GROUPS around North Yorkshire have remembered the Second World War in different ways this week as part of the 71st anniversary of the Baedeker Raids.

On Monday the congregation of St Martin’s Church in Coney Street, York, met to light lanterns in memory of all those who were killed or injured in the Baedeker and other air raids around York.

The service, which included prayers for world peace, was also a celebration of the first anniversary of the church becoming a partner in the Community Of The Cross of Nails – an international society dedicated to peace and reconciliation.

And this weekend, visitors to a North Yorkshire stately home will be able to travel back in time to commemorate life in the 1940s.

Beningbrough Hall will host three days of nostalgia events over the Bank Holiday weekend, with re-enactors dressed in military uniform and vintage clothing on hand to take part in drill activities, explain Morse code to children, or teach visitors to jive to the music of the time.

On Monday, there will also be the chance to look around the cockpit of a Spitfire aircraft, restored by Neil and Amanda McCarthy, and due to be rehomed at RAF Linton-on-Ouse.

Jo Parker, events and marketing co-ordinator at Beningbrough, said: “It’s a rare opportunity to come and see inside the cockpit, which has been lovingly restored by the couple, especially as it will then be taking residence in its new Yorkshire home at a nearby air base.

“The war history at Beningbrough is perhaps not so well known, so it’s a great opportunity to come and visit this weekend and embrace an atmosphere to remember.”

The celebration at Beningbrough, part of the attraction’s From Country Lanes To Violent Skies exhibition, runs from Saturday to Monday. For more information on visiting, phone 01904 472027 or visit nationaltrust.org.uk/beningbrough.