A SECOND World War stalwart will make a special appearance at a museum near York this Bank Holiday.

The historic Douglas C47 Dakota will give a flying display and land during the Yorkshire Air Museum's Battlegroup North Wargames and Military Vehicle show.

The US-made Dakota was the mainstay of airborne transport during the war.

The event will take place on Sunday and Monday, when onlookers at the Elvington museum will have the chance to see one of the world's most well-known aircraft at close quarters, along with the many other aircraft on display.

This includes the museum's own Dakota, on which restoration work is nearly complete.

The museum would like to thank the management of Elvington airfield for their co-operation in making it possible to accommodate the landing request, received from the BBMF Historic Flight at RAF Conningsby.

The Dakota will land following the display on Sunday afternoon and depart on Monday, giving enthusiasts two opportunities to see the aircraft.

About 50 historic military vehicles will join the wargames exhibitors and traders converging on the museum, from as far afield as London, Nottingham, Manchester, Lincoln, Doncaster, Leeds & West Yorkshire, and the North-East.

The interesting mix of demonstration games explores such themes as a Battle of Britain Operations Room, a Dambusters participation scenario, and Pegasus Bridge, making the show a "must" for all serious modelling enthusiasts.

Re-enactments will focus on the more light-hearted Home Guard theme, and Captain Mainwaring, among others, could well be spotted during the event.

Public opening times are between 10am and 5pm on both days, and admission is £6 adult, £4 senior citizen and £3 children. For further information, phone 01904 608595.

Updated: 10:10 Friday, May 02, 2003