The population of Britain was mobilized to support the war effort on a scale unseen in any other Western democracy - or in Nazi Germany. They endured long working shifts, shortages of food and all other goods, and complete government control of their daily lives. Most men and women were conscripted or volunteered for additional tasks outside their formal working hours. Under the air raids that destroyed the centres of many towns and made about 2 million homeless, more than 60,000 civilians were killed and 86,000 seriously injured. This fascinating illustrated summary of wartime life, and the organizations that served on the Home front, is a striking record of endurance and sacrifice.

Martin J Brayley now works as a professional photographer and freelance author after many years' service with the Royal Navy. A long-time collector and researcher of militaria, previous publications include 'World War II British Women's Uniforms' and 'The World War II Tommy - British Army Uniforms.' An expert marksman, Martin Brayley has represented Great Britain at international level and currently lives in Hampshire with his wife and son.
Malcolm McGregor spent four years at art school and then went on to work in advertising for ten years. He started freelancing in 1966. He has previously illustrated the three book series 'Flags of the Third Reich' for Osprey (Men-at-Arms 270, 274 and 278).