The Watford Observer has teamed up with Watford Museum and its curator Sarah Priestley to take a journey back to the town’s past through items or places of historical significance.
We've reached item 28 in 'a history of Watford in 50 objects' and it is simple but significant contribution from the town that played its part in defeating Germany during World War Two.
Sarah said: "During the Second World War, Watford’s industries took on new work to support the war effort. This included the printing of propaganda that was dropped into enemy territory, and a top secret material called ‘Window’.
"Also known as ‘Mixture’ these narrow strips of metal were produced at Sun in varying lengths and frequency responses to confuse enemy radar.
Read more: An album of Victorian photos in Watford
"Originally made of aluminium, this was found to be too light and copper and later tin foil was used to make the strips. When dropped, window confused German radar so they could not tell the size or direction of the attacking force.
The 'Mixture' was used to confuse German radar
"It's incredible to think that such a simple strip of metal made in Watford could do so much for the war effort."
Watford Museum is currently closed under lockdown restrictions but you can still pay it a virtual visit at www.watfordmuseum.org.uk or find the museum on Facebook and Instagram @watfordmuseum
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here