VISITORS to Radipole Park and Gardens were transported back to the time of the Second World War at the weekend.

A 1940s fun day was held on Saturday afternoon to raise money for a new sensory garden, which is one of a number of amenities planned to be installed in the future.

The sun was out in full force as visitors flocked to the park and gardens to take part in the day’s activities.

There were classic games, including hook a duck and splat the rat, meanwhile visitors were treated to live music from retro-singers The Decadettes and The Mill Street Jazz Band.

Mike Goulden, Chairman of the Friends of Radipole Park and Gardens, who organised the event, said: “We always hold a big fun day during August. We chose the 1940’s theme because our garden's heritage links to both World Wars.

“After the First World War there was mass unemployment and the government issued cheap loans for municipal works - to benefit the town. That’s around the time when Westham Bridge was opened. Then all this land was reclaimed. The park was built during the Second World War and was taken over by the US forces as a munition and storage base for D-Day."

A tent was erected opposite the military vehicles, filled with pictures and memories of wartime Weymouth.

Mr Goulden added: “We’re trying to get people who were around in Second World War to donate pieces of written history, so when we build a café we can have a heritage book. Which will include local people’s memories of the war. We have got some of these on display today.”

“We have been busy all day and have received a lot of great comments from people. There is a massive mix of different generations and that’s what the garden and park should be about.”

Tony Smykowski, who is a member of the All Forces Re-enactment Association (AFRA), brought along his 1944 Willy’s Jeep to the event, along with several pieces of authentic Second World War equipment.

Meanwhile, Poppy Butcher showcased her 1942 Willy’s Jeep, which she allowed families inside, so they could sit behind the wheel of a Second World War vehicle.

She said: “Everyone has been so friendly, and some of the stuff on display here today has brought back many memories.”

Those attending the afternoon event said they thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

Dave Warren from Portland said: “We’ve loved it, it’s been really nice. It feels very family friendly. We have done it all - hooked the ducks and splat the rat. We even went on the mini-steam train. The jazz band were fantastic as well.”

Tom Willet attended the event with his partner Su Sinha and their daughter Leela, aged 6.

He said: “It’s really nice that they’ve been talking about Weymouth during the Second World War and the town’s local history, including its links with the US. Not a lot of people know about that.”

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