View from the top of Nazeing Common with a recent dusting of snow. Hiding somewhere in the distance, there is herd of deer. See if you can spot them!

During World War II, Nazeing Common was used as decoy airbase for the nearby North Weald airfield. Regular RAF airmen were used to man the dummy airfield which were protected by anti-aircraft guns and had the same lighting system in appearance as a normal airfield.  By the use of some very clever lighting the men could simulate moving aircraft, which gave the illusion to German bomber crews that it was an active airfield, which helped draw bombers away from North Weald.