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Steve
says: "We
have always had an interest in WW2 and the 40's as both our fathers fought
in that war. Lesley's dad was rescued from the beaches at Dunkirk in
1940 and my dad took part in the D-Day operation and fought until his bren gun carrier ran over a mine. Other close relatives served in the
Royal Navy (Russian convoys) and Royal Air Force (Battle of Britain
pilot - killed).
"We moved to Peterborough in 2003, having live in St. Albans, Herts for
the previous 20+ years. Soon after our arrival we started taking
ballroom dance classes and particularly enjoyed Jive and Rock & Roll. We
found the swing band music of the 40's particularly suited to these
dances and it was a short step (sic!) to attending 40's themed dances.
"Our first event was the Ramsey weekend in 2006 and we were completely
fascinated by the numbers of people in period dress. Since then Lesley's
collection of 1940's civvie clothing has exploded and we now have a double
wardrobe full of uniforms.
Lesley says: "This was the time when women were actually liberated
from the housework to do war work. At my first re-enactment event, I
went as Rosie the Riveter.
"I love the fashion of the 40's. All the women
seemed to make an effort to look feminine and attractive in those hard
times and the hairstyles were, and are, wonderful. I love browsing
through the clothes on the trade stands at 40's events but do think that
some of the traders prices are a bit 'over-the-top'.
"Having been to a number of events in a solo/duo capacity, membership of
a group was the next step for us. We looked at a number of groups and
decided that Northern 40's was the one for us. We have found everyone so
friendly and it's great to be associated with like minded people who
respect the values which existed in WW2 Great Britain and who honour all
the servicemen and civilians from all sides who fought for their
country. Steve is looking forward to building up his RAF collection so
he can contribute to a good RAF display."
Enjoyable experiences: "Having people compliment us on our efforts
to 'look the part' and being able to encourage younger people to
remember the sacrifices made, ultimately, on their behalf. Most of all,
being able to sit and chat to other re-enactors who we've never met
before and being accepted immediately like old friends and being greeted
as such at the next event."
Less enjoyable experiences: "Having been welcomed onto the balcony
of the control tower at East Kirkby airfield by a WAAF re-enactress,
being asked to leave by another as our presence would encourage too many
other re-enactors to go up there." |
