Went the Day Well?

Disguised as a British Major, Hammond is the calculated German commander leading the vanguard into Bramley End. He embodies the threat of invasion with a calm, authoritative presence and precise, strategic thinking. His role anchors the conflict between deception and resistance, testing the villagers’ readiness to act.

Jung is the disciplined lieutenant assisting Hammond, carrying out orders with efficiency and menace. He represents the procedural side of the invasion, focusing on execution and intimidation. His presence heightens the tension as villagers confront covert threat in their midst.

The village squire who is revealed as a German collaborator, betraying the community from within. He exudes charm and self-interest, manipulating others to safeguard his status. His treachery directly undermines the Home Guard and local defenses.

Peggy is a member of the Women's Land Army who helps barricade a position and fight back when needed. She demonstrates resourcefulness and grit in crisis. Her actions contribute to the village’s defensive efforts against the invaders.

Nora, the vicar’s daughter, uncovers Wilsford’s treachery and becomes a key lay defender. She plays a pivotal role in rallying others and ultimately shoots the betrayer as he tries to aid the remaining Germans. Her determination becomes a turning point in the villagers’ resistance.

The village clergyman Diggs his role into the crisis, sounding the church bell and guiding the panic-stricken crowd toward alertness. He dies while trying to warn and mobilize, symbolizing moral leadership and sacrifice in wartime.

A brave young boy who escapes danger and ultimately reaches aid, George embodies the resilience of youth during wartime. His quick thinking and persistence help spark the broader effort to raise the alarm. His actions highlight that courage isn't limited by age.

The postmistress who attempts to call for help and even fights back with a hatchet, she embodies the civilian effort to connect with the broader world. Her struggle to reach the outside world underscores the fragility of communication in crisis. Her eventual death underscores the cost of resistance.

Daisy is a local resident who participates in defending the village, illustrating how ordinary townspeople contribute to the resistance. Her actions reflect the collective spirit of the community under siege. She adds to the mosaic of civilian involvement in the defense.

Tom Sturry is part of the village response team, interacting with other locals as they organize a countermeasure against the invaders. His involvement underscores how multiple villagers coordinate under pressure. He contributes to the overall mobilization and defense.

Ivy is among the villagers who manage to barricade their position and contribute to the defense, demonstrating the pivotal role women play in the Home Front defense. Her actions alongside Peggy Pryde illustrate the collaborative effort of men and women alike. Ivy's presence reinforces community resilience.

Bill Purvis, a local poacher, creates a diversion to draw attention away from George and the others, sacrificing himself in the process. His actions emphasize the costs of war, and his death marks a sacrifice that enables others to keep fighting. Purvis embodies the theme that every small act helps in crisis.