A Grand Day Out: The ‘Grand 1940s Draw’ Returns

Sunshine, swing and £950 in prizes made 4th October 2026 a date worth drawing a circle around.

All the Fun of the Draw

It may have arrived later in the year than usual, but the Grand 1940s Draw proved that good things really do come to those who wait—and, on this occasion, to those who remembered to bring their raffle tickets. The crowd was smaller than in previous years, yet the beautiful weather more than made up for it. Everyone settled in for a splendid day of nostalgia, music and merriment.

Smoothly Does It

Behind every successful event is somebody quietly making sure that everything happens when and where it should. The new events manager, Sue Clements, did an excellent job of keeping proceedings on track—no small achievement when the programme includes performers, dancers and the tantalising prospect of prize money.

Sue Clements pictured here, on the right.

Music, Movement and Marvellous Voices

Bombshell Rheanne supplied the glamour and a marvellous vocal performance, with Richard Tree from Swingtones, keeping the visitors entertained with his serenading and comic humour. DJ Andy from AV8 kept the atmosphere lively and fun with lots of dancers also taking to the floor, showing the rest of us how it is done ‘1940’s style’—and perhaps reminding a few knees why they prefer to remain seated!

Beyond the music and dancing, there was plenty to explore. Military vehicles stood proudly on display, vintage stalls tempted visitors with treasures from another era, and food outlets kept everyone well supplied. Re-enactors completed the scene with impressive period detail—making it feel, for a moment, as though the 1940s had returned, albeit with rather better snacks!

And the Lucky Winners Are…

Of course, no grand draw would be complete without prizes. A total of £950 was awarded, giving the lucky winners an excellent reason to celebrate and everyone else an excellent reason to say, “I was only one number away.”

With sunshine, superb entertainment and smiles all round, the event proved to be a thoroughly enjoyable success.

Photos courtesy of Alan Palmer Photography. You can see more of Alan’s magnificent photo’s on our gallery!