Monument record 7113/0/1 - WWII bombing decoy, south-west of Woodford

A Second World War bombing decoy site south-west of Woodford. It was built as part of the 'C-series' of civil decoys for Kettering to deflect enemy bombing. This was a 'QL' decoy which replicated the area by simulating the lights of the 'Islip Factory'. The site is referenced as being in use between 1942 and 1943 at least.

{2} The report gazetteer makes specific reference to this C Series (civil) decoy (a QL site) on p128 & 135. The report also contains detailed descriptions of the decoy type (summarised in part 4 of this report). The QL target was Kettering, 'Islip factory' with MY lights, factory lights and loco glows at the QL decoy. The QL site identified in the gazetteer as being in use at least 2.10.1942 - 1.5.1943. Note that site decoy was one of two for Kettering, the other being at Cranford for Kettering station.

{1}'QL' site, to simulate specific targets by night (QL lights) for Kettering (with another QL & QF site at Cranford). These were smaller decoys than the Starfish during WW2. Further details of the operation of QL & QF sites in Gibson p89-90.

<1> Gibson M.L., 1982, Aviation In Northamptonshire: An Illustrated History, (unchecked) (Book). SNN100276.

<2> DOBINSON C.S., 1996, TWENTIETH CENTURY FORTIFICATIONS IN ENGLAND: BOMBING DECOYS OF WORLD WAR TWO, (unchecked) (Uncertain). SNN44391.

Record last edited

Apr 16 2021 9:24AM