VISITORS to an attraction stepped back in time to the 1940s for an informative event at the weekend.

Several hundred people headed to Llanyrafon Manor on Saturday to see what it was like in the local area during the wartime period.

Re-enactors dressed as air raid wardens, policemen and soldiers, while men Nick Thomas and John Shears from Cwmbran, brought an authentic 1940s jeep and weaponry along.

John Thomas, 54, told the Argus he was dressed as an American soldier, one of many stationed in Cwmbran during the period.

Youngsters had a chance to make boxes to put gas masks in and a cider press was enjoyed by the older visitors.

Mr Thomas, who owns the 1940s Swansea Bay museum, said there is a risk the era may be forgotten if events are not held to educate the public.

"The local people were very enthusiastic and were very interested in what had gone on in their area," he added.

The event was one of a series organised by Torfaen Council following a £1m revamp.

The manor, which reopened in June, is now a rural heritage centre thanks to funding from the likes of the council, CADW and the Welsh Government.