Online archive captures life in wartime Britain

An image from 'War Comes to London' Credit: British Council

A newly-released collection of online film archives gives a rare and fascinating insight into everyday life during wartime London. Digitised by the British Council, the clips shine a light on aspects of life for ordinary people of all ages, reflecting how the capital prepared for conflict, and show children being evacuated to the country.

Filmed during the 1930s and 1940s, they were originally intended to be watched in embassies, consulates and classrooms around the world - displaying the best of British during World War II. They complete the British Council's online film collection.

'War Comes to London' (1940) centres around how the capital prepares itself for the trials of World War II:

'These Children are Safe' (1940) follow those evacuated from the capital:

'Swinging the Lambeth Walk' (1940) is an artful representation of the popular 1930s tune:

'Routine Job' (1946) looks at how Scotland Yard's Flying Squad solves the mystery of stolen crates of tea

'Sea Scouts' (1941) is a light-hearted look at the history of the Sea Scouts:

An image from 'Routine Job' Credit: British Council