When the wraith of the Reich rained down on South Shields

Last weekend a poignant service was held in South Shields to pay tribute to the people who lost their lives 75 years ago during an air raid on the town.

By The Newsroom

Published 13th Oct 2016, 14:01 BST

Updated 25th Oct 2016, 17:57 BST

This air raid caused extensive damage in Barrington Street.

The attack by the German Luftwaffe on the night of October 2, 1941, claimed the lives of 68 people and caused serious injuries to 117 others.

To mark the anniversary, a service of remembrance took place at St Hilda’s Church last Sunday.

A policeman in the bomb-ravaged Market Place.

Today we feature a selection of photos showing the extent of the damage and destruction caused by that and other air raids.

Next week we feature a series of articles written by local historian Dorothy Ramser which tells the tale of a local lad who witnessed the destruction – and decided to strike back at the enemy in dramatic style.

South Shields