Barrage Balloons
The Barrage Balloon destroyed 24 piloted enemy aircraft and 278 (231 confirmed) non piloted enemy 'missiles'. 91 of our own aircraft also collided with balloon cables, causing 38 of them to crash, the latter figure does not appear to be true, researchers have found the actual figure to be much higher, however, they say that the deterrent value of the balloon barrage was incalculable, they certainly represent a symbolic part of World War II to many people and were a comforting sight to many more.
this barrage balloon above Washington Terrace, North Shields
had slipped its moorings at Tynemouth Golf Course and caused roof damage to houses from its cables. Note the painted tree trunk to help people in the black-out.