THOUSANDS of people flocked to see historical re-enactments and war planes at the RAF Bentley Priory site in Stanmore today.

The base, which was the headquarters of RAF Fighter Command during the Battle of Britain, has opened its doors to visitors for the second time since last autumn.

Up to 3,000 residents arrived eager to soak up local history at the Grade II* listed mansion house during its four-day opening.

On Thursday and Friday, hourly tours of 40 people got to visit the historic rooms and corridors where Air Chief Marshal Sir Hugh Dowding masterminded the defence of the country during the Battle of Britain.

Crowds enthusiastically cheered on a spitfire and a hurricane plane as they flew past this Saturday afternoon.

Today and tomorrow Dowding's office and other areas return to their former glory with an historical re-enactment.

Squadron Leader Erica Ferguson, of the RAF Bentley Priory Battle of Britain Trust, said: “We’ve had a fabulous and very busy day today.

“There have been around 3,000 people here of all generations. There were all standing on the lawn to see the rather spine-chilling and exhilarating event that was the planes flying by.

“It was so moving to see tears in the eyes of the older generation who lived through the experiences of this time.

“We’ve had people from as far as Belgium, the United States and Australia visiting and it has been a pleasure to show them around.”

Harrow and Bushey museums had stalls demonstrating life in the two areas during the war, and there was also a map of local bomb damage during the Blitz.

The guided tours are fully booked, but the Bentley Priory's doors will be open free of charge from 10am to 5pm tomorrow (Sunday).