Eight thousand visitors poured through the gates of The Camp in Wood Lane, Ramsey, on Saturday and Sunday for the annual 1940s Weekend.

Organising committee spokesman, Jayne Mann, said everyone had a fantastic time, but there was one disappointment – the planned flypast by the Lancasters could not take place due to 60mph winds on the Sunday.

“It did not dampen our spirits though as we had some great attractions with 76 stalls and exhibitions, including for the first time, Jones’ Butchers’ Van, the original van used in the Dad’s Army television series,” Jayne said.

“That proved to be of great interest especially with the look-alikes of characters such as Captain Mainwaring and Private Pike. Our 1940s’ hairdresser was booked up for hair and beauty from the period for the whole weekend and everyone loved the 1940s’ garden, not to mention the displays of vintage vehicles.

“The re-enactments always go down very well as visitors love to speak to those taking part about their clothes and weapons, and generally what life was like back then. This year we had a nursing display, which was also of great interest.”

Hundreds of people helped over the weekend, but as Jayne said, they could always do with more! The organisers are already planning next year’s event. “As we were disappointed we could not have the Lancasters this year, we are going to book aircraft really early, to make sure we get a good display for 2015.”