‘The declaration of war won't stop Clacton's normal summer season next year.' That was the view of those whose business was promoting and providing the town's seaside attractions. Since it was founded in 1871, with the construction of the pier and the subsequent building development, the town's whole purpose was to provide the British public with a holiday resort.

From September 3rd 1939 this country was at war with Nazi Germany, but Clacton was still planning for the 1940 season. A drifting German mine in February 1940 hit the pier and exploded, causing considerable damage, and in April the deaths of the first civilians in England occurred when a German mine laying plane crashed on Victoria Road. The following day, the national newspaper headlines reported the event with the name of Clacton prominent, the unwanted publicity being much to the annoyance of local traders.

Finally, the evacuation of the B.E.F. from Dunkirk, the real threat of invasion, and the town being declared a ‘Restricted Military Place' all confirmed that the 1940 summer season would not take place. Five long years of war were ahead before Clacton could once again provide its seaside attractions for visitors.