WEST Somerset is going into an 80-year-old time-warp for the weekend, turning back the clock to re-create the Dad’s Army decade of the 1940s as part of a feast of nostalgia expected to attract thousands of visitors to the towns and villages along the West Somerset Railway line.

The West Somerset 1940s weekend is runs from Friday (September 8) through to Sunday (September 10) and the organisers are hoping that it will be one of the best ever.

“Last year’s activities were overshadowed by the death of the Queen and before that by Covid,” said Robin Wichard, who dreamed up the nostalgic extravaganza five years ago.

“This year, despite national and international problems, enthusiasm for the event is as high as ever and we have a huge range of events and entertainment to celebrate those epic years of the ‘Forties’. There will be something for everyone.”

Girls' day out 1940s style for this weekend in West Somerset.
Girls' day out 1940s style for this weekend in West Somerset. (Terry Walker)

Re-enactment enthusiasts have already signed up in their hundreds to bring an authentic Forties atmosphere to weekend events and look-alike celebrities riding the trains will include King George VI, Queen Elizabeth, and Laurel and Hardy.

And last year’s favourite ‘Viv the Spiv’ will be back offering a wide range of ‘knocked off’ goods.

All stations along the line will be putting on special events and displays and it is hoped to have a freight train on the line hauling period vehicles.

At Minehead, there will be live entertainment and attractions, including classic vehicles, model aircraft and tank displays, and steam traction engines.

A highlight will be the traditional Saturday night dance on the Minehead Station platform featuring the Liberty Sisters and the Hot House Combo.

Dunster events will include a Land Army camp and Blue Anchor station will feature a display of 1940s costumes.

Watchet Station will be the centre of Home Front displays with live music throughout the town and a vintage fair on the Esplanade.

Watchet’s celebrations start on Friday with a pie and pint night at the Boat Museum with entertainment from singers Tabitha and May Blossom and a tea dance at the Royal British Legion.

Getting in the swing of it for the West Somerset 1940s weekend.
Getting in the swing of it for the West Somerset 1940s weekend. (Terry Walker)

Stogumber Station will feature a 1940s-style shop, lindy-hop dancers and other live performances, vintage cars, and cream teas.

‘Jones the Butcher’, from Dad’s Army, will be found at Crowcombe Heathfield Station, while at the end of the line, Bishops Lydeard Station will host special displays and live music.

Robin Wichard added: “We are delighted with the way things are going and all stations are as usual making a fantastic effort.

“The weekend is not just for the military historian - for whom there is much to see - but, above all, it’s a fun event for the whole family.”