I’m very pleased to be performing at the Great Central Railway 1940s Weekend on Saturday 30th and Sunday 31st May 2026. This is one of the UK’s best-known wartime and vintage events, attracting visitors from across the country each year.
The Great Central Railway is the UK’s only double-track heritage railway, allowing visitors to experience steam trains passing each other exactly as they would have done during the golden age of rail travel. During the 1940s Weekend, the stations along the line are transformed with military displays, reenactors, vintage vehicles, live entertainment, traders and period costumes.
Across the weekend, I’ll be performing a selection of wartime songs, swing music and vintage favourites at both Loughborough Central Station and the Quorn Marquee.
Performance Times
Saturday 30th May 2026 – Loughborough Central Station
🎤 11.30am
🎤 1.30pm
🎤 2.30pm
Sunday 31st May 2026 – Quorn Marquee
🎤 10.30am
🎤 2.00pm
🎤 3.00pm
The event itself stretches across multiple stations including Loughborough, Quorn & Woodhouse, Rothley and Leicester North, with steam trains running throughout the weekend. Visitors can expect live music, dance displays, vintage shopping, military encampments, classic vehicles and plenty of opportunities to dress in 1940s style.
One of the things that makes this event stand out is the atmosphere created across the whole railway line. You might step off a steam train to find a brass band playing on the platform, dancers performing in the marquee or reenactors recreating scenes from wartime Britain. It’s a brilliant day out whether you’re interested in music, history, railways or vintage fashion.
I’m looking forward to being part of the entertainment across the weekend and singing alongside the sounds of the steam engines once again.
For more information about the event and tickets, visit:
Great Central Railway Official Website
To book Jayne Darling for vintage events, wartime weekends, festivals and private functions:
🌐 www.jaynedarling.co.uk
📩 jayne@jaynedarling.co.uk
☎️ 07795 342639
I’m really pleased to be heading back to Chesterfield for the 1940s Market on Thursday 28th May 2026, performing alongside Johnny Victory in what’s always a busy and well-supported day across the town centre.
The event turns Chesterfield into a full wartime-style experience for the day, with entertainment, displays and live acts spread right across the streets, yards and market areas. It runs alongside the weekly Thursday flea market, so the whole centre has a steady flow of visitors throughout the day.
We’ll be based in the churchyard of the Crooked Spire Church Chesterfield, performing live vintage vocals as part of the wider entertainment programme. It’s a unique setting right in the heart of the town, and it always draws a lovely crowd throughout the day.
Across Chesterfield, there will be a full programme of 1940s-themed entertainment including live singers, walkabout performers, wartime displays, military vehicles and a full-sized replica Spitfire. You’ll also see classic cars, a vintage fire engine, shire horses, and various historical exhibits dotted around the centre, including areas near the Chesterfield Market Hall.
It’s very much a day where you can wander through the town and come across something happening in every direction – from Market Square to New Square, The Shambles, The Yards and beyond.
🎶 Performance times
I’ll be performing at:
- 10:00am
- 11:30am
- 2:10pm
Johnny Victory will also be performing at:
- 10:50am
- 1:20pm
- 3:15pm
It’s always great sharing the day with Johnny – we’ve worked together loads before and it’s a really easy, natural flow between sets which works well in a busy event like this.
🇬🇧 About the event
The Chesterfield 1940s Market is delivered by Chesterfield Borough Council with support from the Chesterfield Town Board Pride in Place programme, funded by the UK Government. The aim is to bring the town centre to life with accessible, free entertainment for all ages, while celebrating the history and atmosphere of the 1940s era.
With the school holidays running at the same time, it’s designed as a proper family day out, with plenty to see and do throughout the day.
If you’re planning to come along, I’ll be performing throughout the day in the churchyard area, so do pop over and say hello if you’re nearby.
🌐 www.jaynedarling.co.uk
📩 jayne@jaynedarling.co.uk
☎️ 07795 342639
Jayne Darling to Perform at Eton Wick Village Hall for VJ Day 80th Anniversary
📅 Sunday 7th September 2025
🕑 2pm–5pm
📍 Eton Wick Village Hall, SL4 6LT
I’ll be performing at Eton Wick Village Hall this September as part of the local community’s VJ Day 80th Anniversary afternoon tea.
It’s a proper 1940s event, with music from the wartime years, afternoon tea, a raffle, and a chance for the community to come together and remember an important moment in history.
🎙️ Two 45-minute sets of live vintage music
🍰 Afternoon tea
🎟️ Tickets £10 (adults only)
🎫 On sale from August
The event is being held at the lovely Eton Wick Village Hall – just outside Windsor – with free parking available on site. I’ll also be dressing the stage with bunting, sandbags and lights to help set the scene, as I always do for my wartime shows.
It’s great to be part of events like this – ones that mark key anniversaries while keeping history alive through music.
If you’re local to the area or know someone who is, feel free to share the details.
For bookings and enquiries:
🌐 www.jaynedarling.co.uk
📩 jayne@jaynedarling.co.uk
☎️ 07795 342639
Jayne Darling to Perform at the 46th Chesterfield Festival of Remembrance
I’m delighted to be taking part in the 46th Chesterfield & District Festival of Remembrance, which takes place on Thursday 6th November 2025 at the Winding Wheel Theatre, Holywell Street, Chesterfield.
This well-established event is a significant part of Chesterfield’s annual calendar, bringing together the community to honour those who have served — and continue to serve — in the Armed Forces. It’s a respectful and moving evening that reflects on past conflicts while also recognising the dedication of today’s service personnel.
Key details:
📍 Winding Wheel Theatre, Holywell Street, Chesterfield S41 7SA
📅 Thursday 6th November 2025
🕕 Doors open at 6.00pm, show starts at 7.20pm and finishes at 10.00pm
🎟️ Tickets: £6, available directly from the venue
The event will be held in the presence of His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant, Mrs Elizabeth Fothergill C.B.E., and will feature members and standards from various branches of the Armed Forces and civilian emergency services. It’s also supported by Chesterfield and district Cadet Units.
As a vintage performer specialising in music from the wartime era, I feel privileged to be able to contribute to events like these, helping to keep the music and memory of this important period alive. The performance will be filmed as part of the evening’s proceedings, adding to its significance and reach.
If you’re in the area, I’d love to see you there. And if you’re organising your own remembrance event or vintage celebration and would like to enquire about a performance, feel free to get in touch:
🌐 www.jaynedarling.co.uk
📩 jayne@jaynedarling.co.uk
☎️ 07795 342639
Kind regards,
Jayne x
Looking Ahead: Performing at the 80th Anniversary of WWII’s End in Hereford
I’ve been invited to perform at a really special event coming up on 3rd August 2025 at the Hay Craft Centre in Hereford, marking 80 years since the end of World War II.
The event has been organised to unveil a commemorative bench featuring the names of local men who lost their lives during the war – a powerful and permanent reminder of their bravery and sacrifice. It’s being put together by Kelvyn Jenkins and the team, and will be a chance for the community to come together to remember and reflect.
There’ll be a short service led by Canon Paul Wright, including the Last Post and a moment of silence, followed by music (that’s where I come in!). I’ll be singing a selection of vintage and wartime classics – songs that still mean so much, even eight decades on.
After the formal part of the day, there’ll be refreshments and a chance for people to stay, chat, and share stories. Events like this always feel incredibly personal, especially with family members of the fallen invited to attend.
If you’re in the Hereford area and would like to come along, you’re very welcome. And if you are related to any of the names being remembered, Kelvyn would really like to hear from you.
It’s a real privilege to be part of something like this – and I’m looking forward to seeing everyone there.
🌐 www.jaynedarling.co.uk
📩 jayne@jaynedarling.co.uk
☎️ 07795 342639
I’m really pleased to be performing at Miss Bella’s Blooms 10th Birthday Celebration on Saturday 25th October 2025, taking place at the stunning Newark Town Hall Ballroom & Council Chamber.
Located in the heart of Newark-on-Trent, this historic venue is a fantastic backdrop for a day filled with vintage stalls, live music, dancing and good company. If you’re a fan of vintage style, retro shopping or just fancy a laid-back day out with a brilliant atmosphere, this is definitely one to add to your diary.
I’ll be singing throughout the day with a mix of 1940s and vintage classics, perfect for anyone who enjoys live music and a bit of nostalgia. Whether you’re popping in for a browse or staying all afternoon, it’ll be lovely to see some familiar faces.
There’ll also be refreshments available – from tea and cake to snacks and drinks at the bar – and entry is just £3 on the door.
Event Details:
Newark Town Hall, Newark, Nottinghamshire
Saturday 25th October 2025
11am – 5pm
£3 entry (pay on the door)
The event is organised by Miss Bella’s Blooms, celebrating 10 years of her wonderful vintage business. Expect a brilliant mix of traders, stalls and entertainment – with regular updates to follow on her social media channels.
For bookings and performance enquiries:
www.jaynedarling.co.uk
jayne@jaynedarling.co.uk
07795 342639
Armistice Day Afternoon Tea Dance at Newdigate District Sports and Social Club
I am pleased to announce that I will be performing at the Armistice Day Afternoon Tea Dance on Tuesday 11th November 2025 at the Newdigate District Sports and Social Club in Bedworth.
This special event will be a nostalgic nod to the 1940s, bringing people together in remembrance and reflection. Guests will enjoy a lovely afternoon of live vintage music, dancing, food, and camaraderie.
Starting at 1 pm
The theme is 40s wartime remembrance, with decor and dress encouraged to reflect the era. Expect plenty of vintage flair, classic hits from the 1940s and 50s.
The event takes place indoors and even a WiFi connection for those wanting to share their photos and memories online.
The club has a long-standing community connection in Bedworth and has been host to many local events over the years. Everyone is welcome – whether you’re a regular at tea dances or just fancy something a bit different.
📍Venue:
Newdigate District Sports and Social Club
Smorrell Lane, Bedworth
Free onsite parking available
1 pm start
For more info or to book Jayne Darling for your upcoming event, contact us.
Marking VE Day 80 with Blind Veterans UK in Elmswell
Last weekend I had the absolute pleasure of performing my final VE Day 80 event, singing for the wonderful community supported by Blind Veterans UK. The event took place at The Blackbourne Community Centre in Elmswell, Suffolk, and brought together veterans and volunteers for a relaxed afternoon tea full of conversation, music and memories.
About Blind Veterans UK
Blind Veterans UK is a national charity that supports ex-Service personnel who have lost their sight, whether during their time in service or later in life. Their work provides rehabilitation, training, emotional support and a sense of community to help veterans regain independence and confidence after sight loss. It was a privilege to be part of one of their events, which focus on companionship, shared experiences and ongoing support.
An Afternoon with Remarkable Guests
Among the guests were two incredibly inspiring veterans: Robbie Hall and Jim Grant.
Robbie Hall, now 102 years old, is a female World War II veteran who joined the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force after lying about her age at just 17. During the war, she worked in the accounts section of RAF Bomber Command, helping to keep vital Air Ministry documents and regulations up to date. At the time of the D-Day landings, Robbie was stationed with Fighter Command. Her boss during part of her service was none other than Sir Arthur “Bomber” Harris, one of the most notable figures in RAF history.
Jim Grant, who recently celebrated his 100th birthday, served in the Royal Navy and was part of the Arctic and Atlantic Convoys during World War II. His wartime service included the notable role of escorting Winston Churchill across the Atlantic – a truly unique experience that not many can lay claim to. Jim’s stories were not only fascinating but a reminder of just how vital the contributions of these men and women were.
Many of the veterans at the event had only recently returned from a visit to Buckingham Palace, part of the national VE Day 80 commemorations, and were still full of pride and excitement from the occasion. It was a real joy to perform for such a warm and welcoming group, and to mark this important anniversary in such meaningful company.
Planning a Vintage-Themed Event?
If you’re organising an event and looking to include live entertainment with a vintage twist – whether it’s 1940s wartime classics, a singalong or swing set – I’d love to be involved. I regularly perform across the UK and offer bespoke performances for care homes, community groups, heritage events and private parties.
To find out more or make a booking, you can contact me via:
Website: www.jaynedarling.co.uk
Email: jayne@jaynedarling.co.uk
Phone: 07795 342639
T
Top Tips for a Brilliant VE Day 80 Event
With 1940s Vintage Singer Jayne Darling
Here are some ideas to help your event run smoothly and bring that authentic wartime spirit to life – whether it’s a community gathering, care home celebration, or something more formal.
🎶 1. Set the Scene with Decor
You don’t have to go overboard – just a few touches go a long way:
- Union Jack bunting, flags or red/white/blue tablecloths
- Posters from the era (“Keep Calm”, “Dig for Victory”, etc.)
- Table centrepieces with ration cards, tea tins, or wartime props
- Baskets of fake veg, vintage crockery, or a string of warm lights for a street party atmosphere
- Waving flags for the tables – small flags are fairly inexpensive and can be purchased off Ebay for around 10 – 15 pence each depending on quantity
- Cargo netting and sand bags – cargo netting can be purchased from Army and Navy stores as can empty sand bags. Sandbags can be filled with scrunched up newspaper or old duvets and pillows
☕ 2. Keep Refreshments Traditional
- Serve up afternoon tea – sandwiches, sausage rolls, Victoria sponge, scones
- Have a cake baking or cake decoration competition!
- Or keep it simple with tea in teapots, enamel mugs, and a biscuit tin
- Some venues do a wartime-style ration bag with a cheese sandwich, an apple and a bit of cake – fun and easy!
- Maybe try some wartime specialities – think spam or bread and dripping!
🎩 3. Encourage Guests to Dress the Part
It really helps bring people together and sets the mood. Suggest:
- Victory rolls, curls, red lipstick, headscarves for the ladies
- Flat caps, braces, or military-style jackets for the gents
- Doesn’t have to be full fancy dress – just a nod to the era works well
- Tea dresses for the ladies – ladies in the 40s also wore hats and gloves. Seamed stockings were a luxury and scarce!
- Make your own gas mask box, a small box covered in brown paper and some string should do the trick!
Simple Tips for a Lovely Vintage Look
You don’t need a full costume to join in the fun – just a few touches can help you get that classic 1940s style!
💄 Hair & Make-up
- Victory rolls – iconic 1940s hairstyle! There are loads of tutorials online if you fancy giving it a go
- Headscarf or turban – tied around your hair Rosie-the-Riveter style – ideal if you don’t want to faff with curls
- Red lipstick & winged eyeliner – the quickest way to vintage-up any outfit
- Keep make-up simple, polished, and classic
- Want those 1940s style curls? Damp hair, setting lotion or mousse and sleep in some foam rollers or pin curls.
👚 Clothing
You don’t need to buy anything new – have a look at what’s already in your wardrobe!
Look out for:
- Tea dresses or shirt dresses – floral, polka dot, or block colours all work well
- High-waisted skirts with a tucked-in blouse
- Knitted cardigans or short jackets
- Trousers, dungarees or a boiler suit for a land girl or factory worker look
👠 Shoes & Accessories
- Low block heels, brogues or even pumps will do
- Seamed tights or bare legs with ankle socks
- Add a brooch, pearls or a simple handbag to finish the look
- Gloves and a little hat or fascinator if you’re feeling fancy
- Not got any seamed tights or stockings? An eyeliner pencil and someone with a steady hand will be just the job! Women used to stain their legs with gravy browning, tea or even sand!
💡 Quick Outfit Ideas
- Land Girl: Green jumper, dungarees, headscarf, wellies or boots
- Housewife style: Shirt dress, apron, rollers/headscarf, red lippy
- For a more dressed-up look: Tea dress, heels, clutch bag, pearls, hat
it’s more about the spirit of the event than getting it perfect. And if all else fails: red lipstick + a headscarf = instant vintage!
Maybe offer a small prize for best dressed?
🎤 4. Make the Most of the Music
I’ll bring the 1940s vocals and nostalgia – you can help create atmosphere by:
- Having people seated comfortably for a singalong
- Leaving space for dancing – a bit of a jive or a waltz goes down a treat
- Printing out song sheets for the patriotic songs
📸 5. Capture the Moment
Set up a photo corner or just encourage guests to take snaps –
- You could print a few for guests afterwards as a keepsake
- Or collect them for a community noticeboard or newsletter
🎤 6. Optional Extras
Depending on your event, you could also consider:
- A short wartime quiz or bingo game
- A toast or moment of reflection for those who served, I have the last post on my Ipad which I can play
- Invite a local Army veteran or history speaker to say a few words
VE Day in Britain in 1945 was a massive moment – after six years of war, people were finally able to let off steam and celebrate. It was a spontaneous, joyful day, and while people didn’t have much (rationing was still in full swing), that didn’t stop them throwing a proper knees-up!
Here’s what a typical VE Day celebration might have looked like:
🇬🇧 Street Parties
Communities came together to decorate streets with homemade bunting, flags, and streamers – often made from scraps or whatever they could find. Long tables were set up in the street and everyone brought something to share. These were proper community efforts – even if it was just a bit of jam or a few sandwiches.
🥪 Food (despite rationing!)
Food was still strictly rationed, so people got creative. Some typical treats you might have found:
- Jam sandwiches
- Mock cream cakes (made with marg and icing sugar!)
- Eggless sponge cakes
- Spam or corned beef sandwiches
- Jelly if anyone had powdered gelatine or a tin
- Dripping on bread
- Potato salad (as spuds were still easy to get)
- Homemade ginger beer or National Lemonade
There was a lot of sharing and pooling of rations – people would use up whatever they had tucked away. And of course, anyone who had access to a bit of booze would have brought that out too!
🎶 Music & Dancing
Music was key – lots of dancing and singalongs!
- Big band music and swing from Glenn Miller, Vera Lynn, Benny Goodman, etc.
- Vera Lynn’s “We’ll Meet Again” and “The White Cliffs of Dover” would have been sung everywhere.
- Families gathered round the wireless for Winston Churchill’s speech and the King’s broadcast.
- People would dance the Lambeth Walk, Jitterbug, or just have a bit of a knees-up!
- If someone had a piano, it would be wheeled out and someone would get stuck in.
🎉 Party Games
Simple, old-fashioned games were popular – nothing fancy:
- Pass the parcel
- Musical chairs
- Pin the tail on the donkey
- Egg and spoon races
- Three-legged races
- Wheelbarrow races
- Tug of war
Children were a big part of it all – lots of excitement, sugar rushes, and running about the street.
Even though times were tough, VE Day was full of joy and relief. People were exhausted, grieving, and uncertain about the future – but for that one day, the whole country stopped to celebrate and take a breath!
If you’d like help planning the flow of the event around the performance, I’m always happy to advise – just let me know.
Looking forward to bringing the spirit of the 1940s to you!
In short no, but here’s a longer explanation.
A DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is not legally required for entertainers performing in care homes because the role of a care home entertainer does not fall under the definition of “regulated activity” as defined by UK safeguarding legislation.
Why DBS is Not Required
- Definition of Regulated Activity: The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 defines regulated activity with adults as work that involves:
- Providing healthcare.
- Providing personal care.
- Providing social work.
- Assisting with cash, bills, or shopping.
- Managing the person’s affairs.
- Transporting an adult to receive health, personal, or social care.
Entertaining is not included in this list because it does not involve these direct care or supervisory activities. Simply being in the same space as vulnerable adults is not a regulated activity.
- Legal Restrictions on DBS Requests: Under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 and Police Act 1997, employers can only request DBS checks for roles that meet the regulated activity criteria. Asking for a DBS check for an unregulated role is illegal because it breaches data protection laws and the individual’s rights.
- Misinformation and Fear: Insisting on DBS checks for care home entertainers perpetuates the myth that they are inherently a safeguarding risk or pose a danger to vulnerable individuals. This narrative unfairly stigmatises entertainers and discourages talented individuals from working in care homes. Such views spread unnecessary fear among care home managers, residents, and their families, creating a barrier for professionals simply bringing joy and engagement.
Relevant Legislation
- Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006: This Act sets out what qualifies as a regulated activity with adults and children. It is clear that roles such as entertainers, musicians, or performers are not included unless they engage in regulated tasks like personal care or supervision.
- Police Act 1997: This Act governs the types of roles eligible for DBS checks. It limits checks to roles that involve substantial contact with vulnerable groups through regulated activity.
- Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975: This legislation protects individuals’ spent convictions from disclosure unless their role is exempted, such as those engaging in regulated activity. For entertainers, their role does not qualify as an exemption.
In Summary
Care home entertainers do not require a DBS check because their work is not classified as a regulated activity under UK law. Misleading claims that DBS checks are mandatory perpetuate myths, creating unnecessary stigma and fear. Furthermore, it is unlawful for care homes to request DBS checks for roles outside the scope of regulated activity, as outlined in the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 and the Police Act 1997.
If you encounter care homes insisting on DBS checks for entertainers, it’s worth reminding them that their request might be in breach of the law and that safeguarding policies should align with the actual legal requirements.
