Sightseers calling at Devizes Wharf last week to catch sight of the World War Two submarine supposed to be there were furious to find out they had been had by the Gazette’s April Fools gag.

Despite the by-line of Paul Inyerleg, quotes from ‘author’ Betty Fawles-Forritt and the dateline of April 1, more than one hopeful turned up at the Kennet and Avon Canal Trust headquarters over Easter weekend.

Our story claimed that the War Ministry had built a replica U-boat to practice combating the menace to Allied shipping in the North Atlantic. One method was pouring molasses into the sub’s air intake.

Canal boat operator Ian Sharpe said: “One bloke came in and went absolutely ballistic when it was explained to him. No one could appeal to his sense of humour to get him to see the funny side.”