Martello tower history project needs volunteers

Volunteers are being sought to take part in a coastal fort history project.

Recruits will help to conduct and gather research on Felixstowe's Martello Tower P in Suffolk which was built during the early 19th Century Napoleonic Wars as part of Britain's maritime defence strategy.

The project is part of ongoing work by East Suffolk Council and Suffolk Archives to "breathe new life into the structure and elevate its status among the heritage landscape".

The aim of the research is to create a historical timeline of the seafront structure covering its 200-year lifespan.

Between 1805 and 1812 eight Martello towers - built to house rooftop cannon - on the Felixstowe peninsula as a defence against possible invasion by French forces.

Their design was inspired by an ancient watch tower at Mortella Point in Corsica and the towers were named with letters of the alphabet, stretching from East Sussex to Suffolk.

Tower 'P' in Martello Park at the southern end of Felixstowe was built with about 750,000 bricks and cost approximately £2,000 to construct.

At the end of the Napoleonic Wars, it was occupied by members of the Coastguard Service who kept watch for vessels suspected of smuggling and during World War One the building became a signal station intercepting secret German radio messages.

Today the tower's lookout is one of the stations of the National Coastwatch Institution.

Research will begin in February and the project is due to be completed in October.

Paul Wood, head of economic development and regeneration at East Suffolk Council, said: "This is a brilliant opportunity for those invested in the rich history of Martello Tower P to be involved in this unique research project.

"It is a much-loved prominent landmark on the Felixstowe seafront and we are looking forward to working with Suffolk County Council in delivering this incredible project."

Philip Faircloth-Mutton, county council cabinet member for environment, communities and equality, said: "I'm pleased to see this great project that will help highlight the history of Martello Tower P.

"We are excited to be working alongside East Suffolk Council to bring this fascinating landmark's story to life."

No experience is required for the volunteering roles, as recruits will be provided with training and support, and applications via the Suffolk Archives website close 14 February.

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