A RESERVOIR near Colchester which played a vital role in the Second World War has received its very own blue plaque.
The plaque was unveiled by Visit Essex at Abberton Reservoir near Layer on Monday, recognising its role during the war where it acted as a training ground for 617 squadron tests for the 'bouncing bomb'.
The plaque was placed on the reservoir’s causeway wall on Wigborough Road.
An unveiling ceremony took place with representatives from Visit Essex, and Essex & Suffolk Water.
The blue plaque was awarded after a public vote, which nominated the reservoir for the accolade.
The campaign was part of Visit Essex's Essex Day celebrations to mark historic events and people in the county.
Abberton Reservoir was the winner thanks to the part it played in the Second World War, seeing the RAF 617 Squadron practicing dropping the ‘bouncing bomb’ at Abberton before their flights on targets in the Ruhr valley.
The 1955 film The Dam Busters was based on their mission.
The judging panel consisted of BBC Essex presenter, Ben Fryer, Chair of Visit Essex Mark Durham, plus Visit Essex’s Tourism Manager, Lisa Bone.
Chair of Visit Essex, councillor Mark Durham, said: “617 Squadron’s raids on German dams using the bouncing bombs made a significant contribution to World War II.
"Abberton Reservoir played an important role in an iconic moment of British history, and we’re delighted to be able to mark this with a blue plaque.”
“Essex Day is always a wonderful chance to celebrate the diversity in Essex. Enabling us to mark historic places, plus outstanding people.”
Abberton Reservoir is managed by Essex & Suffolk Water, who were delighted to gain the plaque.
Kieran Ingram, Water Director, said: “We are thrilled that the generous public of Essex recognised the historic role that Abberton Reservoir played in the Second World War.
"It is a small part of Essex history that many are not aware of, so we’re very grateful to the judging panel for helping us highlight it.”
For more information, visit www.visitessex.com.
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