St Paul’s Cathedral has launched an appeal to the public as it prepares to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the ending of the Second World War next year.
The Cathedral plans to hold special series of events including an exhibition, lecture and national commemorative service in honour of the occasion in 2025 - which also marks the 60th anniversary of Sir Winston Churchill’s state funeral at St Paul’s.
It has launched an appeal for anyone involved in helping protect the world-famous building from being destroyed by German bombs to get in touch, so their stories may be shared and celebrated.
As a major landmark, St Paul’s was targeted by the Luftwaffe during the Second World War.
At the height of the Blitz then-prime minister Sir Winston Churchill made a rallying cry to Londoners, saying: “At all costs, St Paul’s must be saved”.
A group of around 200 volunteers stepped forward to form The St Paul’s Watch - carrying out a 24/7 fire watch on the building, sometimes during intense bombing campaigns.
Dean of St Paul’s, Andrew Tremlett, said: “The members of the Watch used sandbags and water pumps, and the Cathedral was hit by two bombs during the Blitz, yet its miraculous survival became a symbol of national defiance.”
Now, the Cathedral wants to celebrate the “incredible” stories of those involved at the time, to mark the 80th anniversary of V-E Day next year.
“Some of these stories are recorded, but there are many stories that remain untold, and these will be held in the memories of families across London and, potentially, the world,” said the Very Revd Andrew Tremlett.
“We would love to hear from anyone who had family members connected with the Cathedral in some way, whether they actively participated or had a connection through events during the wartime period.
“The public exhibition – which we are planning to hold around ‘The People’s Memorial’ outside St Paul’s - is focused on sharing “people” stories: volunteers of the Watch, plus anyone connected with St Paul’s Cathedral in the Second World War.
“This could also include people who worshipped or sought sanctuary at the Cathedral during the War, and people who lived or worked in the neighbourhood during the London Blitz.
“We want to share their wartime experiences – and celebrate their dedication and bravery in protecting the Cathedral.
“We want the exhibition to present as diverse a group of people as possible – the Watch comprised around 200 people from different backgrounds – women of the Watch, Afro-British, Asian or other Anglo-ethnic volunteers, and also international allies – volunteers from other nations, including North American servicemen and women.”
If you have any contacts or can help, email wwiianniversary@stpaulscathedral.org.uk.
