Rufford Country Park stepped back in time this weekend hosting the exciting and ever popular event showing the life and times during the Second World War. This was the eighth year for this 1940’s event where thousands of visitors attended over the glorious weekend. There was an action packed programme for both days of the event including displays, music and song. One of the biggest highlights was the Battle of Britain Memorial flight Dakota on the Saturday where visitors were in awe of being able to wave to the pilot as the low flying aircraft flew over the picturesque Abbey and Lake of the Country Park. Other highlights over the weekend included re-enacting an emergency scene from an air raid where casualties were rescued from the blazing Abbey ruins by the fireman, turntable and pump and then being treated by the emergency services.
The Jitterbugs in the Marquee had a good audience for their performance on how to do the basic swing jive and stroll. There were many talks given including “What it was like to be a Bevin Boy” and “What is was like to be a paratrooper on D-Day” to name but a few.
An emotional aura filled the park at 3.45 on Sunday when there was a minute’s silence to remember and honour the fallen.
There were many 1940 stalls selling period costumes and displays of various vehicles from the era. The Abbey Courtyard was full of the sound of the 1940’s music with couples dancing to the music and a very easy going, relaxing atmosphere filled the air.
A good time was had by all over this memorable weekend – roll on the 2015 on the Home Front 1939-1945……..
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