The make do and mend spirit of the war time era was alive and well on the first day of Brighouse's 1940s weekend, despite heavy rain.
Hardy revellers lined the streets of the centre in their finest dress, war medals,furs and and brylcreemed hair as they turned back the clock in the town yesterday.
Double the size of last year's event, stalls, outdoor sing-a-longs with Winston Churchill and Hitler and war plane replicas covered the area from Bethel Street to Commercial Street from the morning, where visitors made the most of stood firm against the inclement weather.
Even a spitfire braved the conditions, when it made its heroic journey across the town later in the afternoon.
Meanwhile, others made the most of a lack of wartime rationing of beer as they took shelter and joined in with piano recitals and performances in several pubs and bars.
Vera Lynn and George Formby also put in an appearance at packed out performances at the Civic Hall, where they brought smiles to the faces of audience members.
One of the organisers, Steven Lord, said that he was thrilled that so many had got into the spirit.
He said: "We think that about 20,000 people are here today, which, considering the weather, is great and I think that everyone has enjoyed it regardless.
"We've double the size of the area and the amount of activities and displays is wonderful.
"Hopefully we will have better luck with tomorrow's weather but we will soldier on, whatever happens."The make do and mend spirit of the war time era was alive and well on the first day of Brighouse's 1940s weekend, despite heavy rain.
Dozens of tents displayed replicas and original wartime items to bring the feel of the decade alive.
Luftwaffe Airfield Re-enactment Group member, Melvin Hoppey, displayed maps and gave demonstrations of life saving equipment.
He said: "The weather really encourages the make do and mend attitude that they had in the 1940s and I think the atmosphere here is brilliant."
Pianist Carolyn Stafford, who entertained the troops at the Old Ship Inn with some upbeat wartime favourites, said: "It's the first time that I've been here and I've absolutely loved it, despite the rain.
"Obviously, being inside helps but I think that the efforts people have gone to are fantastic."
The 1940s weekend will continue today with dances, re-enactments and talks.
Brighouse 1940's Weekend: Full report and pictures from huge event - see pictures from the Sunday event too. Click here
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