The night skies of World War II were a theatre of terror, illuminated by the deadly dance of bomber streams and the fiery destruction they wrought. In the desperate struggle for survival, Britain turned to ingenious deception, and one of its most remarkable stratagems was Operation Starfish. This ambitious project aimed to divert German bombers from their intended targets, safeguarding vital industrial cities and infrastructure.
The Shadow of Coventry:
The catalyst for Operation Starfish was the devastating blitz on Coventry in November 1940. The near-total destruction of this historic city underscored the Luftwaffe's relentless efficiency and the urgent need for effective countermeasures. Colonel John Turner, a visionary engineer, conceived the idea of creating elaborate decoy sites that would mimic the appearance of burning cities from the air.
The Starfish Strategy:
These decoy sites, known as "Starfish" sites, were strategically located approximately four miles from targeted urban areas. They were designed to replicate the chaos and inferno of a bombing raid. The ingenious method involved a network of metal troughs laid through the surrounding fields, filled with a volatile mixture of creosote, coal, and diesel oil. When German bombers approached, these troughs would be ignited, creating a convincing illusion of a city ablaze. After a carefully timed interval, typically around 15 minutes, water would be added to the burning mixture, producing a dramatic explosion and a towering burst of flame. This spectacle was intended to convince the overhead bombers that they had successfully hit their target, prompting them to release their remaining payloads on the decoy site rather than the intended city.
Sowerby's Secret Role:
In the heart of West Yorkshire, the landscape surrounding Sowerby played a crucial role in this deception. The Sowerby Starfish site was specifically designed to protect the industrial cities of Manchester and Leeds, as well as the vital railway goods yards at Greetland, Halifax, Todmorden, Littleborough, and Rochdale. These railway hubs were critical for transporting supplies and munitions, making them prime targets for German bombers.
A Glimpse into the Past:
Today, the physical remnants of Sowerby's Starfish site are sparse, but a tangible link to this clandestine operation remains: a two-room bunker. This sturdy structure, accessed through a short passage protected by a blast wall, stands as a silent testament to the ingenuity and determination of those who worked to protect their communities. The lack of extensive surface evidence speaks to the secrecy surrounding these operations, a necessity in wartime.
A Visual Record:
The accompanying photographs, captured on June 16, 2015, with a Polaroid is2132 bridge camera, offer a visual glimpse into the present-day landscape of the Sowerby site. While the fields may appear tranquil, they hold the echoes of a dramatic and vital chapter in British wartime history.
The Legacy of Deception:
Operation Starfish was a testament to the power of strategic deception. It played a significant role in diverting German bombers, saving countless lives and protecting critical infrastructure. The sites, like the one at Sowerby, represent a fascinating blend of engineering ingenuity and wartime necessity. While the physical scars may have faded, the story of Operation Starfish remains a compelling reminder of the resourcefulness and resilience displayed during one of history's darkest periods.
Further Exploration:
For those interested in learning more about Operation Starfish, further research into Colonel John Turner's work and the broader context of British wartime deception is highly recommended. Local historical societies and archives may also hold valuable information about the specific role of the Sowerby site.
