A HISTORIC former air base which played a pivotal role in World War Two was the centrepiece of an action-packed 1940s-themed open day.

RAF Bentley Priory played host to the charity fundraising day, in aid of St Luke's Hospice in Kenton and the Battle of Britain Trust which works to preserve the former air base.

People came dressed in wartime clothes, musicians entertained the throngs of people with songs from the 1940s, and the day culminated in a Spitfire swooping over the grounds to the delight of onlookers.

Donald Thornton, 63, from the Hatfield Home Guard was showing off artifacts from the war time, including guns, ammunition and explosives issued to the Home Guard.

His organisation goes to shows and events throughout the year explaining to people the role of the Home Guard during the war, and said: "People always thanks us for what we are doing, helping to keep the memory alive.

"It was a hard time in the 40s and they do appreciate it.”

The lifelong Wealdstone resident added of Bentley Priory: “I think it's fabulous, It's a little piece of England here.

“I hope they keep it, and they don't pull it down. They should save it, it's our heritage.”

Hundreds of people came to yesterday's 1940s day, and some even had to be turned away at the gates as the historic air base and its grounds were packed out.

Organisers are hoping large sums of money will have been raised for the Kenton hospice and to go towards a museum at Bentley Priory celebrating its significance.

It was the headquarters of Fighter Command where Air Chief Marshal Sir Hugh Dowding masterminded the defeat of the Germans in the Battle of Britain.

Volunteers led guided tours around the building, showing Sir Hugh's office and the rooms where he planned the air assault.

In the backdrop of the open day is continued uncertainty over the future of the site and the possibility of a Battle of Britain Museum at Bentley Priory.

While Squadron Leader Erica Ferguson and the trust are working hard to make the museum a reality, it relies on owners VSM Estates securing a housing development contract on the site.