Visitors to the Royal Gunpowder Mills in Waltham Abbey will be transported back to the 1940s to join the Victory in Europe Day celebrations as part of a spectacular May Bank Holiday weekend event (2 – 4 May 2015).

The weekend of re-enactments, remembrance and celebration will include military vehicles and incredible air displays. On Sunday 3 May see the iconic Spitfire whilst on bank holiday Monday 4 May watch the legendary Mustang flyover. (Flyovers are weather permitting).

Families can also enjoy street parties, music, dancing, theatrical performances and foods from the Home Front period. On Sunday and Monday each afternoon enjoy a noisy skirmish between the German and Allied re-enactors based on the airborne battle of Varsity. Visitors can meet both soldiers and civilians, who will be happy to explain the history of the VE celebrations and to give an insight into life during wartime a generation ago.

2015 sees the 70th anniversary since the end of World War II, and is also the 10th annual VE Celebration at Royal Gunpowder Mills. The event at the site, which played a key role in the Second World War, has grown to become one of the most significant re-enactor gatherings in the country. Covering the whole events field and with international attendance, troops represented from many armies and regiments create a spectacle not to be missed.

Royal Gunpowder Mills' Lance Bourne said: “The VE Day weekend is one of our largest events and a fantastic living history experience that over one weekend celebrates one of the greatest moments in our history.

“The event also provides a fitting tribute to the courage and determination of the British people during wartime”.

“To have the flyovers as part of the celebrations is a real coup and the aerial aerobatic displays, combined with all the other events and activities, will make it an unforgettable weekend of celebration and remembrance,” he added.

VE Day Celebration (2 – 4 May 2015):

• Royal Gunpowder Mills, Beaulieu Drive, Waltham Abbey, Essex, EN9 1JY.
• Open 10am-5pm (Last Admission 3.30pm)
• Adults £9.75 Children (3-16) £7.75, Under 3's FREE, Concessions £8.75
• Telephone 01992 707370
• www.royalgunpowdermills.com.

ENDS

For more information please contact:

Melodie Manners | melodie@flamingo-marketing.co.uk | 01209 822194 or 07815 709548