THE sun shone as iconic planes from the Second World War flew over a town centre for its annual 1940’s day celebrations.

Hundreds of people stared up at the sky as a Spitfire, Lancaster Bomber and Hurricane fighter glided over their heads in Darwen town centre on Saturday afternoon.

All three aircraft were expected to flyover at the same time but due to bad weather in Ireland and Blackpool there were delays, with the Lancaster Bomber sailing past at 1.15pm followed by the Hurricane fighter and Spitfire at 2.10pm.

Despite the minor setback members of the crowd still described the event's first ever flyover as 'unbelievable' and 'magical'.

Friends Matt Byrom, 29, from Darwen, and Lauren Johnson, 29, from Oswaldtwistle said: "It was unbelievable and standing in the square was the best place to see it. It's brilliant every year but that felt extra special."

Darwen was travelling back seven decades in time for the event's ninth 1940s day, with war-time nostalgia sweeping Church Street, Bridge Street and The Circus.

The three wartime planes all came from The Royal Air Force’s Battle of Britain Memorial Flight based at RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire.

Organiser Samantha Taylor, 32, who was spearheading the event for the first time, said: “I'm really pleased with how today turned out. It's a fantastic example of the Darreners' spirit.

"The weather has been a blessing and instilled a sense of real pride. The Lancaster bomber flyover was really special, with only two left flying in the world and one of them coming to Darwen."

The day-event also included live wartime music on a special stage from Poppy Holliday, Denise Morgan, and Daisy-Bell Dumsday and from strolling musicians among the crowd.

Several wartime military vehicles, including 1942 Ford Jeeps, were on display while a 1940s-style Tea Dance was also held in the afternoon.

Jim Bennett, 73, from Bury and Callum Cartner, 22, from Middleton, were representing the Military Vehicles Trust for the day and said: "We were here last year and think this year is even bigger and better than it was 12 months ago. It feels like the community has really come together."

There was also a Punch and Judy show, face-painting, a ‘Living War’ exhibition, bouncy castle, climbing wall and scout activities. Bridge Street also hosted a 1940’s Petticoat Lane-style market.

Punch and Judy Show performer Mike Falcon, 75, from Witton, said he was 'amazed' to see a Lancaster bomber flying over East Lancashire.

He said: "There were just 3,200 produced during the Second World War and to see one of those flyover Darwen was incredible."

Dozens of people were dressed in military garb while others wore gangster outfits and traditional 1940s attire, including from hit shows Blackadder and Dad's Army.

Peter Tayloy, 73, who was dressed as Captain Mainwaring from Dad's Army, said: "I have been to every Darwen 1940s Day since it started back in 2010. It's brilliant because it educates children and locals about the history of the war and the town as well."

Darrener gangster Tricky Troy, 36, said: "The organisers have done a terrific job and it's one of the best turnouts for 1940s day. There has been plenty going on."

Fellow gangster Gary Taps, 34, added: "It's the pinnacle and has brought a tear to my eye."

While Cllr Roy Davies, the Mayor of Darwen Town Council, described the event as 'magic' and said: "It's done what events are designed for in this town and showcased the best of Darwen."