A MOTOR racing circuit is getting ready to roll back the years for its annual nostalgia festival.

The fifth annual Croft Nostalgia Weekend will have special significance this year as it falls on the 50th anniversary of the first race meeting at the Croft circuit, near Darlington.

The event, featuring vintage motor races alongside period music, dress and entertainment, will take place on Saturday and Sunday, August 2 and 3.

Organised by the Historic Sports Car Club (HSCC), the event has become a popular fixture on the racing calendar, attracting more than 250 cars from the 1940s to 1970s era.

Among the vehicles on display this year will be a Jaguar E-type, Brabham, Cooper and Lola single seaters, Lotus Cortinas and a flame-spitting Chevrolet Camaro.

Eighteen races are scheduled over the two day event to sit alongside collections of rare classic cars and motorcycles, World War Two machinery and air displays.

A fashion show through the ages will also take place, offering the public the chance to have their hair and make-up done in the 1940s style.

Some of the cars and war time machinery that will take part in the event were on display in Darlington’s Market Square today (Friday, July 11), drawing plenty of interest from admiring passers-by.

Mike Cantelo, manager of the circuit, said: “The Nostalgia Weekend is one of the acknowledged stand-out jewels in Croft’s crown.

“It is a flavour of yesteryear – although don’t forget, each and every one of the cars present was a pioneer in its day.”

Discounted advance tickets for the Croft Nostalgia Weekend can be ordered before July 18 at croftcircuit.co.uk/tickets/nostalgia.html or by calling 01325-721815.

Entry starts at £10 for Saturday entry or £23 for a weekend pass.

After the advance deadline, tickets must be purchased on the gate.

Accompanied children aged 15 and under go free, and spectators are encouraged to attend in period dress.