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Huge 1940s weekend turnout prompts safety concerns on North Norfolk Railway
Alex Grice from the Lobster with the overall shopfront award. Picture: ALLY McGILVRAY - Credit: ALLY McGILVRAY
It was already one of the biggest events of its kind.
But North Norfolk Railway's 1940s weekend proved so popular this year that organisers were forced to stop selling tickets on day one amid concerns over safety.
Thousands of visitors - many in period costume - converged on Sheringham, Holt and Weybourne as the heritage line transported passengers back in time.
The trip down memory lane also included military encampments set up round town, live music from the time, and a 40s fashion show.
Reflecting on day one which ended with a parade of vehicles from the 40s era, Trevor Eady, general manager at North Norfolk Railway, said: 'It's fantastic to see so many people.
North Norfolk Railway 1940s Weekend at Sheringham.Picture: ANTONY KELLY - Credit: Archant
'This has been an event at the railway here that has been going on for probably getting on for 20 years now and every year it grows. And, I have to say, today is the first time in the time I've been here that we've actually had to shut the doors and stop selling tickets because we had so many people on the whole site.
'We were very concerned that there would not be seats for people who wanted to get back to Holt or back to Sheringham later. That's the first time we've done that and it's a good sign.'
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Local businesses also got in on the act with special displays to mark the occasion, with the Lobster pub, which sported bullet holes on the walls and had World War Two jeeps parked outside, winning the overall prize for best show.
Alex Grice, a waiter at the bar, said: 'We all like to get dressed up and look nice. We put a lot of effort in (to our display) this year, there is a terrific town spirit and everybody enjoys themselves.'
The 1940s weekend extravaganza continues into Sunday when it will be brought to a close with a people's parade, starting at Wyndham Street, at 4pm. All those in period clothing are welcome to assemble from 3.30pm.
The parade will end with the playing of the Last Post as a tribute to all those who served.
