A SPITFIRE fly-past and dancers performing the lindy hop will help take a Stanmore air base back to the 1940s this month.

Reenactors wearing genuine clothing from the era will give visitors to Bentley Priory a taste of life during World War Two at a charity open day on May 22.

There will be live music at the event, held to raise money for the RAF Bentley Priory Battle of Britain Trust and St Luke's Hospice.

Squadron Leader Erica Ferguson, of the trust, said: “This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the 1940s and have an enjoyable family day out while supporting two local charities.

“The spitfire squadron was established as a memorial to the Battle of Britain so what better place is there to be exhibiting than the nerve centre of the Battle of Britain.”

This year is the 70th anniversary of the battle, which Bentley Priory played a key role in as the home of Fighter Command.

Air Chief Marshal Sir Hugh Dowding masterminded the country's air defence from the base during World War Two and there are plans to preserve some of the most historic rooms as a commemorative museum.

The trust is currently raising money for the project but will rely on the owners of the land, VSM Estates, securing a contract for a housing development on the site.

The Spitfire fly-past will be at 2.25pm and 2.35pm.

The event lasts all day and entrance costs £3.50 for adults, while children get in free. Guided tours must be pre-booked, with a minimum donation of £2 payable on the day.

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