Staffordshire Tank Banks

Tanks were introduced into the field of battle during the First World War. To encourage people to give generously towards their development tanks toured towns and cities across the country.

The Potteries had a tank but Stafford had to make do with building a wooden version at the Siemens factory – which had been taken over from its German parent company.

The newspapers were full of exhortations to come and buy War Bonds (£5 and upwards) and War Savings Certificates(multiples of 15 shillings and 6d). The aim was to raise enough money to buy 27 airplanes, although they beat the target easily.

Read more about the Stoke Tank Week .