Situated on the east coast of Essex, England, on the estuary of River Roach, Foulness Island has long been controlled by the military. The artillery range there was first established by the War Office in the mid-19th century, and is now operated by the Ministry of Defence for testing new weapons and ammunition. Being located a long way from large population centers, the island is ideally suited for this purpose.

The island itself, however, is not free of civilians. Cohabiting with killer grenades, explosive shells and guided missile systems, are a small number of families who grow wheat, barley, peas and linseed on leased land. This bizarre arrangement makes Foulness Island a unique place.

The Broomway. Photo: Adrian Miller/Flickr