Hampden(?)-raid of Oct 1st/2nd 1940 on Germany

[TCO]

I live in Germany and I am researching the airwar in my vincinity.
I hope you can support me regarding the following event?

In the night from the first to second October 1940 at least nine 500 lbs GP-bombs plus more than 50 stick-type-incendiary bombs hit an open field between the villages
Hellenhahn and Hoehn. This attack was most probably triggered by a faked airfield, which was installed west of the village Hellenhahn.
(To give a rough orientation, this AREA IS IN THE MIDDLE BETWEEN COLOGNE AND FRANKFURT, APPR. 50 MILES SOUTH OF THE RUHR-VALLEY).

When bomber-noise was heard, they switched on the decoy-landing path of this faked airfield. I can imagine that the original mission-target was maybe in the Ruhr-valley, however the navigational skills were still poor in this early stage of war, therefore the crews released their bombs often on targets of opportunity.

My personal guess is that the bombs were released by Hampden-bombers?

I would appreciate any hint, which could help to bring more light into this event?


Yours sincerely,

TCO

[Larry]

Interesting question, especially concerning incendiary bombs, as I'm not sure when they were introduced by the RAF.

Do you have a report to confirm the date in October 1940?

[TCO]

Yes, this attack is listed in an official report, which was issued by local authorities. I did also talk to an eye-witness, who helped collecting the incendiary bombs. October 1940 is correct.

Best Regards,
TCO

[Kaczmarek]

The Mk I of the 4 lb Incendiary where introduced in September 1937. When the Second World War starts 5 million 4 lb Incendiaries was available. In March 1938 15 % of the production receive a little explosive charge. This incendiaries are known as Mark I E. The Mk II followed begin of 1940. And so on.

Rgds,
Kaczmarek

[TCO]

Any guess regarding the unit?