SPITFIRES, swing music and dance displays are all in the mix for a special Forties Day at Bentley Priory.

Organised by St Luke's Hospice and the Bentley Priory Battle of Britain Trust, the all-day event, on Saturday, May 22, will transport visitors back in time to the wartime era.

During the day, visitors can enjoy an afternoon tea, a Spitfire display, military, brass and steel pan bands, dance, drill and re-enactment displays and an art exhibition. For youngsters there are plenty of children's workshops on offer and regular tours of the priory will be available.

Entrance costs £3.50, children free. Guided tours must be pre-booked, minimum donation of £2 payable on the day.

The evening's events will include Forties dance displays, an art exhibition, and music from the Apollo Male Voice Choir.

Visitors can relax on the terrace with panoramic views of London or enjoy a drink in the officer's mess before a two course dinner and dancing to the sounds of Jazz Hands Swing Orchestra.

Full price is £25 to include a two-course meal. Discount price of £22.50 is available to pensioners, and those booking before the end of March.

Bentley Priory is a handsome country house which has gone down in history as the headquarters of Fighter Command, the spot from which Sir Hugh Dowding directed his men in the Battle of Britain.

For information and to make a booking, contact Mita Vaghji on 020 8382 8063 or visit www.stlukes-hospice.org