Ukraine war casts doubt over Woodhall Spa 1940s weekend

Organisers are asking the public whether it is appropriate to go ahead with a wartime-themed event given the situation in Ukraine

The organisers of a wartime-themed event in Lincolnshire are asking the public whether it should go ahead while the Ukraine conflict continues.

The Woodhall Spa 1940s Festival, which features parades and re-enactments, is scheduled to take place in July.

Up to 45,000 people visit the festival every year, with the organising committee due to make a decision on this year's event on Wednesday.

People are being asked to share their views via an online survey.

In a statement on social media, organisers said: "Given the current situation in the Ukraine, [we] would like to know your view on whether you think it is appropriate to go ahead with our celebration of the 1940s Homefront wartime-themed event this year.

"While we examine all the considerations and work towards a decision, we would appreciate your view," it added.

'Historic era'

The move was met with a mixed reaction.

One local business owner told BBC Radio Lincolnshire she believed it should go ahead.

"Personally, I don't see the 40s weekend as a celebration of the war - it's more about the resilience of the people... during that time.

"It's an historic era - the clothing, the vehicles - the way of life was so different then and it's nice to have that reminder," she said.

Another said: "How can we reflect on the end of war, and celebrate peace in Europe, when there is no peace?"

Last month, The Lincolnshire Wolds Railway took the decision to cancel its 1940s weekend.

Spokesperson Matt Riley said it was felt it would be "insensitive".

North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) also cancelled its event planned for October.

Chris Price, NYMR chief executive, said it would be wrong to hold the event when people in Ukraine faced a "tense, dangerous and distressing" time.

Details of the Woodhall Spa survey can be found on the festival website.