Yanks for the memories

Photo: Pictures: CHRIS SUNDERLAND

Fancy-dress... William Smith, Elizabeth Chesters and Dorothy Smith

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THE Yanks made a triumphant return to Saddleworth with glorious weather prompting organisers to hail the event as one of the best ever.

Hundreds of onlookers lined village streets yesterday to witness the 60-strong convoy of military vehicles on their 10-mile celebratory tour around houses decked out in red, white and blue.

Excited families, many dressed in their fabulous Forties finery, waved the Stars and Stripes along with Union Jacks as the Normandy veterans led the joyous parade in the sunshine, accompanied by the uplifting sound of the Oldham Pipe Band.

Visitors flocked to the temporary Army base in Greenfield to get their fix of military magic with the abundance of stalls, while the sell-out Big Swing Dance on Saturday saw enthusiasts jitterbug into the night.

Organiser Ken Taylor, said: “The weather has been marvellous and the event has been really well- attended.

“It is overwhelming when you’re driving down the streets and so many people are clapping and cheering, it makes the hairs on your neck stand on end.

“People came from far and wide and it really brings the community together.

“It gets bigger and better ever year.”

The convoy made its way through Delph and up Stanedge Road, before heading through Dobcross, where movie scenes from Richard Gere’s “Yanks” were filmed over 30 years ago.

Packed pavements were brought to a standstill yesterday as crowds looked to the sky for the emotional culmination — a swooping fly-over by a formidable Dakota aircraft.

It was a poignant day for Normandy veteran, Les Stuart (86), who travelled from the Wirral and proudly displayed his medals.

The D-Day Navy man said: “I’ve never seen so many people watching the parade, they never stopped clapping. It makes you feel wonderful and wanted.

“I can remember the war as if it was yesterday, but it is great to see so many people asking us about our experiences and keeping the memories alive.

“The event revives that spirit and comradeship.”

This year’s festival, named “The Yanks Are Back In Saddleworth”, saw a newly-formed committee take the reins and deliver a storming weekend of jubilation. Gleaming classic American cars were on display, local pubs pulled out all the stops to entertain and couples jived in the summer sun. Forties enthusiast, Sheila Galvey, sporting her finest vintage attire, said: “The fly-over was fantastic and you meet lovely people. It is a great day out.

“You have to remember those that fought in the many wars for us and celebrate that unique British spirit – it’s certainly been on show.”

All proceeds from this year’s event will go to the Royal Air Force Association.

Chief organiser Paul “Dogtags” Higginson said he was thrilled with the turnout and thanked all those who helped support and sponsor the successful event.