A Wartime Thriller

9th September 2010

Saddleworth was the scene of a dramatic invasion, with over 60 military vehicles in convoy, soldiers, and even a temporary army base set up. Luckily it was all part of “Yanks Are Back in Saddleworth”, the annual wartime event which took place from the 13th to 15th August. The event allows people to “step back in time and experience war-torn Britain of the 1940’s”.

The sunny streets were lined with thousands, waving both the Union Jack and the Stars and Stripes as a parade led by the Normandy veterans passed, supported by the Oldham Pipe Band. A large temporary army base provided an armoury of different stalls for military enthusiasts, whilst others whiled away the hours on Saturday evening at the sell-out Big Swing Dance. On Sunday a 60-strong convoy took a 10-mile tour around the Saddleworth villages, including Dobcross, in where several scenes from the film “Yanks”, starring Richard Gere, were filmed over 30 years ago. The climax of the event saw the flypast of a legendary Dakota DC3 Aircraft – providing a perfect finale.

D-Day Normandy veteran Les Stuart (86), who travelled from the Wirral to experience the event, 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.” Organiser Ken Taylor, commented that “It is overwhelming when you’re driving down the street and so many people are clapping and cheering, it makes the hairs on your neck stand on end.”

The event was a huge success, with Ken Taylor stating “The weather has been marvellous and has been very well attended” He added “People came from far and wide and it really brings the community together. It gets bigger and better every year.” Chief Organiser Paul “Dogtags” Higginson was delighted with the turnout and thanked everyone who sponsored and supported the event.

Proceeds from this years’ Yanks Are Back in Saddleworth event will go to The Royal Air Force Association.

http://www.oldham-chronicle.co.uk/news-features/8/news-headlines/45820/yanks-for-the-memories