VISITORS to a Kidderminster attraction are being urged to soak up the spirit of the 1940s with the return of its popular historic weekend events.

Severn Valley Railway (SVR) will host ‘Step Back to the 1940s’ weekends on June 24-25 and July 1-2, which will see the entire place transformed to provide a snapshot of the decade.

Famous faces, including Sir Winton Churchill and King George VI will be travelling alongside passengers on the 16 mile line from Kidderminster to Bridgnorth.

A battle re-enactment will be held at The Engine House Visitor Centre at Highley while Kidderminster will host an exciting firefighting display courtesy of the NFA & AFS Vehicles Group.

Engine House will also host a vintage market, while visitors can also get an insight into wartime life with exhibits including a replica air-raid shelter and a bombed-out building.

Musical entertainment will be provided by Paul Harper, 1940s crooner Kevin Mack and the D-Day Darlings.

Big Band shows, on June 24 and July 1 evenings, will feature the Worcestershire Jazz Orchestra and special guests, the D-Day Darlings (additional charge applies).

There is also set to be appearances from a Lancaster and Spitfire courtesy of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight - subject to weather conditions - during the first weekend.

Clare Gibbard, the SVR’s marketing and communications manager, said: “Thousands of visitors head to the SVR each year for our 1940s events, which take over the Railway and transform it into a colourful, light-hearted celebration of 1940s Britain.

“It is always wonderful to see so many people who make such an effort to dress up in fantastic period costumes and really enter into the spirit of this ever-popular event.”

Tickets start at £24.70 for adults and £16.20 for children or £70.60 for a family of two adults and up to four children. Two-day Rover tickets are also available. Tickets for the Big Band concerts cost £11 each and pre-booking is recommended.

To book visit www.svr.co.uk or call 01562 757900.