RAF Harrowbeer at Yelverton will again reverberate to the roar of a Spitfire's Merlin engine this August 17 and 18, when Spitfire Spares' replica Mk IX Spitfire makes a welcome return to the airfield during a 1940s Weekend.

The Spitfire will be joined by the last surviving replica Hawker Hurricane from the 1969 'Battle of Britain' film and the two aircraft will be parked in the dispersal bay restored by the RAF Harrowbeer Interest Group.

Bookings are now being taken for the 'Spitfire Experience' where people get to sit in the cockpit and press the starter button to fire up the 36-litre Merlin engine.

The idea for a 1940s weekend, organised by the RAF Harrowbeer Archives, RAF Harrowbeer Interest Group and the 1940s Roadshow, came from the very successful RAF Harrowbeer 70th anniversary event in 2011.

This year there will not be any flying displays but along with the Spitfire and Hurricane, there will be vintage vehicles and plenty of other attractions for visitors to enjoy. Entry and parking are all free and the organisers have asked everyone to give generously to help fund the event so that it can be held annually.

Chairman of the 1940s event committee Stephen Fryer said: 'People have not stopped talking about the 70th anniversary event in 2011!

'We skipped last year because of the Olympics and our aim now is to try and hold this event every year as we build up towards the 75th anniversary in 2016.

'However, this will all depend on how much money we can raise. The event is free and we will be relying on donations to help pay for the event. We are also asking local groups and businesses to support us with help, both in terms of manpower and funding. In fact, any volunteers willing to help over the two days will be most welcome.'

The event runs from 10am to 5pm on both days and further information on it and how you can help is on http://www.rafharrowbeer1940s.co.uk">www.rafharrowbeer1940s.co.uk or by contacting Stephen on 01822 855336.