Thousands enjoy festival of Second World War nostalgia at Victory Show in Cosby

War planes, Panzer tanks and infantrymen invaded a pocket of rural Leicestershire at the weekend for a festival of Second World War nostalgia.

The two-day Victory Show drew more than 8,000 visitors to Foxlands Farm, off Croft Road, Cosby.

The military spectacular included army encampments, battle re-enactments, aerobatic displays and tank rides, with many revellers arriving in 1940s attire.

The sight of Spitfires and Hurricanes in the sky brought back a flood of memories for Maureen Torrance, 76, from Cropston.

“I grew up in the East End of London and was just a little girl during the Battle of Britain,” she said.

“When we got bombed out, my mum and dad took us kids out into the fields away from the city and I remember seeing the dog fights in the sky.

“It was just like this – it’s like I’m back there – being a kid I found it fascinating.

“It brings back so many memories.

“Mind you, I wish wars were as friendly as this.”

For many others, the star attraction of the event was yesterday’s fly-past by the Avro Vulcan Cold War bomber, lovingly restored at Bruntingthorpe and the last of its kind still flying.

Rob Doyle, 42, from Ratby, who was enjoying a family day out with wife Andrea 42, and their son, Jacob, three, said: “I was really looking forward to the Vulcan and I think a lot of people here came just for the fly-past.

“Mind you, I think Jacob has been more taken by the remote-control models.”

Andrea said: “We go to a lot of air shows but this is different because the planes are older and not quite as loud so you can enjoy it without ear muffs.

“It’s a great family day out and we’ve loved it.”

Dave Hersey and wife Eileen travelled from their home in Narborough to see what all the fuss was about.

“It’s our first time at the show,” said Dave.

“I think it is terrific, especially being right on our doorstep. I was fascinated by the air displays and the unmanned drones in particular.”

Eileen said: “For such a huge national event, it’s still got a local atmosphere, which is great. It’s really relaxed, with families having picnics.

“The lovely weather helped. With so many events cancelled over the summer, you’ve got to take advantage of it.”

It was the trade stalls, selling period clothing as well as military uniforms and memorabilia that caught the eye of Rachel Bentley, 36, from Ashby.

“I just love all the old hats, scarves and dresses,” she said. “It’s something you rarely see and what strikes you is the quality of things back then.”

The event supported Loros, The Royal British Legion and Blesma – the British Limbless Ex Service Men’s Association.

GALLERY: Cosby Victory Show 2012

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