A husband and wife writing team from Bushey have penned a book exploring life in Watford during World War II.

Eugenia and Quentin Russell’s new book, Watford at War 1939-45, details Watford’s importance in the war due to its history of light industry and its proximity to London, and includes rarely seen archival photographs.

Dr Eugenia Russell is a lecturer in history at St Marys University, Twickenham, and her husband, Dr Quentin Russell, is an art historian, writer and producer. They live in Bushey and have previously written books including Watford and Southwest Herts in the Great War.

World War II was total war. Every aspect of everyday life was a contribution to the war effort and every individual, from small children, to women and the elderly, joined those in active military service in propelling the nation to victory.

Watford at War brings the reader closer to the experiences of the local population during this time of unprecedented challenges.

Local regiments, the Home Guard, women volunteers, the involvement of schools and hospitals, evacuees, conscientious objectors, spies and prisoners of war, all come alive on the page and tell the story of a town determined to make the most of life during the war years.

Illustrated with archival and modern photographs, Watford at War 1939-45 is a fascinating read for everyone interested in the social history of the area, as well as readers looking for material on the history of World War II at home.

Watford at War 1939-45 by Eugenia and Quentin Russell is published by Pen & Sword Military and is available now.