This Saturday, September 19th, Newtownards will take on a distinctly 1940s feel when the Battle of Britain 75 event takes place at Ards Airfield.
The commemorative event which is being organised by Ards and North Down Borough Council will recreate the sounds of the 40s with a jazz picnic, a vintage fair and a finale flypast.
Newtownards Town Centre will also get into the swing of things with a specially -themed 1940s market in Conway Square. There will also be street theatre and live music in the square throughout the day. The market will run from 9am to 5pm. Many retailers are getting behind the event too with special window displays and vintage decorations in their shops. Look out for lots of bunting! A free shuttle bus is running from South Street to Ards Airfield every half hour from 12 noon.
Speaking about the event, Leigh Nelson, President of Newtownards Chamber of Trade said: “We’ve had a lot of interest from the retailers who are always looking for ways to support events in the local town. We feel the event highlights Ards and what it has to offer and we’re delighted with the free shuttle service being provided especially for the event.”
Out at the Airfield, the Battle of Britain 75 stage programme will commence at 2pm with a Commemorative Service to pay respects and honor the sacrifices made. Dave Martin and The Casino Cats with their smooth sounds from the 40s will then take to the stage, followed by The Syd Lawrence Orchestra. The stage programme will be compered by local broadcaster Frank Mitchell.
At 6.30pm spectators will be invited to look to the skies as a genuine Spitfire and a Hurricane aircraft perform a special fly-past finale over the Air Field. The event will conclude with a performance from the NI Military Wives Choir.
Also on site throughout the day will be a vintage fair from Frock Around The Clock. A display of military vehicles, model planes, street theatre, vintage dancers and a food-fair will make this commemorative event a great day out for all the family.
Gates to the venue are open at 12noon and car-parking and food is available on-site. There will be strictly no vehicular access to the site after 4pm. People are welcome to bring picnics and picnic chairs and rugs are recommended for your comfort. No alcohol is to be brought on site, bar facilities are available. This is a free event.
For further information on this event please contact Ards Visitor Information Centre on (028) 9182 6846 or email ardsvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk