24 Greek Street W1

11 October 1940

By James Ramey

At around 12:35am, 11 October 1940, a high explosive bomb struck 24 Greek Street in Soho W1. The bomb inflicted major damage to the building and ignited a local gas main. Greek Street and Old Compton Street were both blocked by heavy debris. Emergency services, including Auxiliary Fire Service (AFS) pumps, rushed to the scene, approaching from Cambridge Circus due to the debris. Casualties were reported trapped under the wreckage and the Heavy Rescue Service were called to evacuate the survivors.

The Light Rescue Service and stretcher bearers were also deployed to 24 Greek Street. These men were charged with attending to the wounded and applying first aid to victims in the chaotic surroundings. They then determined which victims needed to go to the hospital as a priority.

With the gas fire blazing at Greek Street, a demolition squad was later called in to help clear the debris. An ARP message received observed that: “Demolition Squad required in Old Compton Street, building knocked down and gas main on fire.” Once the fire was put out and the demolition squad and Heavy Rescue Service had cleared the debris, three casualties were reported. Several others were also treated for their injuries.

In the night raid of 10 October and the early hours of 11 October 1940 over 200 German aircraft dropped bombs in over 40 areas of London.

Today 23-24 Greek Street is home to Maison Touareg, a Moroccan and Lebanese restaurant.