In a brand new special event for 2003 on the Isle of Wight Steam Railway the atmosphere of the Front Line Branch Line was recreated over the weekend of 21st-22nd June.

The Havenstreet Anti-Aircraft Gun Detachment on Parade.

The Railways location was particularly appropriate for the event, since the Island was very much at the forefront of action on the homefront during the early years of the war. Not only was the Island a restricted travel area, but elements of the 6th Battalion, the Black Watch were actually based in the village of Havenstreet during this period (hence the title of the event). The event portrayed the Island in 1941 when the UK was at its most isolated, The "Home Front" was its theme.

Land Army girls (Left to Right) Genea Corney, Anne Deegan and Julia Snashall take a break from filling sand bags.

A full programme of activities took place at Havenstreet Station on both days of the event, special attractions included displays of wartime military and civilian vehicles, wartime military and railway memorabilia exhibition, Jitterbug dancing show and wartime fashions quiz. The station was crowded with members of the 1940's Society, dressed in period clothing, mixing with our many visitors.

Members of the 1940's Society added to the period atmosphere.

Hunslet Austerity WD198 'Royal Engineer' hauled the heavy Troop Trains throughout the event with former Woolwich Arsenal 0-4-0ST, Hawthorn Leslie built W37 'Invincible', ensuring that the special military train got the vital war supplies through to the front line.

The Prime Minister made a morale-raising visit to the Front Line.

WD198 'Royal Engineer' leads a Troop Train into Havenstreet as W37 'Invincible' marshals stock for the Military Train.

For further pictures of the Front Line Branch Line event click HERE