A TOWN is preparing to turn back the clock for a nostalgic weekend which has captured the imagination of thousands of visitors for the last nine years.

Firmly marked as one of the most popular events in the Wensleydale social calendar, the Leyburn 1940s weekend will take place on Saturday, July 23 and Sunday, July 24.

The two day festival is a Mecca for enthusiasts for period costume, music and vintage vehicles and each year thousands of people descend on the market town decked out in full 1940s costume or military uniforms.

The Market Place becomes the focus for all things of the era: music, singing, dancing, stalls and vintage vehicles, including the popular Morris Minor and Morris Eight, shown by the Morris Register enthusiasts’ club.

This year an iconic replica Spitfire will take pride of place in the car park of the Bolton Arms pub.

Re-enactors from all over the country choose Leyburn for a friendly atmosphere, great participation by the local community and a well-organised weekend of fun and nostalgia.

For those wanting to indulge in retail therapy, there are stalls selling 1940s goods and clothing, all at modern-day prices.

The shops, cafes and pubs all turn on the 1940s style and there is music and singing, plus lessons and demonstrations of wartime dances in the town, at the railway station and the arts centre.

On Sunday, a parade featuring a pipe band and church service take place, or visitors can sit back and enjoy the atmosphere in the gardens of Thornbrough Hall with 1940s music and dancing vintage teas.

This year there will also be a 1940s prosecco bar and outside there will be a military surplus outfitters, vintage clothing and accessories exhibitors all on hand to help visitors recreate the perfect style of the era.

Inside, the trip down memory lane continues with handmade vintage hats and accessories, linens, jewellery and curios, silverware, and1940s inspired baked goods and fudge.

Kate Loughlin, organiser, said: “The event has grown over the years; we have got plenty for all ages and tastes to enjoy.

“Parking will be available in the Auction Mart and at Tennants with a shuttle bus service up to the town.” For more information visit www.leyburn1940sweekend.org/.