Zeppelins were the biggest aircraft ever built and Germany led the way in their use as a weapon of war. In 1915 the German Kaiser authorised air attacks against Britain and Essex found itself in the firing line. Not only were its towns targets but the county also lay on one of the main air routes to London. Zeppelins that failed to reach the capital often jettisoned their bombs on the population of Essex as they returned to base, the raids greeted with a mixture of fear and fascination. Despite official warnings and the risk of death or injury, as bombing began crowds thronged the streets to witness the unfolding drama. High above them Zeppelin crews battled lack of oxygen and intense cold. Flying without parachutes, if they were shot down they faced a terrible decision as their airship plunged to earth in flames – should they jump or burn? Many jumped.

This book tells the incredible story of the First World War Zeppelin raids on Essex, illustrated with captivating contemporary photographs and other images from the time.