Wartime returns to the Cotswolds (From Tewkesbury Admag)

Wartime returns to the Cotswolds

10:00am Sunday 10th February 2013 in Tewkesbury

HISTORY buffs can dust off their identity cards and ration books for a special event on the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway (GWR).

The volunteer-run enterprise is running its first-ever ‘War in the Cotswolds’ event, on Saturday, April 27, and Sunday, April 28.

The railway, which operates heritage train services between Cheltenham Racecourse, Toddington and Laverton, is planning a light-hearted wartime weekend.

Organiser David Miles said: “We want to capture something of the days when everyone pulled together for their country and the railways played such a vital role in the war effort,” he said.

Britain’s railways played an enormous part in keeping the country mobile during the war years including the strategically-important line between Stratford and Cheltenham.

The weekend will offer a host of activities including period music, forces personnel on duty or on leave, the fire auxiliary service and period civilian and military vehicles.

Visitors will be invited to come along in 1940s attire and if they have an appropriate classic vehicle, to bring that along too.

“We’re keen to hear from anyone who has anything to offer,” said Mr Miles.

“Whether local church groups, schools or service clubs, as well as those who might want to run a stall selling 1940s memorabilia.”

For details, visit gwsr.com or e-mail