ON May 10, 1940, the course of the Second World War suddenly changed direction.

The Germans started to push west through Holland and Belgium towards France, threatening British soil.

Up to this point, many in Britain had come to regard the conflict as a ‘phoney war’, due to the lack of enemy action in areas defended by British troops.

For many in Britain, the concern that an invasion was imminent became so great that just four days later, the Secretary of State for War put out a request for men to come forward and join a new force called the Local Defence Volunteers, later renamed the Home Guard, and now commonly known as ‘Dad’s Army’.

By May 19, around 4,500 applications had been made by volunteers on the IW and they were starting to be organised into fighting units.

Since retiring from the regular army eight years ago, Steven Williams has been studying all aspects of the Home Guard in Britain, taking a particular interest in the units raised on the Island.

He will be repeating his very popular talk from last year on the subject at Carisbrooke Castle Museum on Tuesday, January 22, from 2pm to 4pm.

In his talk, he will look at the different types of units locally, some of their roles and responsibilities, as well as some of their equipment and weaponry.

Items in Carisbrooke Castle Museum will be used to illustrate the talk.

To book a place or find out more about Carisbrooke Castle Museum’s winter programme of talks visit the museum’s website at www.carisbrookecastlemuseum.org.uk/book-tickets.

Alternatively, contact the museum by e-mailing info@carisbrookecastlemuseum.org.uk or by ringing 01983 523112.

Booking is essential. Tickets cost £8 and include refreshments.