Islands at War

This episode delves into part 2 of our discussion of  December 1942 in the Channel Islands during the German occupation. It explores the plight of slave workers, the experiences of local residents, the impact of war on daily life, and the German control and surveillance measures in place. The discussion also touches on incidents of violence, transportation challenges, military engagements, and the resilience of the community amidst adversity. The speakers reflect on the historical significance of these events and their implications for understanding the occupation period.

• The Reverend Ord documented the dire conditions of slave workers.
• Local residents witnessed the suffering of displaced individuals.
• The Germans implemented strict surveillance on hotels and boarding houses.
• Violence and crime increased during the occupation, often attributed to desperate conditions.
• Transportation was severely limited, impacting daily life and commerce.
• Charcoal-burning buses were introduced but were not very effective.
• Military engagements included air attacks that affected local communities.
• Community members often had to barter for food and clothing due to shortages.
• The historical context of the occupation reveals the complexities of life during wartime.
• Reflections on these events provide insights into the resilience of the community.

We also talked about the loss of two Whirlwinds during a convoy attack which you can find here.

** Breaking News**   Islands at War are delighted to be invited to the the Imperial War Museum London to record a live episode of the show as part of their Podcast Live Festival.  It takes place on 1 November 2025  details on the link here.

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You can find out more about the occupation on Nick’s website Island Fortress  here.

Thanks to Gnet Radio for recording the podcast and thanks to Jim Delbridge for the use of his song ‘5 to 7’ as our theme.

In this episode of Islands at War, hosts Keith Pengelley and Nick Le Huray delve into the complexities of life in Guernsey during the German occupation in December 1942. They discuss the establishment of prohibited zones, the registration of local labour for German work, and the pervasive rumours of German withdrawal. The conversation also touches on the economic challenges faced by the islanders, including supply shortages and the rise of the black market. As Christmas approaches, the hosts reflect on the struggles of families to celebrate amidst scarcity, and the ongoing efforts to control communication and information flow by the occupying forces.

Takeaways

• The establishment of prohibited zones was a significant military strategy.
• Local labour registration was a contentious issue during the occupation.
• Rumours of German withdrawal circulated widely among the islanders.
• Supply increases were often misleading and did not reflect true availability.
• The black market thrived due to resource scarcity and economic pressures.
• Christmas in 1942 was marked by hardship and creativity in celebrations.
• Wireless communication remained a point of control for the Germans.
• The Germans used fear tactics to maintain control over the population.
• Local responses to German policies varied, with some pushing back against labour demands.

The impact of the occupation on daily life was profound and multifaceted.

So much to talk about that has often been overlooked, covered here and in part two which will follow.

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You can find out more about the occupation on Nick’s website Island Fortress  here.

Thanks to Gnet Radio for recording the podcast and thanks to Jim Delbridge for the use of his song ‘5 to 7’ as our theme.

Nick speaks to 95 year old Olive Hamon. This conversation explores the experiences of individuals during the evacuation and occupation of Guernsey during World War II. It delves into personal stories of hardship, resilience, and the impact of war on families. The discussion highlights the roles of women, the humour found amidst adversity, and the lasting legacy of these experiences.

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You can find out more about the occupation on Nick’s website Island Fortress  here.

Thanks to Gnet Radio for recording the podcast and thanks to Jim Delbridge for the use of his song ‘5 to 7’ as our theme.

Summary

In this conversation, Keith Pengelley talks to Theresa Le Flem about her novels set during and after World War II, focusing on the experiences of characters in Guernsey. They explore the themes of survival, love, and the impact of war on personal relationships. The discussion covers the setting, character development, and the historical context of the stories, as well as the research involved in writing them. Theresa shares insights into Freedom on the Morning Tide, and hints at future projects.

• The first novel is titled A Sea of Barbed Wire.
• The sequel is called Freedom on the Morning Tide.
• The setting is Guernsey during World War II.
• Characters face moral dilemmas and personal conflicts.
• The islanders experienced starvation during the war.
• Tension builds as liberation approaches.
• Post-war challenges include family reunions and changes.
• Research is crucial for historical accuracy in writing.
• The narrative spans from 1942 to 1946.
• Theresa is working on a third novel in the series.

Available from all good book shops and Amazon.

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You can find out more about the occupation on Nick’s website Island Fortress  here.

Thanks to Gnet Radio for recording the podcast and thanks to Jim Delbridge for the use of his song ‘5 to 7’ as our theme.

Keith talks to Theresa La Flem an author captivated by Guernsey's history. Her novel 'A Sea of Barbed Wire' is set during the German occupation. 

Her research included visiting museums and speaking to locals. The characters in her story emerged from her research and imagination. Ellen, the main character, feels trapped by the occupation. The story explores themes of oppression and resilience. Theresa's writing is character-led, focusing on personal experiences.

Although Nick was slightly confused while editing this episode when Keith mentioned a Christmas lunch tomorrow!  I think he meant Sunday Lunch given this was recorded in July!

No more spoilers but you can get the book from your local independent bookstore or failing that Amazon.

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You can find out more about the occupation on Nick’s website Island Fortress here.

Thanks to Gnet Radio for recording the podcast and thanks to Jim Delbridge for the use of his song ‘5 to 7’ as our theme.

This episode we have the stories of two Spitfire Pilots who having been shot down in the Channel Islands end up at Stalag Luft III and one of them takes part in the Great Escape.

A Lancaster crash lands in Sark and the crew survive only to be captured and become POWs.  

The mystery of a German soldier called George Falla, yes you read that correctly a German soldier with a Guernsey name!

We talk about the hullabaloo caused when the Irish enquire if any Irish citizens have been deported and the Germans realise they made a mistake.   

The Guernsey Deportees Podcast by Ollie Guillou is well worth a listen.  You can find it here.

You can find a picture of Norman Amos we mention on the link here.

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You can find out more about the occupation on Nick’s website Island Fortress  here.

Thanks to Gnet Radio for recording the podcast and thanks to Jim Delbridge for the use of his song ‘5 to 7’ as our theme.

Hi All

We aren't able to record the November 1942 as Keith isn't well.  We do have an important message for one correspondent and look forward to November 1942 episode which will be out 30 June.

Please check out the The Guernsey Deportees Podcast.  Link here  https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/the-guernsey-deportees/

Upcoming stories related to RAF aircraft losses, including notable incidents involving Spitfires in Jersey and Guernsey. A wrongly deported Irishman and much more.

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If you want to email in a question send it to [email protected].   

You can find out more about the occupation on Nick’s website Island Fortress  here.

Thanks to Gnet Radio for recording the podcast and thanks to Jim Delbridge for the use of his song ‘5 to 7’ as our theme.

This episode explores the occupation of the Channel Islands during World War II, focusing on the experiences of the local population, the impact of food shortages, crime, and acts of defiance. The discussion includes personal accounts from diarists, the significance of the Sark raid Operation Basalt, and the legacy of the occupation in terms of memorials and remembrance.

Nick and Keith also talk about a slightly odd bunch running social media accounts on Twitter that keep tagging us their frankly bizarre posts.  

Also covered are - 

Severe food shortages and restrictions on daily life.

Acts of defiance, such as creating badges made 
Crime rates increased as desperation drove citizens to theft.

The Reverend Ord's accounts highlight the psychological impact of war on soldiers.

The Sark raid was a significant military operation with lasting consequences.

The Skelton case raises questions about loyalty and survival during the occupation.

The legacy of the occupation continues to influence memorialization efforts today.
Understanding the past is crucial for recognizing the human cost of war.

Diary that we mentioned of Philip Le Sauteur  is available here. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Diary-Jersey-under-Swatika-account-ebook/dp/B088P81P1X

Nick's book 'Tides of Defiance' can be preordered here and is out in August 2025.

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If you want to email in a question send it to [email protected].   

You can find out more about the occupation on Nick’s website Island Fortress  here.

Thanks to Gnet Radio for recording the podcast and thanks to Jim Delbridge for the use of his song ‘5 to 7’ as our theme.

Nick & Katie talk to Jenny O'Brien about her fantastic new book 'The Book of Lost Children' 

In this conversation, the Jenny discusses her book which marks a departure from her previous crime thrillers to historical fiction. She delves into the emotional challenges of writing about the occupation of Guernsey during World War II, exploring themes of motherhood, the experiences of nurses, and the complexities of character development. The discussion highlights the importance of historical accuracy and the emotional toll of writing such a poignant narrative.

It was great to chat to her again as Nick interviewed her for the Guernsey Literary Festival but had so many more things he wanted to ask that there wasn't time for!

You can order it from Amazon here available in paperback, Kindle or Audible!  Go and buy it now you won't regret it.  Oh and as you may have gathered from the interview you might need some tissues as it is quite emotional.

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If you want to email in a question send it to [email protected].   

You can find out more about the occupation on Nick’s website Island Fortress  here.

Thanks to Gnet Radio for recording the podcast and thanks to Jim Delbridge for the use of his song ‘5 to 7’ as our theme.

This episode explores the impact of military operations, including commando raids and the strategic significance of locations like the Casquets and Alderney. The discussion also highlights the complexities of collaboration and resistance during the German occupation, as well as the challenges faced by local populations. The conversation explores various aspects of life in Guernsey during the occupation, focusing on recruitment efforts, education initiatives, curfews, health concerns, food shortages, personal escape stories, and the impact of deportations. The speakers discuss how the community adapted to challenges, the importance of education, and the resilience of individuals during difficult times.

Send us Fan Mail

If you use the send us a text option and would like us to contact you please leave a contact method such as an email.

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If you want to email in a question send it to [email protected].   

You can find out more about the occupation on Nick’s website Island Fortress  here.

Thanks to Gnet Radio for recording the podcast and thanks to Jim Delbridge for the use of his song ‘5 to 7’ as our theme.