TAVISTOCK is preparing to get in full swing and 'in the mood' on a nostalgic journey back to the wartime days of the 1940s.

A two day event in the Meadows on May 25 and 26 entitled 'Tavistock 1943' will commemorate the 70th anniversary of the arrival of the US Army 29th Division in Tavistock and the establishment of its divisional headquarters at Abbotsfield House, Tavistock.

It will be jointly hosted by the World War Two Re-Enactment South West and Tavistock Town Council.

In the summer of 1943 the 29th Infantry Division came to West Devon to prepare for the invasion of Nazi- occupied Europe. The lives of many American GIs stationed in Tavistock were to be lost on the beaches of Normandy the following year.

However, the continuing ties between the Americans and the town were cemented. Leaving for Normandy the Americans presented the town with the US national flag 'Old Glory' in 1945 and a plaque 'presented to the citizens of Tavistock in appreciation of the kindness and hospitality shown to the Division during its stay in Tavistock' — both flag and plaque hang proudly in the town hall.

'Tavistock 1943' entertainment will include Private Ricky Hunter 1940s vocalist and trumpeter'; Saturday night dance with 1940's DJ 12 o'clock high. Sunday; commemorative service, parade and 'Dig for Victory' garden festival in the pannier market and hall. There will be Home Front and vehicles to welcome people.

On display will be world war two military living history displays and vehicles, local organisation and vintage and military stalls.

There will be a special wartime vehicles road run throughout the town on both days and don't miss out on the 1940s beer festival.

The daytime event is free. Dance tickets are £8 and available on the night.

All monies raised by donation will go towards local charities and organisations and to pay for a plaque to commemorate the 29th Infantry Division in Tavistock and the sacrifices they made.

Bookings may be made via the websites at http://www.wwiireenactmentsouthwest.co.uk/booking.htm">www.wwiireenactmentsouthwest.co.uk/booking.htm, wwiireenactmentsouthwest.co.uk or by calling 0790 1144482.