MORE than 8,000 people stepped back in time to the 1940s and beyond for a taste of what life was like during the Second World War.

Checkpoints and assembly of more than 60 military vehicle greeted visitors to the National Trust village of Lacock on Saturday and Sunday.

John Wardle, the organiser of Lacock at War, said visitors had responded tremendously to the two-day display of First and Second World War military hardware and vehicles.

“The weather has been really kind to us and the field has been chock a block all weekend.

“We had around 5,000 visitors on Saturday and 3,000 on Sunday.

“We’ve already set provisional dates for next year’s event. It will be held on August 17 and 18.”

A special display of vehicles, including a First World War bicycle, and a 1916 Triumph despatch rider’s motorcycle, marked the 100th anniversary of the end of the 1914-18 War.

One of the highlights of this year’s event was a display of five Auxillary Fire Service vehicles, including two Green Goddesses and a Bedford RL command unit.

The annual display was organised by the West Wiltshire Area of the Military Vehicle Trust.

Exhibitors included a recreation of a First World War trench system by Aaron Couldrake of Westbury.

Members of four local Women’s Institutes in Lacock, Derry Hill, Melksham and Market Lavington, also sold out on their cake stall.

Entertainment included live music from 1940s-style singers Miss Madeline Brown and Mr Johnny Victory, and a vintage fashion show by Lady She and Friends.

Other highlights included an energetic display by Melksham Rock ‘n’ Rollers and music by DJ UXB.

Outdoor displays featured 26 living history re-enactment groups, as well as trade stalls, a beer tent and a barbecue.