Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome to recreate 1914 war experience

Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome near Maldon, Europe’s largest surviving First World War airfield, is stepping back in time on Saturday, August 5, and Sunday, August 6.

The popular museum will welcome leading living history groups from across the country, led by long-term partners the Nimy Company, to give visitors a rare glimpse into the past.

Historical - leading Living History groups from across the country, led by long-term partners The Nimy Company (Image: The Nimy Company)

Soldiers - 10th Essex Regiment aiming (Image: Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome)

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Men and women will be recreating the fateful weekend in 1914 when the armed forces of Great Britain were mobilised to defend Belgium and France.

Visitors will be able to mingle among the soldiers and their camps and watch displays of musketry, drill and more.

Airfield chief executive officer Ian Flint said: "Speaking as a huge fan of living history, I know how rare it is for these groups to be able to get together on such an iconic site.

Event - 10th Essex Regiment (Image: Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome)

Experience - Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome is set to host a 1914 inspired event (Image: James Langlois)

"Dedicated World War One sites are rare – and because Stow is so untouched, it is a hugely popular place for historians.

"For the visitor, it’s a chance to see, hear and perhaps feel the atmosphere of a Great War military camp coming to life around them."

Assistant curator Doug Shorter added: "To be able to really enjoy the living history camps, as well as our exhibitions and hangars, for a regular entry fee will be a bonus to all our family supporters, especially this early in the school holidays. It’s going to be great fun."

Recreation -Great War Society (Image: Great War Society)

Exploring - Great War Society to appear at the event (Image: Great War Society)

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This major fundraiser supports work to preserve Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome, which features the largest collection of Royal Flying Corps buildings in the world.

Event - Hangar to represent the 1914 event (Image: Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome)

1914 - Nimy Company soldiers set to appear at 1914 living event (Image: James Langlois)

It was the base for B flight of 37 Squadron, Royal Flying Corps whose mission was to protect London from raids by German Zeppelin airships and Gotha heavy bombers.

Tickets for A Call to Arms can be booked in advance online at www.stowmaries.org.uk or bought on the day.