THERE was an air of excitement at Davidstow last weekend when old friends met up again to share their passion for the history of past conflicts in the annual war machines event with various military groups displaying vehicles and weapons.

The tenth War Machines Weekend was held at Davidstow Airfield and Cornwall at War Museum.

Lawson Kent, secretary of the Cornwall Area Military Vehicle Trust, said: “We come here because Sheila and Steve Parry are staunch military vehicle trust members and have been for years — we come to support them and have a good time. It changes every year so there is always something different to see.”

This event is the museum’s ‘special’ weekend. It was therefore a treat for the public to be able to visit the museum, wander around the various displays and view military vehicles such as American jeeps still used in Vietnam today, following the war there; vintage LandRovers, and the Reo 2.5 tonne and 5 tonne American trucks. The Reo 2.5 tonne American truck and the GMC, Great Britain truck both carried machine guns. Another Great Britain truck was the RB 44. All vehicles were in immaculate condition.

Elizabeth and Richard Harwood, visitors from Michaelstow, said: “It’s a worthwhile weekend and the price is very reasonable. The people are very passionate too.”

The museum keeps history alive and is well supported by its volunteers — two, George and Bettie Greenaway, have been volunteering there before the museum opened in 2005. They attend once a week and come all the way from Fraddon. Bettie was making sure everyone bought a raffle ticket in the cafe for a flight in a light aircraft.

For the full report, and a round-up of the area news and sport, see this week’s edition of the Post.