Large formations of German bomb-, ers, escorted by hordes of fighters, in the most determined and ete: attempt to pierce British defenses thus far, yesterday morning made at least three main thrusts at the capital from the south-east coast.
In each case the invading planes encountered withering anti-aircraft gunfire and solid blocks of British fighters which turned back the Germans. It was estimated that at least 220 German bombers and fighters participated in the raid, The Air Ministry announced yesterday afternoon that 25 German planes had been destroyed up to 3.30 p.m. and that 18 British planes were missing. Eight British pilots of the missing planes were safe, the Ministry said.
The Air Ministry and Ministry of Home Security issued.a joint communique yesterday afternoon stating:
"Enemy aircraft in considerable numbers crossed the south-east coast this morning. Preliminary reports so far available indicate that a few bombs were dropped in Kent and Essex, but little damage appears to have been conused. A few casualties were reported, several of which were fatal.
"Final reports of yesterday's (Mon-y's) action show that 24 aircraft were lost, 10 pilots of which are safe."—United Pres
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.