EPW019252 ENGLAND (1927). Chittening National Filling Station, Avonmouth, 1927

Location of Security Gate. The location of the Main Gate at H. M. Filling Factory Chittening. The munitions factory was enclosed by a wire security fence which terminated here. Workers entering or leaving the factory had to pass under the ever watchful eye of the factory police force who were located in security offices, one either side of the road into the factory. Each office had its attendant search room, one for male and one for female employees. All employees walked passed security. A cycle shed a few metres outside of the Main Gate was provided for personal transport. The majority of workers arrived by motor-lorry, a service provided by the ministry or by train at the newly constructed Chittening Platform. Those who made the journey by lorry along Washing Pool Lane were set down on, or near the turning circle outside of the main administration building, from here it was a short walk to the Main Gate. The ministry placed advertisements in the local press when it required additional security staff, preferring people who had served in the constabulary. Failing that, soldiers, preferably N. C. O's. Preference being given to men slightly incapacitated who were unable to do manual work. When advertising for Policewomen, it was specified that they should be educated, preferably with previous experience as policewomen or charge hand. Special constables were sworn in at Lawford's Gate Petty Session, Bristol. Pilfering was common place and action taken against offenders. The Head Cook at the factory canteen was fined £2 for stealing a pot of jam worth 11 pence. A store man was brought before Lawford's Gate Petty Session for stealing half a pint of spirit, value 20 pence, property of the Ministry of Munitions. For a period of time, articles had gone unaccounted for and a watch was kept on the store man. He was seen entering the chemical storeroom and also observed taking alcohol from a drum. The store man was fined £5.

Avonmouth to Severn Beach railway line GWR

Smoke Lane

Washingpool Lane

Field Boundary which can be seen today.