1940s day - 23rd august

For the first time the Avon Valley Railway, the Military Vehicle Trust and the Oldland Show are combining to give an exciting trip back in time from the present day to the 1940s.

For the past few years the Railway has held a very successful 1940s Day. This year, in order to create a bigger event, we are combining our Forties Day with the Oldland Show. All visitors will be directed to the Oldland Show where there is free parking.

You can then take the train from Oldland Common or the bus from outside the showground to Bitton Station, which will represent a country station during the Second World War. On hand will be a small local Home Guard unit manning their anti-aircraft gun (as featured in the film “Atonement”) alongside an 800 million candle-power searchlight. Nearby they’ll proudly show you a cashed Messerschmitt that they helped to bring down during a recent air raid, a Bedford Radio Truck and a Canadian Gun Tractor – plus motorbikes and civilian vehicles. You might even find some misbehaving evacuees and have the chance to jive to the music of the period! From Bitton Station you can jump on the train again and continue down to the river.

At Avon Riverside you will find an encampment with a small contingency of American vehicles and troops. With them will be half-track vehicles, Jeeps, GMC trucks and, to care for their welfare, a typical WWII First Aid tent and personnel. Please come and support us and if possible come in period dress and relive the 1940s atmosphere. Train ticket prices for this event are as follows:

• Adult Day Rover: £6.50
• Over 60 Day Rover: £5.50
• Child Day Rover: £5.00

Day Rovers offer the best value for money, allowing you unlimited travel all day, enabling you to get on and off as you please. However, the usual line singles and returns are available at the usual price plus £1.

Updated: Tickets can be purchased on board the train (cash only) or from the Booking Office at Bitton (card and cash). The usual discount vouchers and member’s discounts apply. Please note: Parking is not available at Bitton Station (with exception of disabled parking). All visitors arriving by car will be directed to the Oldland Show grounds. Train times are to the usual ‘A’ timetable, plus a demonstration freight train running along the line too. Updated: 19/08/08