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Shellshocked

Kate Stirrup
19/ 2/2004

WHEN painter and decorator Terry O'Brien started digging up his garden to build an extension he was shocked to discover a perfectly preserved air raid shelter from the 1940's.

When amazed Terry realised what was under his lawn he investigated further and discovered the 14 ft long shelter.

It would have been used to protect the residents of Darley Avenue during World War Two from the dreaded German Luftwafer.

Now Terry's extension at his Chorlton home has been put on hold while he decides what should happen to his historical find.

Terry, 60, said: "When we moved in to the house I noticed a bit of a dip at the bottom of the garden. And this week I started to clear the top of it... and I just kept digging and digging until I realised what was under there."

"This is the first shelter I've heard of in the area. I knew people had to take refuge somewhere - I just didn't expect it to be the bottom of my garden."

"It is an amazing thing to discover. And I hope we can find a way to keep the air raid shelter and still build our extension. I think all the neighbours are a bit bemused by our discovery to be honest. Who knows, maybe they could have the same thing on their properties. If anyone knew the history of the shelter, or had even been in it during the war, I'd love to hear from them."

Terry's partner Bernadette Hefferman, 45, added: "It is absolutely unbelievable to think this huge air raid shelter has been here all along. It is in great condition."

"It is very strange to think of people hiding down here 60 years ago. It feels like it would be very safe down there."

Bernadette, a trainee health worker at Manchester Royal Infirmary added: "We only moved into this house two years ago, and we had no idea about what was really under our garden. It is quite eerie when you go into it, and walk from one end to the other, under the ground."

• Do you know the history of air raid shelters in south Manchester? Did you experience the blitz in Manchester during World War II? The Reporter wants to hear from you. Call 161 446 2213.