Woodhall Spa 1940s Festival: Organisers hail 'most successful' event

News imageWoodhall Spa 1940s Festival 2022 Men and women dressed in 1940s military uniform with two women driving a military jeepWoodhall Spa 1940s Festival 2022
The festival attracts hundreds of military vehicles and "passionate re-enactors every year", organisers say. This crew were seen on Broadway on Sunday

A wartime-themed festival attracted the biggest crowd in its 10-year history as it bounced back from Covid cancellations.

The Woodhall Spa 1940s Festival entertained 50,000 visitors with shows and re-enactments across the weekend.

Andy Hunter, chair of the organising committee, said he believed there was "pent-up" demand for events.

News imageWoodhall Spa 1940s Festival 2022 Man dressed in period 1940s policing outfit on a vintage bikeWoodhall Spa 1940s Festival 2022
Hundreds dress up in period gear for the event at Woodhall Spa
News imageWoodhall Spa 1940s Festival 2022 Winston Churchill impersonator Steve McTigueWoodhall Spa 1940s Festival 2022
Winston Churchill impersonator Steve McTigue dressed as the famous 20th Century leader

Mr Hunter said: "This weekend has been by far the most successful event we've held in our 10-year history.

"The pent-up appetite for large events like this and the extremely good weather enticed a record number of attendees to Woodhall Spa, and they created an incredible atmosphere throughout."

He said there had been "overwhelming feedback" from visitors on social media.

News imageWoodhall Spa 1940s Festival 2022 People dressed as wartime soldiers sitting on military vehiclesWoodhall Spa 1940s Festival 2022
The event was under threat of being pulled due to sensitivities over the war in Ukraine

This year's event was the first time the festival had been held since the start of the pandemic.

Organisers previously said they would raise funds to support Ukrainian refugees following a consultation earlier in the year.

A spokesperson said details about their charitable fundraising would be released in due course.

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