Dakota flypast set for take-off

A DRAMATIC flyover by a Second World War Dakota airplane will be the finale of the The Yanks Are Back In Saddleworth weekend later this year.

The flypast had initially been axed when the Wartime Weekend event was cancelled a few weeks ago.

But now the event has been resurrected under a new name, organiser Paul Higginson has confirmed that the aircraft will make its trip over the villages.

He said it would be a fitting message that the Saddleworth yanks celebrations are here to stay this summer.

He said: “The show will go on for local businesses and the people of Oldham and Saddleworth that want to come and enjoy the weekend, that’s what it is all about.

“The team of five committee members are looking forward to the event with the same format and the same enthusiasm as last year.”

The spectacular sight of the American aircraft will be the culmination of the renamed festival, taking place on August 13-15.

The Big Swing dance has already been booked for the Saturday at Uppermill Civic Hall, while the convoy of military through Uppermill and a Churchill look-alike will add to the bill.

Proceeds from the event are being donated to the Royal Air Force Association (RAFA) to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain.