Swaffham Museum's 'within living memory' project was launched with a day of special exhibitions and events harking back to the 1940s and 50s.

A collection of stories, pictures and household items from the period attracted hundreds of market-day shoppers to the Assembly Rooms on Saturday to see toys, furniture and vintage clothing on display.

Visitors were amused by a display of 1940s underwear, including several pairs of knickers made from parachute silk, and intrigued by what looked like a small piece of chain-mail with a handle which was, in fact, a fly swatter.

Adding to the spectacle were volunteers dressed in outfits from the 40s and 50s, and appropriate music from five-piece jive band the Fabulous Swinging Chandeliers.

The event was organised by the museum's heritage development officer Sian Hogarth and Advance Swaffham Action Group's projects development officer Kate Francis on behalf of Swaffham Town Council and the Iceni Partnership to promote Swaffham market day.

The next local history event in Swaffham will be on Saturday June 4, when the museum will host an Oral History Cafe.

Anyone interested in local history, especially those with a good story about Swaffham's recent past, are invited to come along between 10am and 4pm. Further details are available from the museum on 01760 721230.