The Channel Islands, self-governing British Crown dependencies lying o the coast of Normandy in France, have a fascinating military heritage. Jersey and Guernsey are the two largest islands, but other inhabited islands include Alderney, Sark and Herm. Open to invaders, including the Vikings, the islands passed to Norman control in the ninth century. Although King John lost all his mainland Normandy possessions, he retained the islands, which became an important strategic stronghold, heavily fortified and often defended by local militias. Defences were strengthened during the threat of invasion of Britain by Napoleon but were occupied by German forces in the Second World War, becoming part of their Atlantic Wall defences.

This book will be of interest to all those who would like to know more about the Channel Islands’ remarkable military history.

'For military enthusiasts who have never visited the islands but are planning to correct that oversight, this is a good introduction to the islands' military heritage. The work reveals more than general guidebooks and leads tourists down pathways to explore some of the more out-of-the-way sites, such as Fort William and Henry on Jersey.' * Gunmart Magazine, November 2024 *

Andrew Powell-Thomas writes military history, local heritage and children’s fiction books, regularly speaking at events, libraries, schools and literary festivals across the South-West. He lives in Somerset with his wife and two young sons and with more books and events planned, it is possible to keep up with everything he is up to by following him on social media, Twitter page @authorapt, or by visiting his website at http://www.andrewpowell-thomas.co.uk