ORGANISERS have hailed the success of the Maiden Newton at War extravaganza.

They declared the two-day event a tremendous spectacle with thousands of visitors.

The village exploded into life with displays, mock battles, entertainment, a memorial service and a flypast by a Seafire fighter.

Andy Elliott, the chairman of the Maiden Newton at War committee, said: “It was very successful and we were very pleased with how it went in every respect.

“We had two fabulous evenings of entertainment and lots of people came on both days. It was packed out.

“The re-enactors enjoyed themselves and are looking at coming back again.

“The two battles went very smoothly and were very entertaining.”

Organisers estimate about 5,000 people visited over two days although they haven’t yet got final figures.

A group called Armour and Embarkation brought a large collection of tanks and military vehicles.

Some of the vehicles joined in Dorchester Carnival on Saturday.

Other attractions on the school and parish playing fields included stands, children’s activities, food and military vehicles.

Children from Greenford School joined in the event with activities and performances.

Villagers also got into the spirit by decorating homes and donning 1940s-themed fancy dress.

Mr Elliott said: “Thanks to all of the residents of Maiden Newton and Frome Vauchurch who embraced the event and dressed the houses with bunting and taped up the windows.

“Many dressed in 1940s-themed clothing, not necessarily military ones. There was a great atmosphere.”

Mr Elliott said that the flypast by the Seafire was one of the highlights of the weekend. It was just wonderful.

“People were still talking about it on the Sunday. It was a real highlight.”

Now the committee is likely to hold a third event, probably in two years’ time.