World War II: Air raid siren to sound over central London to commemorate anniversary of biggest Blitz attack

On this day in 1940, more than 100,000 bombs were dropped on London by the Nazis

(Getty Images)

An air raid siren will sound over central London late on 29 December to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the biggest Blitz raid on the capital.

The City of London has given permission for the air raid signal to be played at 6.05 this evening, which marks the anniversary of the start of the raid.

Between 6 pm and the early hours of the morning on 29 December 1940, more than 100,000 bombs were dropped on London by the Nazis.

The raid, which was the night of the iconic photo of St Pauls Cathedral’s dome amid clouds of black smoke, became known as the second fire of London and saw 160 civillians killed with many more later dying of their injuries.

Winston Churchill gave a direct order to save the cathedral, prompting crews of fire fighters and volunteers who fought flames outside and put out firebombs on the roof.

A memorial service will take place at St Paul’s later tonight, with other commemorative events having been carried out throughout the day.