Visitors to Meltham are stepping back in time to the 1940s this weekend.

Hundreds packed the streets today for the village’s wartime-inspired event, which continues on Sunday.

Meltham Memories hosted its ninth event, opening with the grand military parade.

Wartime vehicles, 'victory roll' hairdos and men dressed as soldiers and airmen all filled the bunting-lined streets.

Meltham steps back in time
Meltham steps back in time

Entertainment was hosted by Meltham & Meltham Mills Brass Band outside St Bartholomew’s Church, with the rain failing to put a dampener on jovial spirits.

Organisers Peter and Janet Gilleard said the weather had brought about a slow start to Saturday’s festivities, but the crowds had soon turned out.

"The parade was spectacular", said Peter, 72.

"Considering the weather it’s been amazing the amount of people who have come out in support, and great to see people from further afield."

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One couple who travelled from Sheffield were Tony and Andrea Sayers.

Andrea, 71, said: "We have been taking part in wartime reenactments for more than a decade.

"It’s one of our favourite eras because it was a time when people took a real pride in their appearance."

Tanks for the memories
Tanks for the memories

But while music echoed around Meltham’s streets, a very different noise was used as a soundtrack to the event.

Crews at the fire station managed to dig out an authentic air raid siren, with the chilling sound a reminder village of the struggles faced in the war.

And as the weekend marked the centenary of the Somme, a wreath was laid to commemorate the thousands who lost their lives in the Great War.

Remembering the fashions of the Forties
Remembering the fashions of the Forties

"It was a coincidence that the date fell on the same weekend", organiser Janet said.

"But we’re holding a church service on the Sunday to mark the Battle."

Janet added: "We’re thankful to everyone in the village who help make this weekend possible.

"We get no funding from the council and raise the money for it throughout the year.

"These events really bring the community together in a different and exciting way."