Heywood 1940s Day

Date published: 24 June 2018

Now in its seventh year, the popular Heywood 1940s day returned on Saturday (23 June).

The fun-packed day had something for everyone to enjoy.

A jive spectacular on the Friday night, featuring music from The Swing Commanders and the fantastic GI Jive, lead up to the big day.

Saturday morning saw an array of military vehicles arriving, including a full replica Hurricane and Messerschmitt 109, military tanks courtesy of Heywood Tanks, Steam Engines, military displays from most nations, vehicles and dancing.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cotton Town Hot Club were back by popular demand and the wonderful sounds of the Littleborough Brass Band could be heard all afternoon.

Evacuees were waved off from the East Lancashire Railway Heywood Station by parents and MP Liz McInnes, before returning for afternoon tea at the Jo Cox Vintage Street Party. A second tea party took place on Mission Street with sandwiches, cake and jelly for everyone in vintage apparel.

A short Service of Remembrance to commemorate the centenary of World War One and all who served in the Forgotten Wars, took place in the Memorial Gardens.

https://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/119875/heywood-1940s-day-remembrance-service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The streets were lined for the Town’s Official Armed Forces Day Parade, leaving The Heywood Pub at 1300 hours prompt. Leading with the official standards, veterans and cadets alike marched along with the Manchester Army Cadet Brass Band and Littleborough Brass Band around the town and returning to The Heywood Pub.

A special balloon display featured in the parade from Blue Rose Gifts, who also had a war bootcamp in their car park.

Stalls and children activities included a miniature steam railway and carousel outside the Civic Centre. Across the road at St Luke’s, the NAAFI was open and the concert kicked off with Marina Mae, followed by acts including Kats Dance, voice and music, instruments and acting from the era with talent from the town.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Market Street shops dressed to impress, a vintage bus was driving around the town and a real Spitfire flew overhead during the afternoon, a fly-past from Britain of Memorial Flight.

Mike Goldrick Blinds & Curtains hosted the Backstep Boogie Club with the Home Guard outside guarding an unexploded bomb with air raid re-enactments in Tilly's Tea Room.

Rides were enjoyed on the vintage fair at Longford Street car park, along with the delights of a Barrell Organ, playing all day.

Back by popular demand at JazBa was singing sensation Patelvis (Indian Elvis), plus children’s fairground rides at Longford Street Carpark and Heywood Magic Market and Lille de Carlo singing at the annual St James's Tea Dance.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liz McInnes MP said: “This event is always a special occasion, and this weekend was no different. I was delighted to join the many shop workers and residents in 1940s style dress and to see the terrific community spirit on display.

"I’d like to thank all those volunteers who worked so hard to organise the many fantastic events which took place, and I congratulate them on helping to bring the community together. It was a resounding success and I’m already looking forward to next year’s event.”