Welshpool ready to step back into the 1940s this weekend

Welshpool is set to take its annual journey back to the 1940s this weekend, but organisers warn this could well be the last.

The Welshpool 1940s Weekend has become a welcome fixture in the town’s social calendar, bringing hundreds of visitors into the town for three days of nostalgic entertainment and exhibitions.

The event is the result of months of planning from a hard working band of volunteers, but as the event prepares to be bigger and better than ever, there is a warning from the team behind it.

In a “Help Keep Welshpool’s 1940s Weekend Alive!”, the group has launched a donations page to help cover the £25,000 costs of running the event.

“Our much-loved, free community event brings history to life with vintage music, re-enactors, iconic vehicles, and even a real Spitfire,” the message states. As this is primarily a free event for the public to enjoy we have to raise considerable funds (over £2,300 each and every month) to make it happen, not an easy task.”

“Without enough funding, this could be the last one.”

So, what can we expect this weekend?

Whether you wish to listen/dance to vintage performers, admire a Spitfire or Mustang aeroplane close up, take a look at classic cars and military vehicles, learn about the various items of memorabilia that will be on display, then you are in for a fabulous weekend, writes lead organiser Alan Crowe.

Tickets for the Friday afternoon variety show, The Swing Commanders and the Blitz Ball can be purchased in advance from Welshpool Jewellers, Riffels, Hardy's Bookstore, via the website or pay on the door.

A vintage bus will be giving rides in return for a donation around the town on the hour every hour, apart from 1pm, from the bus station in Church Street Car Park. Under 15yrs must be accompanied.

A Narnia Exhibition will take place in New Street.

Entertainers will be performing inside and outside the Town Hall, Puzzle Square, and Raven Inn.
Working horses will be on display at the top of Park Lane.

A number of local businesses have dressed their windows.

Broad Street and High Street will be closed to the public between the hours of 8am and 6pm on both Saturday 27^th & Sunday 28^th September. Seven Stars Car Park will be closed to public parking from 6pm, Friday 26th.

Model displays can be seen in the Corn Exchange.

The displays, entertainment on street etc is free for everyone to enjoy but collection buckets will be located around the town for donations to help keep the event going.

A firing demonstration is planned for both Saturday and Sunday (subject to confirmation) at 2pm top of Park Lane. Anyone with a nervous disposition or timid children or pets are advised to stay clear from the area.

A fun fair will also be in town in Berriew Street Car Park.

If you wish to donate to keeping the event alive, click here.