Shoppers were searching the skies last Saturday (29th September) when the the sound of an air raid siren was heard over Monmouth.

Fortunately, it was announcing the arrival of a Second World War-themed weekend at the town's Shire Hall.

The attractions included a display of military vehicles, a 1940s fashion show, jive lessons, rationed recipe demonstrations vintage clothing stalls, the NAAFI cafe and an authentic underground bunker in the vaults of the imposing building.

Evening entertainment included a 1940s dance with Monmouth's Big Band.

Year 13 students from Haberdashers' Monmouth School for Girls and Monmouth School took on the challenge of running the 'NAAFI' themed café from 1940's Britain.

With the help of staff at the Shire Hall, the council chamber was transformed back in time to a cheerful riot of bunting, union jacks and historical displays.

Delicious cakes were piled high provided by HMSG's catering team; cheese and spam sandwiches completed the feast.   The tea urn steamed as 'Moonlight Serenade' and 'In the Mood', old favourites from Glen Miller's band filled the room.

Looking fabulous, dressed in original 1940s clothing loaned from the Shire Hall, Alice Stephenson, Cassie Gibson, Ella Sutherland, Isabel Wood, Liberty Kefalas, Lydia Taylor and Sam Mather took their places behind the counter ready to meet and serve the public.

They were joined by Oti George-Ikoli (pictured with the girls) dressed in an original Second World War uniform and staff including Miss Attrill, Mrs Jones, Mrs Vickers and Mr Evans who helped throughout the day.

In the spirit of wartime Britain, the minor hiccup of tripping out electricity didn't dampen the girls' spirits, nor did the endless trips in the lift to get to the kitchen two floors below.

The day, which was born out of creating an 'Apprentice style' task for Business students, was a huge success, linking the school with its local community.

The Royal British Legion was chosen as a fitting charity to whom the school will be donating all the profits. After a busy day's service and aching feet, the tables were cleared and the bunting sadly packed away.