FOR the second year in succession, one of the most popular events in the Wensleydale has fallen victim to uncertainty over the lifting of regulations.

With the nation emerging from lockdown, organisers of the Leyburn 1940s weekend have taken the difficult decision to once again cancel the event. Intended to take place in late July for what would have been its rescheduled and 13th nostalgia fest, Leyburn 1940s weekend offers visitors a chance to travel back to a decade when no-one wasted the chance to have a good time.

Converging on the market town for the two-day festival, thousands of visitors bedecked in gaudy uniforms and period clothing arrive by car, or choose to travel in style by train. Wensleydale Railway lays on special transport and an omnibus shuttles guests up to town from two cars parks and the railway station.

Throughout the weekend there are activities, military vehicles, dancing and music from the era, while on the Sunday there is a church service and memorial parade in town and children’s activities also take place.

In a statement on the event's website, a spokesman said: “We’ve all been looking forward to a great event in 2021 following the cancellation of last year’s event. However the event directors have decided that with the continuing uncertainty over the easing of restrictions it will not be possible to guarantee a safe event.

“Regrettably, the responsible and appropriate action to take in these circumstances is to cancel this year’s event. So our focus now is on delivering a bigger, better experience in 2022. We are currently looking at potential weekends for the event in 2022 and will announce these as soon as we have confirmed the date.

“We appreciate your patience and support, we know how much everyone enjoys the event and we want to be able to deliver a great weekend for everyone."

For more information visit the Leyburn1940s weekend website or Facebook page.