EGGESFORD Airfield will host a 1940s weekend on July 28 and July 29 to celebrate its 40th anniversary.

The weekend has a 1940s flavour, with classic vehicles and vintage aircraft. The airfield is home to a collection of vintage aircraft, the majority of which are Auster aircraft, the oldest being a 1943 Auster Mk III, used as a world war two reconnaissance plane. There will be a commemoration to the life of Dickie Bird, the designed of the Auster and Islander.

The highlight will be the performance of AJ's Big Band, a 17-piece jazz band, on Saturday, July 28. The group will play music of the 1940s, including classics made famous by Glenn Miller and Count Basie.

There will be activities for children, stalls and refreshments. Author Colin Beazley will be signing copies of his debut novel 'One Day in June'.?To be published in February, it shares the experiences of a young man in Bomber Command during the war, flying secret missions to France.

The open days run from 11am to 4pm. The airfield will open at 7pm for AJ's Big Band, start performing at 8pm. There will be a bar and barbecue, or guests can bring their own picnic and are invited to dress in 1940s attire.

Tickets are £14 for adults or £5 for children. Money raised will support the Devon Air Ambulance Trust and Mission Aviation Fellowship.

For tickets call Christine on 01769 580241 or Jackie on 01363 83746.