Regency Street SW1

8 December 1940

By Alexander Korintus

On 8 December 1940 Regency Street SW1 suffered damage from two bombs that fell within close proximity of each other. At 11:00 pm, a high explosive bomb landed on the roadway, opposite the Royal Oak Public House. The resulting fire and debris caused damage to gas and water mains and all the windows in local shops and buildings were blown in. There was only one casualty after this first bomb: a civilian who was able to walk to Westminster Hospital.

The second high explosive bomb also exploded at 11:00 pm, just a short distance away from the first. Landing on a butcher’s shop at the junction of Fynes Street and Regency Street, the second explosion left the butcher’s premises completely demolished. There was some minor damage to the surrounding buildings as well, caused by debris from the explosion, including damaged water and gas mains.

The Metropolitan Water Board was notified of the explosion almost immediately. They were able to repair the damaged mains quickly following the incident. Fyne Street was blocked by debris following the explosion, but this too was dealt with soon after. Ambulance and stretcher parties were sent out to respond, however no casualties were reported.