Bullet indentations on exterior footbridge panel

















The physical results of this terrifying incident can still be seen in one of the east-facing side panels of the platform footbridge spanning the tracks where two bullets slammed against the bridge metal; one almost penetrating it.













Bullet indentations on interior of Truro station footbridge panel Photo: Charles Moorhen

















Bullet holes on Truro footbridge panel just above platform roof gutter on right









At the time of the attack the mail train from Penzance to London was standing in the station, and it is widely believed that it was the presence of the train which momentarily distracted the attention of the German pilot away from his main target - the city of Truro itself.





As the ME 109 flew on towards Truro, to join the raid which killed 14 people and resulted in the injury of another 100, it left behind two fatalities and a number of wounded.













Messerschmitt ME 109













Those who died were railway worker, Mr. P. Williams, 52, and postman, Mr. E. Pentecost, 41.









*************************************************************************





While on the subject of Cornish railways and WW2, it is worth noting that many children were evacuated by train to Cornwall at some point during the years of hostilities.





Here are two examples:





On Friday the 1st September 1939, 544 evacuee children and their teachers arrived at St. Austell station , Cornwall, on the 6:30 from Paddington, London, on Evacuation Train No.103.