Tanks for the memory

VETERAN James Patterson with the replica First World War tank he received at last year’s event

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A second world war Normandy veteran will be reunited with a unique 27-tonne tank at an event this weekend, the Chronicle can reveal.

Last year, John Wyman (92), from Uppermill, a former corporal in the Tank Regiment, received a replica of a First World War tank at the launch of the first Pennine 1940s Weekend.

But now, excited organisers of this year’s gathering are hoping a real-life, last surviving working Cromwell tank will wow audiences with its special guest appearance at the Church Inn, Uppermill.

The event, organised by the Manchester Military Vehicle Group, is being hosted by the Church Inn and nearby Cross Keys Inn on Saturday and Sunday.

Paul Cronan, the group’s treasurer, told The Chronicle: "This is likely to be the last time the tank is seen in the North-West.

"We are proud it is coming because it’s one of only two surviving and still working Cromwell tanks in Europe.

"And although Mr Wyman did not serve in a Cromwell it will have very strong affections for him because of his own, personal wartime experiences."

The tank has been fully restored and is owned by Mr Richard Wedlock one of the founder members of The Manchester Military Vehicle Group. It is powered by a Rolls Royce Meteor engine — the last surviving one in the world.

It was built in 1943 and served in Normandy and in 1952 was converted into a charioteer tank destroyer by Robinson Kershaw of Dukinfield and served with the Territorial Army until being sold to Finland in the mid 1960s.

In 2007 the Finnish army sold it off in a military auction which is when it eventually came into the hands of its current owner who lovingly restored to its current condition.

Meantime, visitors to the free event will be able to share living history displays and view military vehicles across all aspects of post 1900 military history.

An eye-catching 1941 military Humber Box, a 1943 Dodge Weapons Carrier and various other jeeps and a wide range of post war vehicles including Austin Champs and Daimler Ferrets will be on show.

The North-West Military collectors, building on the success of last year, will set up living history displays and First World War re-enactors will again be in attendance.

Mr Cronan added: "The event is aimed at informing and educating the public and enthusiasts in a fun and informal atmosphere and hopefully dispelling the 'Hollywood' myths that, on occasion, tend to cloud the realities of history."

In addition, a German living history display will show vehicles, equipment and uniforms.

Live entertainment will be provided over the weekend by the ever-popular Katz Corner with singer Miss Marina Mae appearing on the Saturday.

Last year, the generous-spirited organisers laid on a full military guard of honour for a young couple who married at St Chad’s during the event.