George and his friend Peter are out scavenging to collect items for the war effort. With the country needing all sorts of materials to help build tanks, planes, and other important things for the military, nothing is wasted – every bit of metal, paper and even old clothes are valuable.
People are even turning things like iron railings and penny slot machines into parts for the war!
Embed from Getty ImagesGeorge and Peter set off with their trusty cart to gather old pots, pans, metal scraps and even boiled bones for making glue for planes. Along the way, they joke about how people are finding creative ways to make do, like Mrs. Jenkins, who used her husband’s parachute to make a wedding dress! George’s mum is busy making him new clothes from government patterns to save on fabric and Peter’s nan isn’t too happy that he’s been clearing out her old pots for scrap.
Embed from Getty ImagesThe boys also collect kitchen waste for pigs, because even potato peelings can help provide more bacon! However, things don’t go smoothly. The cart gets away from them and ends up in the canal, causing chaos and a splash. They realise that while scavenging is important for the war effort, it’s also a good idea to hold onto your cart!
Embed from Getty ImagesIn the end, George reflects on how everyone was doing their bit to help, whether it was by recycling or salvaging, to support the war. In fact, the country needed 40,000 tonnes of scrap iron every week to keep up with the demand!
Next time: The Blitz Kids are looking forward to Christmas 1943 and a visit from Cousin Betty!
Do this…
During the war, nothing went to waste. Children and adults alike collected scrap metal, paper, bones and even food waste to help Britain build planes, feed pigs and keep going through tough times. This activity helps you explore how recycling and repurposing became a way of life. Get started here.
Can you spot this?
An image of a shelter sign – this is Queen Anne’s Gate, Westminster.