When the Luftwaffe's Blitz on Britain began in September 1940, people's homes and their contents were destroyed at an alarming rate. Thanks to the bombing, furniture shortages in Britain hit an all time high by 1942. The government responded with a range of affordable furniture - the so-called Utility Furniture Scheme - but only for those that could prove their need. Jon Mills presents a comprehensive guide to the introduction of utility Furniture, to accompany a facsimile reproduction of the first Utility catalogue that appeared in 1943. Jon Mills gives a fascinating insight into the privations of the war years and a nostalgic look back for those who remember this sturdy furniture, much of which has survived into the 21st century.