1940s WEEKEND PHOTO REPORT

Photo: C A Barry
Enemy action caused travel delays for both military and civilian personnel.
The Isle of Wight Steam Railway's 2007 '1940s Weekend' took place over the weekend of 30th June and 1st July. Despite very wet weather on the Saturday morale remained high as Havenstreet Station hosted a convincing recreation of life in 1940s Britain. The military vehicle display was the largest yet seen and the ever popular 1940s fashion and dance displays attracted large crowds. On the railway Hunslet 'Austerity' WD192 'Waggoner' hauled the heavy troop trains whilst Barclay 0-6-0T W38 'Ajax' ensured that vital wartime supplies were available to fuel the war effort. Both locomotives have a military pedigree, 'Waggoner' being built for the Army in 1953 and 'Ajax' having been requisitioned by the Ministry of Munitions for service in Persia when she was constructed in 1918.
Photo: C A Barry
A recreation of 1940s domestic life.

The Saturday evening 'Big Band' concert proved to be a popular addition to the event's programme although the wet conditions saw it take place in a specially erected marquee rather than in the open air as originally planned. The Real Ale bar was exceptionally busy, serving a selection of Isle of Wight brewed ales with pride of place going to 'Calbourne's Resurrection Mild', specially produced for the event by the Ventnor Brewery. The 1940s Weekend is one of a series of special events hosted by the Isle of Wight Steam Railway this year. Further information on forthcoming events, including a visit by 'Thomas the Tank Engine' and our ever popular August Bank Holiday Summer Steam Show can be found HERE.

Photo: C A Barry
The Havenstreet Anti-Aircraft Detachment covers 'Waggoner's departure.
Photo: C A Barry
The Royal Naval Reserve HQ was established in the Waiting Room.
Photo: C A Barry
Wartime travel restrictions did not deter passengers from making their way to Havenstreet.
Photo: C A Barry
The NAAFI Wagon helped keep morale high.
Photo: C A Barry
W38 'Ajax' arrives at Havenstreet with supplies vital to the war effort.
Photo: C A Barry
The military vehicle display was one of the best yet seen at Havenstreet.
Photo: C A Barry
Photo: C A Barry
A casualty is treated in the Field Hospital.
Photo: C A Barry
The Isle of Wight Police Force's French Liaison Officer put in an appearance.
Photo: C A Barry
Real Ale Bar Staff: Derek Bishop, Steve Castle and Phil Upshall.
Photo: C A Barry
The poor weather failed to dampen enthusiasm for the Big Band Concert.

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Page last modified 02/07/07.
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