Selsey During the First World War

1914-1918

During the First World War, Selsey's position on the south coast brought the conflict close to home. Naval activity in the English Channel was visible from the shore, and the waters around Selsey Bill were patrolled by the Royal Navy. Fishermen from Selsey served in the naval reserve, using their knowledge of the local waters in the war effort. Some enlisted in the army and served on the Western Front. The war memorial in Selsey records the names of the men from the town who did not return. The fishing fleet continued to operate during the war years, providing food for the local community and the wider population. The isolation of the peninsula meant that Selsey was spared any direct attack, but the community felt the losses keenly.