Temple at War show back in Cressing after three years

The Temple at War Show returned to Cressing last weekend, bringing history to life through war re-enactments, showing off vehicles and other activities.

The show was created in 2015 and is organised by the Caton family, Glenn and wife Nicola, along with sons Tom and Edd.

Glenn said: “My eldest son Tom, who used to be involved in the re-enactment circle, came and said to me that he thought we could run an event like the ones he was going to.

“We started as novices in 2015, and it has been growing ever since.

“Nowadays we are a family event, with a friendly atmosphere, inviting all who want to come and learn about our history.”

The event has a variety of war-themed activities, shows and talks put on to attendees.

Glenn added: “We like to think of ourselves as a living museum, that reflects the First and Second World Wars as well as modern warfare up until the 70s and 80s.

“There is so much to do, from watching re-enactors that portray those eras, to defusing bombs, lifting weapons and speaking to special guests.

“We had Corporal Nauyokas from Bad Lads Army, Officer Crabtree from Allo Allo, Andrew Robertshaw from Time Team, and the spitfires flew past both days too, it was great.”

The weather was all sunshine, with light rain on the Sunday, but this did not stop the thousands that attended.

Glenn estimated about 4,000 people came to the weekend long show and said that both days were a huge success.

He said: “People loved it, and many said they’d come again.

“One that particularly stuck with me was an American serviceman who came, who typically acts as a guide in the pearl harbour museum in Hawaii, saying he absolutely loved it.

“Even after three years it was fantastic, and we can’t thank the public and our re-enactors enough for the great atmosphere and shows they put on.”