ALLIED uniforms of every colour were in evidence at the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railways war weekend event that transported visitors back to the 1940s.

Trains were polished and civvies dressed to the nines to welcome the crowds at all the stations taking part in what has been hailed an "outstanding event" over the weekend of April 25 and 26.

Trains were packed - often to standing - as visitors and re-enactors passed between the host of activities and exhibits at the stations. And along the way there was plenty of musical entertainment on the trains as well as in the entertainment marquee at Toddington.

At Winchcomnbe the really impressive audio air-raid shelter experience was moving for some and scary for others. Visitors were able to get their Identity Cards stamped before boarding the train again.

Everyone kept their guard against spivs opening their battered cases full of ill-gotten wares: and very often under the watchful eyes of the military or civilian police, just looking for the chance to clap on the cuffs.

Gotherington - opened by its owners specially for the occasion - was the perfect place to enjoy the weekend sunshine and witness the Nottingham Home Guard and the Gloucestershire Regiment going about their routine - which included commandeering the pump trolley on the siding. Of particular interest was the Royal Ovserver Corps exhibit which also illustrated the life of Violette Szabo, nee Bushell, a special operations agent during World War 2.

Sue and Phil Harbron, who led the team who organised the event, were delighted. "It's been a terrific success," Sue commented. "The weather couldn't have been better despite the threats from the weatherman. The Spitfire was a real highlight and there were some who wiped away a tear, remembering the sacrifices made by so many so that we can enjoy an event like this today."

Countless memorable scenarieos were played out and perhaps one of the most impressive was the RAF Operations Plotting Room, set up in the diesel shed. Fully equipped, this really brought home the enormity of the Battle of Britain.

Plans are already underway for next year's event on April 23 and 24.