CROWDS came from far and wide to the East Lancashire Railway over the Bank Holiday for a nostalgic trip back to the 1940s.

There were thousands of happy visitors of all ages at the annual 1940s weekend held on the railway and its stations in Bury, Ramsbottom and Rawtenstall.

There was a packed programme of events including battle re-enactments and steam train trips as well as vintage and military stalls

A particular highlight of the weekend was a flypast of a Spitfire on Saturday afternoon.

Organisers said it was potentially the best event they had put on.

Kate Walker, marketing manager for the railway, said a lot of hard work had gone into the event.

She said: “It’s been a fantastic weekend. The atmosphere was great and everyone was really buzzing to be here.

“It’s such a great family occasion and the atmosphere is contagious. I think that’s what keeps people coming back year after year.

“It’s a real feel good event with plenty going on and everyone is really supportive of it.”

The event is put on each year by the team at the East Lancashire Railway and they are supported over the weekend by over 700 volunteers.