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Although war with Germany was not declared until September 3, 1939, this barrage balloon was pictured, flying over Bass’ recreation ground, Derby, in March that year.

It was the first one to be launched in the town and was a sign that Britain was already preparing for war. Rumours of the build-up of Germany’s military strength had been circulating for months with Winston Churchill, labelled a warmonger, urging the Government to step up our own arms production.

On March 15, Churchill’s warnings were borne out when Germany invaded Czechoslovakia and, six days later, Hitler demanded that the Poles should hand over the city of Danzig.

In April, Italy invaded and occupied Albania and, by July, Winston Churchill was urging the Government to form a military alliance with the Soviet Union.

The Government hesitated and within a month Stalin and Hitler had signed the Nazi-Soviet Pact.

On September 1, Germany invaded Poland and annexed Danzig and, two days later, Britain and France declared war on Germany.

Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain appointed Winston Churchill as First Lord of the Admiralty and the National Services (Armed Forces) Act was passed, starting the call-up process.

What are your memories of the build-up to the declaration of war in 1939? How were you affected? Why not add your memories by going to the Discussion link above.

• The 'Stories Behind The Pictures'

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County:  Derbyshire

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