Gallery: Black Country Living Museum's 1940s weekend shares in wartime spirit

More than 3,000 visitors glammed up to celebrate the bygone era, as soldiers and sweethearts came out in full force.

Ladies put their locks in victory rolls, and gents donned trilbies and Brylcreem as the Tipton Road attraction was transformed with vintage stalls, bands and displays.

Valerie Gaskill, who has worked as a learning assistant at the museum for 16 years, said: "It is wonderful to see the young ones come and indulge in the 1940s lifestyle.

"I love to see all the different costumes and hear the older generation speak about what they remember from the time."

Vintage vehicles from the era, along with civilians and army personnel, also put in an appearance at the show.

Caroline Green, aged 58, from Worcester, said: "This is the third year we have been coming after 16 years of re-enacting at 1940s events around the UK.

"By doing this we bring the war into colour. Children may be taught it in school but it's all in black and white, so we can act out what it was really like for them."

Visitors could also present identity cards to move through 'checkpoints' and take part in austerity-busting workshops.

'Fashion on the ration vintage clothes' displays were held inside, selling everything from bags, dresses and sunglasses.

There was also an air raid scenario acted out and snippets of Churchill's speeches performed live.