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
Get Ready for Clipstone at War 2025: A Journey Back in Time!
Clipstone at War returns for 2025
Mark your calendars and join us at the Historic Clipstone Headstocks on 19-20 July 2025 for an unforgettable experience at the “Clipstone at War” event! Step back in time and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the 1940s with a range of activities and attractions designed to transport you straight to the heart of wartime Britain.
What to Expect:
- Vintage Vehicles: Marvel at an array of classic wartime vehicles that will take you back to a bygone era.
- Living Historians: Engage with knowledgeable reenactors who bring history to life with their authentic portrayals.
- Military Reenactments: Watch dramatic recreations of historical military scenes and gain insight into wartime life.
- Period Entertainers: Enjoy performances from talented entertainers dressed in period costumes, adding a touch of nostalgia to your visit.
- Vintage Traders: Browse stalls featuring a variety of vintage goods, memorabilia, and crafts.
- Food and Drink: Delight in a selection of delicious food and drinks, perfect for refueling as you explore.
The event runs from 10:00 to 17:00 each day at the Clipstone Headstocks, located at NG21 9EH. Admission is £5 for adults, £3 for those over 10, and free for children under 10.
Don’t miss this chance to experience history come alive at the Clipstone Headstocks. We look forward to seeing you there for a weekend of fun, learning, and nostalgia!
Stay tuned for more updates and details as we get closer to the event.
Kind regards,
Jayne Darling
Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of the Flying Nightingales at RAF Blakehill Farm
I had the honour of being invited to sing at the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the first flight of the Flying Nightingales. This significant event took place on Thursday, 13th June 2024, at the historic site of RAF Blakehill Farm.
Who Were the Flying Nightingales?
The Flying Nightingales were a remarkable group of female nurses and medical staff who bravely served during World War II. They were part of the Air Evacuation Service, transporting wounded soldiers from the battlefields of Europe back to Britain. These courageous women flew into war zones, provided critical care mid-air, and played a pivotal role in saving countless lives. Their dedication and bravery earned them the fitting nickname, “Flying Nightingales.”
The 80th Anniversary Commemoration
The 80th anniversary event at RAF Blakehill Farm was a fitting tribute to these incredible women. RAF Blakehill Farm itself is steeped in history, having served as a vital airfield during the war. The site was a perfect location to honour the legacy of the Flying Nightingales and reflect on their invaluable contributions.
As a vintage singer with a deep appreciation for the music and history of the 1940s, it was an immense privilege to be part of this commemoration. The atmosphere was poignant, with attendees including families, senior members of the RAF and history enthusiasts. Singing timeless classics from the era, I aimed to evoke the spirit and resilience of those who lived through those challenging times.
Reflecting on Their Legacy
The event was not only a celebration of the past but also a reminder of the bravery and compassion that defines the Flying Nightingales’ legacy. Their stories of courage and dedication continue to inspire us today. Meeting some of the members families was incredibly moving and reinforced the importance of remembering and honouring our history.
A Day to Remember
The 80th anniversary of the Flying Nightingales at RAF Blakehill Farm was a day filled with reflection, gratitude, and reverence. It was a privilege to contribute to the commemoration and to keep the memory of these extraordinary women alive through music. Their legacy serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and compassion that can emerge even in the darkest of times.
For more insights into my performances and upcoming events, stay tuned to my blog and social media channels. Together, we can continue to honour the past and celebrate the enduring spirit of the 1940s.
1940s & 1950s Night at Kilnwick Percy
Date: 9th November 2024
Arrival: From 7.30pm
Show Starts: 8:15pm
Join us for a fabulous evening celebrating the style and glamour of the 1940s and 1950s with the talented Jayne Darling. Immerse yourself in the era and enjoy a performance that will transport you back in time.
Tickets:
- £13 per person (event only)
- £16.95 per person (includes a hot bacon bap)
To book your tickets, call us on 01759 303090 or email events@kilnwickpercy.co.uk.
Don’t miss out on this spectacular night of nostalgia and entertainment!
Stapleford, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, LE14 2SG
starts at 10 am each day
Sat 29th and Sun 30th July
Adults £6 Children £3
