A newly published document is offering a remarkable glimpse into Glastonbury's wartime resilience, as the town commemorates the 80th anniversary of VE Day.

The Glastonbury War Book, originally compiled during the Second World War by the town council's Invasion Committee, served as a survival manual to guide the town in the face of potential Nazi invasion. Now republished by Glastonbury Town Council, it lays bare the strategies, fears, and community efforts that shaped the town's wartime response.

From housing evacuees and coordinating fire guards to setting up bomb shelters and managing food supplies, the book details how Glastonbury planned to endure the hardships of war. The introduction traces the council's leadership throughout the conflict, from the formation of the Invasion Committee in 1941 through to the celebrations of VE Day in 1945.

"This document is a powerful reminder of the town's preparedness, resilience, and collective effort during one of the most challenging periods in our history," said a spokesperson for Glastonbury Town Council. "By sharing it with the community, we honour those who contributed to Glastonbury's wartime story and ensure their legacy is not forgotten."

Copies of The Glastonbury War Book are now available for £5.00 at the Glastonbury Information Centre and the Glastonbury Tribunal.

The publication follows in the footsteps of local historian Mary Claridge, who previously documented Glastonbury's experience of the First World War in her book Glastonbury's Other Legacy, with a second edition on the way.