2015 marks the 75th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain – the greatest aerial conflict of the Second World War, which turned the tide in the war against Germany.
In recognition of this important anniversary, Ards and North Down Borough Council is holding a special commemorative event featuring a Spitfire and Hurricane fly-past, jazz picnic and Vintage Fair at Ards Air Field on Saturday 19 September. The sounds of the 40s will be recreated by headline act The Syd Lawrence Orchestra, known as the ‘Best Big Band in the Land’.
Following an Opening Address and Commemorative Service, Dave Martin and The Casino Cats will start the stage programme at 2pm. Led by the charismatic Dave Martin with his smooth velvety vocals, the band offer authentic smooth sounds from the 40s era with a set list of popular big band tunes.
Next up is the fabulous Syd Lawrence Orchestra. Founded in 1967 by trumpeter and arranger Syd Lawrence, the orchestra has been thrilling audiences in concert halls, theatres, TV shows and music festivals all over Great Britain and Europe for over 40 years. Renowned for its exciting blend of high octane big band swing and classic dance music, The Orchestra’s repertoire ranges from the wartime million sellers of the legendary Glenn Miller, through the era of the great Count Basie Orchestra, to the hit songs of Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald. The concert 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. Both of these famous aircraft were typical of the planes that fought in the Battle of Britain and these restored versions are very rare examples that will lend authenticity to this commemorative event.
Also on site throughout the day will be a vintage fair from Frock Around The Clock. Guaranteed to delight the vintage lover and shopaholic like, the fair will feature a fabulous line-up of around 30 hand-picked local vintage dealers and creative designers offering a huge array of vintage and handmade fashion, jewellery, furniture, home-wares, collectables, gifts, sweet treats and so much more.
A display of military vehicles, street theatre, vintage dancers and a food-fair will make this commemorative event a day out for all the family.
Mayor of Ards and North Down, Alderman Alan Graham, commented: “This commemorative event to mark the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Britain will be a very special and fitting tribute to the men and women who fought in the Second World War. It is important that we continue to remember their sacrifice and the programme we have planned will encourage this as visitors have the opportunity to experience some of the most iconic sights and sounds associated with the period.”
Gates to the venue are open at 12noon and car-parking is available on-site.
For further information on this event please contact Ards Visitor Information Centre on (028) 9182 6846 or email ardsvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk