In 1979 the film Yanks was released and shown in cinemas across the world.

The Hollywood WWII epic starring Richard Gere and Vanessa Redgrave depicted the American troops stationed in the North waiting to storm France on D-Day.

Much of the movie was shot in Saddleworth.

To mark the village’s time under the spotlight a 1940s themed event was launched in 2001 and the Yanks weekend was born.

It returns over the weekend of August 6/7 with a packed itinerary of nostalgic activities, including a Battle of Britain Memorial fly-over.

Organisers are hoping to have not only the Lancaster bomber but also a Spitfire and a Hurricane.

The event is based at Saddleworth School, Uppermill and includes military themed displays, vehicles and stalls.

Live entertainment will take place at the school and Tea Dance Saturday will be hosted at the civic hall from 11am-4pm.

A still from the 1979 filming of Yanks. Pictured are Wendy Morgan and Lisa Eichhorn (Richard Gere's leading lady) who are visiting Stalybridge for an exhibition to mark the 35th anniversary of the making of the film.

On Sunday a parade will go through the village featuring one of the largest military and civilian vehicle convoys in the North.

Veterans of the Normandy landing or any Royal British Legion members are invited to a coffee morning (Contact Paul - 07709 052501)

People wearing 1940s uniforms will get free admission but organisers are asking German re-enactors to not wear Black (SD) Allgemeine SS uniforms with red armbands.

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Waffern SS combat uniforms are welcome as long as SS insignia is not displayed.

Admission: £5 adult, under 16s £3 and a family ticket £12 (2 adults & 2 children under 16).

The civic hall will also host an evening boogie featuring the Kalamazoo dance band (Tickets 18 inc hot war time supper).

For the latest up to date information search for the event on Facebook.