Hundreds enjoy 1940s weekend in Melton Town park

Visitors were treated to a number of re-enactors, displays and performers at the 1940s weekend as the event returned to Play Close.

Visitors were able to experience what it was like back in the 1940s with re-enactments in the park, actors in dress of that era walking around the event and demonstrations, including a vintage fire engine pumping water from the River Eye with the ARP/National Fire Service.

The event has grown in size since its first outing and covered the whole Play Close park with glorious sunshine on both days adding to the atmosphere.

Crowds enjoying the sunshine and performances on Sunday afternoon. Photo: NEMM

The event was organised by Melton Bid and Melton Mowbray Town Estate with help from local businesses and attracted hundreds of visitors on Saturday and Sunday.

The event's Ferris wheel is towered over by St. Mary's Church. Photo: NEMM

Battle Pipes entertaining the visitors on Sunday. Photo: NEMM

Shelagh Core from Melton Bid said: "Just a huge thanks to all the re-enactors and displays,

entertainment and traders who attended and visited, to make the event such a great success.

It was a phenomenal weekend and one that is just going to grow year on year. Plans are already underway to expand the event across the town & parks with more displays & entertainment."

Field Marshal Sir Alan Brooke and Churchill pose for a photo at the event. Photo: NEMM.

Among the highlights was a re-enactment from "Churchill" who impressed the crowd reciting the famous speech speech which was delivered by the British Prime Minister Winston Churchill to the House of Commons of the Parliament of the United Kingdom on 4 June 1940.

A plane displayed in the Play Close at the event. Photo: NEMM.

A major highlight on Saturday was a fly past by a Lancaster Bomber from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight which circled over the event at the Melton area. Unfortunately due to a technical issue the plane was grounded by the RAF on Sunday meaning the second flypast was cancelled.

Miss Lily Lovejoy performing on Sunday afternoon at the 1940s weekend. Photo: NEMM

Spectators were also treated to numerous performances and dances throughout the weekend including Miss Lily Lovejoy who sang hits from the 40s to a huge crowd.

There were also lots of food and drinks outlets in the park adding to the atmosphere and plenty of vintage cars on display.

Top quality re-enactors were on display during the event at the weekend. Photo: NEMM

The event has received well deserved praise on social media with many praising the event and organisers for bringing such a wonderful event to the town.

A date for your diary next year as the event has been confirmed as returning on 13th & 14th May 2023.

You can see our photo gallery of the event by clicking here.