RAF HARROWBEER at Yelverton will once again reverberate to the roar of a Spitfire's Merlin engine starting up next month. Spitfire Spares' replica Mk IX Spitfire takes centre stage once again at the 'RAF Harrowbeer 1940s Weekend' being held on the old World War Two airfield at Yelverton on the August 16 and 17. Bookings are now being taken for the chance to enjoy the 'Spitfire Experience' of climbing into the cockpit and starting the 27 litre Merlin engine yourself! As well as the Spitfire, there will be steam engines from the Robey Trust, vintage vehicles, living history displays 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 continue to be held annually. Opening times are from 10am to 5pm on both days and further information on the event can be found on http://www.rafharrowbeer1940s.co.uk">www.rafharrowbeer1940s.co.uk The weekend begins on Friday, August 15, with a 1930s/1940s themed dinner dance at the Moorland Garden Hotel from 7.30pm. This is to celebrate the 80th Birthday of the hotel, which opened in 1934, and the 73rd birthday of RAF Harrowbeer, which opened in 1941. Further details are on the website http://www.moorlandgardenhotel.co.uk">www.moorlandgardenhotel.co.uk or by contacting the Moorland Garden Hotel on 01822 852245.