DARWEN turned the clock back 60 years as the town held a fundraising 1940s day.

Townspeople dressed in period costume and enjoyed music and a host of 1940s-themed attractions to raise money for soldiers’ charities.

Saturday’s event was the second successive year a fundraising event has been held.

More than £3,000 has been raised from the day – and the proceeds are still being counted.

The idea was formed when a group of ladies vowed to raise as much money as possible after seeing pictures of killed and injured soldiers being flown home from Afghanistan on the news.

Last year’s event was expanded this time around thanks to £1,000 sponsorship from the town council.

One of the event’s organisers, Pat Melia, said: “We just thought we should be doing something.

“It went extremely well, and it was enjoyed by everyone.

“And a lot of people turned up in 1940s costume.”

Military vehicles were on display. Raffles helped to boost the proceeds.

And there was also a brass band performance and stalls were manned by members of the Royal British Legion and the Mothers’ Union.

Ms Melia said: “The people of Darwen are the most generous I have ever come across.

“As soon as you mention soldiers their purses just open.”

Market trader Brenda Cronshaw got into the spirit, wearing an authentic 1940s apron and setting up a wheelbarrow display and rationing supplies.

She said: “It was very successful, and the music was absolutely fantastic.”

Town mayor Paul Browne said: “The 1940s day will be another success next year, that’s for sure.”

Sunnyhurst councillor Tony Melia, whose mother was one of the organisers, confirmed that the total, which will be shared among soldiers’ charities, was currently at £3,000.

Darwen Town Council recorded a vote of thanks to the organisers.