--- A tribute to Captain R.V. Harley ---
The woodlands around here may seem peaceful and unspoilt, but in World War Two large tracts of Sherwood Forest were requisitioned by the military to act as ammunition stores, camps, prisoner of war camps, displaced persons camps, and training areas.
The cache is hidden at the side of a hollow ringed by earth banks, an example of what is thought to be one of many former ammunition stores. Don't worry, the site has been cleared; see the story below.
The Sherwood Forest Archaeology Project is researching the area:
http://mercian-as.co.uk/sfapworldwartwo.html
According to Edwinstowe Historical Society:
The Edwinstowe Camp at Birklands was initially occupied by the Army who were tasked with providing security for the Munitions being stored in Sherwood (Clumber, Thoresby, and Welbeck Estates) – they controlled access to the ASDs, mounting road blocks and running patrols.
It was one of the largest ammunition storage depots in the country and covered over 100 square miles. It was called CAD Warsop. During the war, the U.S. Army stored ammunitions there.
After the war, Sherwood Forest was used to stock pile unwanted ammunition, until it could be re-used or destroyed. The site was closed in 1954.
Who was Capt. R.V. Harley? His job was to inspect that the forest was being cleared of ammunition and restored to a good condition. He was born on the 2nd August 1919 and died on the 19th August 2010, aged 91.
He was a very brave man who was awarded the George Medal in recognition of his gallant and distinguished services following an explosion.
See
the Edwinstowe Historical Society web page for the story.
Placed with the kind permission of Forestry England.