Show on map This metal pin is another part of the extensive network on anti-landing measures around Greatham Creek.
It was the mounting point for a Spigot Mortar or Blacker Bombard which would have been able to fire a 20lb anti-tank explosive approximately 100 yards, presumably at any invading force on the nearby bridge.
The original bridge which has since been replaced, was itself mined to allow its total destruction
Show on map After a little more research and some input from readers i’m now confident these are the remains of a QF decoy site called Greenabella. These sites lit controlled fires during air raids to appear as targets struck by bombs. This location was a civil decoy for Middlesbrough.
A reference in ‘Fields of Deception’ by Colin Dobinson idenifies a generator house and site shelter at this location.
Both have an offset entrance or a blast wall for protection
I think the larger structure with the holes for pipes and a chimney is likely to be the generator building, with the smaller structure the shelter.
Other decoy sites in the area also have unusual structures.
Show on map The square section post lies on an elevated platform that was formerly a railway.
Internally its of a similar construction to the smaller section posts close by, although this time the view is of cows rather than a mud bank.
The adjacent pillbox is in remarkably good cood condition, mostly free of rubbish and grafitti and even retaining some metal shutters inside.
Show on map A row of three identical World War 2 section posts can be found along the edge of the Seal Sands nature reserve.
The most northerly is open at both ends, although its view has been blocked by a later bank, internally some concrete shelves remain along the walls.
The central post is similarly blocked by a large bank.
The most southerly post retains its outside views although some attempts have been made to block the doorways.
Due to land reclamation they are now inland, but would have overlooked a much larger Seal Sands during World War 2
Show on map A row of three pillboxes surround the western edge of Greatham, they defended RAF Greatham / RAF West Hartlepool.
The central one is easily accessible from a public footpath, while the others can be seen north and south.
The Anti Tank Cubes are adjacent to the pillbox, next to the bridge over the stream.
Show on map The Hospital of God was founded by Robert de Stichell, the Bishop of Durham in 1273 to care for poor and elderly people.
The charity runs 63 almshouses in Greatham, amongst them this spectacular listed building.
Show on map Group of three large pillboxes at Greatham Creek, situated at the end of a disused railway.
One can be accessed via a hole in the bricked up door.
