This event must rate as one of the premier events in the 1940's calendar. Our first day on Bolton Street station features the immaculate S-160 steam loco that arrived just for the event, and 40's music on the station platforms. Rawtenstall again featured some excellent battle scenes, and the re-enactors here are highly commended for their commitment to detail. An evening in Ramsbottom St Pauls Church revealed a superb singing duo, the Forces Sweethearts. Buy it and watch it, these two ladies were the tops.

Sunday and the event snow balled on to Irwell Vale, with a parade from the station to the church, and a church service in remembrance of all soldiers who have been in battles. A special speech from the Mayor of Rossendale followed. The street scenes in Irwell Vale were once again arranged with the locals to give a highly authentic 40’s village atmosphere. NOT TO BE MISSED! Then the climax on the station as Monty and Winston were kidnapped by paratroopers. A superb re-enactment, again highly commended. Ramsbottom found the day to day goings on with goods being shunted in the yard, and a 9F on the passenger trains. Songs from the 40’s from many different artists are also featured.

Monday came all too soon, but as usual there was much to be seen. The stalls at Bury, are a great place to rummage for your 40's gear, and the comings and goings of people around the station would make you think you were back in the 40's In the afternoon the addition of 'lindy hop' style dancing on the car park with the wonderful tones from G.I. jive just made you want t join in. Another battle at Rawtenstall was again a superb view of ebb and flow of battle, but the finales were not to be missed. This year 2 were had one in Ramsbottom & one in Irwell Vale. Sit back and enjoy the rousing hymns and songs of a superb service in St Pauls & Irwell Vale!

Approximate Running Time - 120 Minutes