Bomb dubbed 'Hitler's gift to Dartmouth' restored

Britannia Royal Naval College's Captain Andy Bray thanks the bomb's restorer, Greg Rowland

A bomb dubbed "Hitler's gift to Dartmouth" which failed to explode when it was dropped on a naval college, has been restored 82 years later.

The 550lb (250kg) device – half of it explosives – was one of three bombs dropped on Dartmouth and the college by the Luftwaffe during World War Two on 13 February 1943.

Two other bombs destroyed several buildings in the Devon town and 15 people were killed in the daytime raid, according to the Royal Navy.

The bomb, which landed on the Britannia Royal Naval College (BRNC), was made safe after it came to rest in the fireplace of the master's common room, now used as an accommodation block for Officer Cadets.

Public tours

After the war, the bomb was placed on a plinth outside the headmaster's house with a plaque inscribed: "A gift from Adolf Hitler, 13th February 1943."

Over the decades, since the weather has taken its toll, Lt John Connor called in master wheelwright and cannon restorer Greg Rowland from Colyton to restore the empty shell.

Mr Rowland has also restored five vintage cannons which have all been placed in front of the college overlooking the parade ground.

The college suffered a direct attack in a bombing raid on 18 September 1942 while the cadets were still on summer leave.

One person died and the building was badly damaged. The college was evacuated to Cheshire after the raid.

Philip's shipyard and coaling bunkers in the River Dart were also attacked.

The college runs paid public tours through the Britannia Association, and is also planning an open day in July when people can see the restored bomb.