (producing explosives) so they mocked up a fake factory on Arne as a night time ‘bombing decoy’ - the craters from the subsequent bombing raids now form many of the wildlife ponds here!”

In addition to this, boats were moored off Shipstal Point in preparation for the D-Day landings; the metal strops are still in evidence today as you walk along the nature trail over the cliffs.

As part of remembrance weekend, the RSPB at Arne is holding an event on Saturday 7 November from 10am–4pm looking at Arne during World War 2.

As Arne Information Officer, Lexi Hollinshead says, “It’s a chance for any one with memories, stories, letters, photographs or other memorabilia of Arne during World War 2 to come along and share them. Maybe you were posted on Arne Hill during the war or know someone who was? Then we would love to hear from you.”

There will also be some displays and information on Arne during WW2, including some artefacts from a German bomber that crashed onto the site and guided walks taking place throughout the day to look at the gun emplacement and command bunker.

If you cannot make this event but do have information to share please give the Arne nature reserve office a ring on 01929 553360.