1940s Weekend
23rd & 24th APRIL 2005
A nostalgic tribute to the 1940s - a journey down memory lane to the 1940s and the days of ration books, blackouts, make do and mend and, of course, the forces' sweethearts.
The 2005 1940s weekend was the most successful to date with crowds that genuinely broke all previous records, encouraged no doubt by the fine weather. Cheddleton, Consall and Kingsley & Froghall stations were at full capacity as people flocked to join in.
The following pictures give a record of the event and a flavour of what it was all about. Credit is due to all the paid staff and volunteers for making the event the success that it was. If you missed it this year, the event will be repeated in 2006 - make sure to join us then !
The staff at Kingsley & Froghall tea room
Both tea rooms were at full capacity for most of the day. The staff at Kingsley & Froghall hadn't appreciated the full magnitude of this when this picture was taken first thing in the morning. They soon found out, however !
Carol and Margaret having words, overlooked by the Fallen Madonna
Outside, there were military displays, military vehicles and a good selection of classic cars. In addition, many well know characters of the period were mingling with the crowds.
Pike & Jonesey at Froghall, with female escorts
The trains were packed but, if you managed to get on, Consall was the place to visit next. The Germans had invaded and were taking no prisoners.
Awaiting the incoming train, two armed Germans at Consall
Even the new platform had been invaded by the incoming forces. Although the Black Lion Inn was tantalizingly close, there was no realistic chance of escape.
On guard on the 'up' platform
Under close scrutiny, the incoming service brings more evacuees from Cheddleton
Who were then herded off the train in large numbers
A war time show by the Cheddleton Players was running in the marquee and attracting large crowds throughout the day.
The stage is set for another performance
And then another show begins as war is declared
Cheddleton was even busier with record crowds and queues soon formed to enlist.
You're in the army now !
Leekbrook was the end of the line and just as well as the Germans had taken over there as well. No-one was getting past this contingent alive.
An ambush at the end of the line at Leekbrook
If you have enjoyed this page, please join us in 2006 for an even bigger and better 1940s weekend.