User:Scottthomas96/sandbox

20th Century Greenock
In the run up to 1938, industry in Greenock had received a boost due to the demand of World War One and the looming possibility of the Second World War, with the shipbuilding industry in particular benefiting from an increased need in vessels. Outside of this, the local football club, Morton, was successful in entering the 'First Division' for a short period of time before being dropped once again. Further developments included the building of a new hospital, the Rankin Hospital (Magic Torch, 2006). The following year, however, the beginning of the Second World War was felt, with over 500 men being called to service. For the town in general, measures were put in place to protect civilians from the disastrous consequences of living in a town during war time. The 'Anderson Shelters' had begun construction and late night blackouts sought to protect the people from the potential of air strikes (ibid).

On the day that it was announced Britain would be going to war, 3rd September 1939, Greenock was declared a 'neutral area'. This meant that the town would not be evacuated but that security developments would be placed as a high priority in the event of enemy attack. These measures were extensive, for example three schools, Finnart, Craigieknowes and Forsyth Street, were turned into Civil Defence centres while baffle walls and shelters were being constructed elsewhere in the town. The effects of war were felt by the younger population with all schools and cinemas being closed for a while and a reported sharp increase in crimes being committed by young people (ibid).

The majority of the town's experience of war was felt through the damaged ships that came to shore for repairs and the new ships getting built, however, the relationship between Greenock and the war would intensify as time went on.