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   DESFORD ARCHIVES: WWII 

Desford's Secret Weapon:
The Paraslasher

In 1940, invasion by the German forces seemed a real threat and several strange ways of countering this were proposed. 

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Squadron Leader George Reid DFC, owner of Desford airfield, invented a weapon to attack airborne troops by slicing open their parachutes as they descended. It was proposed to fit the weapon to Tiger Moths which were then being used by the Elementary Flying Training School (EFTS).

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It consisted of an 8ft length of aircraft tubing with a sharp scythe blade fitted to it. It was stowed beneath the aircraft fuselage and could be lowered by a lever in the cockpit when needed.

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The prototype of this device was produced by Reg Emerson, an engineer with Reid & Sigrist. The first flight took place on 12th June 1940 with Squadron Leader George Lowdell and, with continued practice, he gained considerable expertise.  In July a demonstration was arranged for Ministry officials, but it received a lukewarm reception. The contraption was dismantled and that was the end of the Paraslasher. 

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Do you have any photos, documents or stories of Desford's past you would like to share with us? Please get in touch as we would love to hear from you.

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For enquiries regarding Desford Heritage CIO Charity, Desford Heritage Trail, Family History Group, and Heritage Events please email: desfordheritage@gmail.com

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To find out about becoming a member of the Local History Group or volunteering opportunities email desford.history@gmail.com

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This website was created with thanks to the Leicestershire Archaeological and Historical Society Public Heritage fund.

Desford Heritage CIO is registered as a charity in England and Wales [No.1209203]

Registered office: Desford Library, Main St, Desford, Leicester LE9 9JP

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