THE RE-ENACTORS AND THE SPIRIT OF THE 1940's!

It's the re-enactors that make an event!  Without them, however authentic the venue is, it's empty.  There may be bunting, displays or steam trains but it's the re-enactors that turn the clock back and make it real, magically transporting us back in time.

Rain or shine they turn up to the many events, sometimes travelling from all over the UK throughout the season.  Sometimes they stroll or promenade.  Sometimes they bring vehicles or exhibitions and displays. They try to dress as authentically as they can and many study the history of WW11. They reminisce, share their knowledge or just give the visitors a chance to chat, and give their time freely, they are volunteers.

And it's not just the themed 1940s events that attract so many re-enactors.  There's also another growing trend for people to dress up and attend Vintage and Militaria Fairs. 

The organisers are starting to encourage this. (Pictured - Living History Re-enactment Group at Militaria, Stoneleigh 2015).  Is this a new fashion trend, keeping history alive or something more sociologically important. Or are we trying to re-create the spirit of 1940's Britain?  Whatever it is, it's a visual statement from people of all ages and all walks of life. A 21st Century phenomena!