IN 1964 local schools were disrupted by the arrival of the Beatles and Wilfred Bramble on what is now the West Somerset Railway filming the iconic comedy film (A Hard Day’s Night) With filming in Minehead and at Crowcombe Heathfield the area became a magnet for Beatles fans.
A spokesperson said: “On July 8-9 we will be recreating those heady days by taking the railway back to the ‘Swinging Sixties’ so dust off your flares and mini-skirts, let your hair down, and come on along.
“The 1960s saw the end of steam locomotives on British railways and the introduction of diesel engines.
“To reflect this, we will be running a mixture of steam and diesel services and will also recreate the Class 33 Hymek hauled ‘Beatles train’.
“There will be live music at different points along the line and we will also see the return of our popular platform dance on the Saturday evening.
“The final line-up of acts is still being drawn up but will certainly not disappoint. Helen Pearson and the Pashy Pops are among the performers already confirmed.
“We will have classic vehicles of the period on display as well as a fashion parade highlighting the fashions of the period.
“Given the iconic status of the Beatles, we will also have displays commemorating their visit to the line at several locations. Further details of the timetables and line-up of musical acts will follow shortly.”
1940s Weekend
West Somerset was heavily involved in WW2 with military camps at Doniford, Minehead, and near Bishops Lydeard. Many old pillboxes used in coastal defence can still be seen.
The event will take people back to those heady days and aims to recreate some of the scenes that would have been common throughout the areas at that time.
You will be able to see military vehicles of the period and visit the military camps where displays of uniform and weaponry will be given.
Watchet will again host the popular vintage fair on the Esplanade and the town will again be decorated with bunting and have their windows blast-taped. Minehead will also host live music.
There will be a platform dance on the Saturday evening featuring the Liberty Sisters and the Hot House Combo.
As you wander around you may see King George VI and his escort or be entertained by Laurel and Hardy.
Dottie and Biscuit will be offering comedic instructions on air defence and other topics while nylons, watches, and other ‘knocked off’ items can be bought under the counter from Viv the Spiv.
Steam engines will allow you to move between stations and enjoy the full scope of the event.
Live music will be provided by Blitz Time Sally, the Liberty Sisters, Helen Pearson, Johnny Victory, May Blossom, the Pashy Pops, and more.
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