HUNDREDS of visitors took a step back in time at the White Horse Military Show near Westbury at the weekend.

The two-day show on Saturday and Sunday (August 20 and 21) was staged on the same field off the B3098 where Bratton at War used to be.

Organiser Richard Dalton said: “The show is a completely amateur production and is run by a group of local enthusiasts for enthusiasts.

“During the show we were approached by the British Army who want us to work with them in the future. It’s looking very positive.”

The show is likely to become an annual event and Mr Dalton is already discussing holding it on the same weekend next year.

This year’s event featured arena displays, local groups, 1940s dancing and a vintage fashion show and attracted military history lovers from across the county. 

The attractions included a variety of displays from different periods from World War 1 to the Gulf War, and a unique Women at War display.

The showground was laid out like an army camp, complete with watch towers and gate posts, and featured displays from WW1, WW2, Vietnam, the Cold War and the Gulf War.

There was even a group of American War of Independence re-enactors and a American Wild West shoot-out displays on both days.

More than 20 living history groups and war re-enactors gave displays and demonstrations of kit and equipment, including around 50 military vehicles.

There were a wide variety of stalls selling vintage wares and military kits, as well as a Village Green area selling food and refreshments.

Mr Dalton added: “We tried to create an immersive experience where you can feel like you’ve stepped back in time and feel like you are part of history.”

Many local organisations took part, including the Bratton Silver Band, which opened the show on Saturday. Reverend Rebecca Harris, from All Saints’ Church in Westbury, hosted a Sunday morning service.

The main marquee hosted 1940s-style singers, including Liberty Sisters, Dickie Lines, Blitz Time Sally, May Blossom, Vintage Songbird. There were also war-time dance demonstrations from Swing Out Swindon and Swing, Jazz, Jive!

A second marquee hosted a 1940s fashion show, as well as competitions for best dressed visitor and best display and history talks.

Mark Barton's 1940s cinema showed classic war films, such as The Dambusters, Reach for the Sky, Above Us The Waves and Carve Her Name with Pride.