Special weekend looks back at park's wartime role

Clumber Park was a huge munitions centre during the Second World War and was also used as a training ground and secret testing site.

In 1941, the estate hosted the testing of a large trench-cutting machine – observed by wartime leader Winston Churchill. German and Italian prisoners of war also worked at Clumber between 1943 and 1945.

Pippa Purser, events co-ordinator at Clumber Park, said: "There are permanent exhibitions at Clumber Park about the part it played in this important period of history, but this weekend will really help bring it to life.

"We've got a packed programme of performances and activities over the two days, and there will also be a display of 1940s Austin and Morris cars to give a real wartime feel.

"Visitors are invited to join in with the spirit of the event by coming along in period dress, although this isn't compulsory."

Activities during the weekend will include wartime songs, an interactive display about Dunkirk and the Battle of Britain, Home Guard drill and military training and the chance to meet soldiers preparing for D-Day.

Visitors on the Saturday will also be treated to a fly past at approximately 2.15pm by a Spitfire and Dakota.

The National Trust has owned Clumber Park since just after the end of the War, when it was purchased with the aid of public donations.

For further details about the Wartime Clumber event, including a full timetable, visit the website at www.eventplan.co.uk.