Church was victim of bombing in 1941

Published: 9:05 AM February 5, 2010 Updated: 9:42 PM October 10, 2020

DOWSED in water and a shadow of its former self, this picture of Pakefield Church shows the damage that was caused when bombs hit in 1941.The church's entire roof structure was destroyed and most of the internal furnishings were rendered unusable when two incendiary bombs hit the thatched roof of All Saints' and St Margaret's Church on April 21 that year.

DOWSED in water and a shadow of its former self, this picture of Pakefield Church shows the damage that was caused when bombs hit in 1941.

The church's entire roof structure was destroyed and most of the internal furnishings were rendered unusable when two incendiary bombs hit the thatched roof of All Saints' and St Margaret's Church on April 21 that year.

The church was restored after much hard work from the people of Pakefield and on January 29, 1950, it was rededicated.

Last month a special Songs of Praise service took place to celebrate the 60th anniversary of that re-dedication.

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After reading the report in The Journal, Glyn Powell, from Gunton, hunted through his postcard collection for an image of the church.

'I came across a card which shows the actual damage. On the reverse of the card are the words 'All Saints and St Margaret's, Pakefield. Destroyed by Enemy Action, 21st April 1941, Rebuilt 1950,' said Mr Powell.

'The card also shows a Church Army canteen van, registration BVB 426. This would seem to be at the scene of the fire, as the van is distributing drinks to a fireman.'

Anyone from All Saints' and St Margaret's Church who would like a copy of the photo should email glynpowell183@btinternet.com