Bentley Priory 1940s day attracted more than 3,000 (From Harrow Times)

Bentley Priory 1940s day attracted more than 3,000 to Stanmore airbase

7:30am Wednesday 26th May 2010 in News By Jack Royston

RECORD numbers of people filled the grounds of a Stanmore airbase for a 1940s day.

The totals for the gate at the event have been revealed today, showing more than 3,000 residents flocked to RAF Bentley Priory on Saturday.

This year is the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain and the rooms where Air Chief Marshal Sir Hugh Dowding planned the country's air defence were opened to the public.

Squadron Leader Erica Ferguson, of the RAF Bentley Priory Battle of Britain Trust, said: “It was absolutely packed.

“The carpark was full, the football pitch was full, in the end I had to shut the gates. An enormous crowd of at least 3,000 people enjoyed the action.

“The skies were absolutely reminiscent of the Battle of Britain because it was all fought under brilliant blue skies during a brilliant hot summer.”

Bentley Priory was the home of Fighter Command during World War Two, and the event at the weekend included a Spitfire flypast, and actors in genuine clothing from the era.

Money raised during the event will be split between the trust and St Luke's Hospice and organisers were aiming for a target of £20,000.

Funds raised have not yet been added up.