HISTORY enthusiasts braved the rain to enjoy the 16th annual 1940s weekend in Ramsbottom.

The award-winning event returned to the town, courtesy of the East Lancashire Railway and included battle re-enactments, a military parade and 40s style dancing.

Crowds flocked to see a life size replica of a World War Two spitfire plane, which was parked opposite the train station, a display that was contributed to by several local businesses.

On Sunday, the main event saw a military parade make its way through the streets, led by the Greater Manchester Army Cadet Forces Pipe and Drum band.

Guests were able to make their way to the various events by travelling on the iconic East Lancashire Railway.

Chairman, Peter Duncan, who has been involved with organising the event since its inception, said: “The weather wasn’t good but it didn’t seem to put people off, we had a really good crowd as we do every year.

“We try to bring new attractions to every event to keep things growing and we did that again this year, we hope this is an event that will run and run.”