RESIDENTS flocked to a weekend of vintage glamour at a 1940s-themed event.

Ramsbottom, Bury and Rawtenstall went back in time as thousands of visitors, many in costume, embraced the era.

The streets were alive with music, entertainment, historical exhibitions, battles and re-enactments from the Second World War.

One of the highlights was the overhead display of an iconic Spitfire roaring across the skies in a spectacular fly-past on Saturday.

The East Lancashire Railway also played its full part, bringing the war years to life in various events at stations along the 12-mile line.

The Atlantic Conveyor loco took passengers to and from their destinations.

Donna Evans, aged 48 from Brixham, Devon, said: “It has been a lovely day.

“We go to lots of shows countrywide.

“The vintage vehicles are absolutely excellent and it is fantastic to see people dressed in full ensemble.

“We enjoyed a cup of tea while listening to live music.

“These events put everyone in a good mood.”

Visitors to Bury station on Saturday enjoyed music from vintage vocal harmony trio The Bluebird Belles.

Others put on their dancing shoes and joined the land girls and home guard for a good old-fashioned afternoon tea dance.

Bury Transport Museum also got in on the fun, hosting singing duo the Rum & Cola Girls and the George Formby Appreciation Society.

On Friday, visitors to the Irwell Works Brewery in Ramsbottom enjoyed classic 1940s hits performed by Poppy Holiday.

There were also a variety of vintage stalls to browse, as well as military and classic vehicle displays.

Alex Turner, aged 66 from Oldham, brought his one-tonne Land Rover 109 to the event, which was used in the army between 1965 and 1975.

On Sunday, families lined the streets and waved flags as a military parade marched through Ramsbottom town centre, led by Sergeant Major Reg Varney.

Sir Winston Churchill also made an appearance and shook hands with spectators!

Nigel Patterson, a re-enactment German soldier, said: “The whole event has been great.

“Our camp is in Rawtenstall but we have been acting on the platforms and trains, asking people for identification and other roleplay. People love it.”

Brenda Hollins, aged 73 from Haughton Green, said: “This is a fantastic event. Everything is bigger, better, bolder.”