BLACKOUT curtains, ration cards and American G.I.s returned to Devon railway last weekend.

Jeeps were transporting troops between camps, evacuees were arriving and even members of the Africa Korps were spotted bragging a trip ride.

The time warp came courtesy of the South Devon Railway’s 1940s Heritage Weekend, two days of living history held against a backdrop of live entertainment, re-enactors, historic vehicles and visitors, many of whom came dressed 1940s-style for the occasion.

Ewan Crago from Chudleigh in Finnish Army summer uniform.
(Steve Pope / MDA)
Pilot Officer Will Cartwright waits with rail warrant to his next posting.
Pilot Officer Will Cartwright waits with rail warrant to his next posting. (Steve Pope / MDA)

People were able to take a rail journey back to the past, with steam trains offering transport from Buckfastleigh to Staverton station where a military camp had been set up.

As well as experiencing the 1940s era there was a chance to experience suitable live music from the period, courtesy of The Liberty Sisters and the South Devon Big Band, plus the South West Lindy Hoppers were on hand to demonstrate, and teach, all those latest  dance moves – 1940s style.

South Devon Railway festival
(Steve Pope / MDA)
Sorting the bumpf - Nevaeh Ford at work in the typing pool.
Sorting the bumpf - Nevaeh Ford at work in the typing pool. (Steve Pope / MDA)
Learning to Lindy Hop - one to keep the wartime spirits up.
Learning to Lindy Hop - one to keep the wartime spirits up. (Steve Pope / MDA)