THE BODIES ON THE BEACH
By James Hayward (2001)



The Bodies on the Beach by James Hayward is a thoroughly revised and updated edition of his earlier book on the same subject, and is a study of the various myths surrounding the planned German invasion of Britain in 1940, and in particular the legend of an actual invasion attempt repulsed by burning seas. The bizarre fireship plan Operation Lucid and the Texel Disaster are also examined in detail. The book also takes a critical look at the resurrection of the failed invasion myth in 1992, this time focused on the tiny Suffolk coastal hamlet of Shingle Street. Overall, the book contains a wealth of fascinating information about the 'invasion summer' of 1940 never previously made public.

Go to Foreword to read the introduction to this excellent book, which reached No 1 in local interest book lists across Norfolk and Suffolk. £7.99 (ISBN 0-9540549-0-3)

"If ever proof were needed of the power of myth over truth then we need look no further than this book by James Hayward. Concisely yet surely, he strips bare the myriad layers of official fabrication and public gullibility to reveal the fascinating story behind the invasion that never was." (Eastern Daily Press, 7 July 2001)

"The famous Shingle Street mystery about a possible failed German invasion attempt along the Suffolk coast is being reignited... The Bodies on the Beach provides the first comprehensive study of the origin, circulation and astonishing longevity of the rumour of the 'invasion that failed' between 1940 and 1992" (East Anglian Daily Times, 30 May 2001)

"An excellent, well-researched account of aspects of the 1940 invasion danger that have received little attention... The author provides fascinating details of Shingle Street and the myths (not totally myths, in fact) of the bodies of German soldiers being washed up on the beach there and elsewhere." (Defence of Britain Project newsletter, July 2001)

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