HISTORY will be brought to life at what has been billed as the north's premier military vehicle and re-enactment event.

The Yorkshire Wartime Experience, which began today and runs until Sunday, is being held at Hunsworth Lane in the East Bierley area of Bradford. 

Visitors will be able to take a step back in time at the event, which includes a realistic World War One trench, scores of living history re-enactment groups, plenty of military vehicles including tanks and Jeeps, and lots of stalls selling various things from vintage clothing to collectables.

Defusing a recreated World War Two German sea mine is Tony Boyle Defusing a recreated World War Two German sea mine is Tony Boyle (Image: Newsquest/Mike Simmonds)

There will also be music and dancing on offer. 

Speaking before the event got under way this morning, Sarah Clarke, who is one of the organisers, told the Telegraph & Argus: "We're really excited to get going.

"The Yorkshire Wartime Experience guarantees an action-packed and fun day out for all the family.

Ian and Alison Topham show some of that wartime spirit at the eventIan and Alison Topham show some of that wartime spirit at the event (Image: Newsquest/Mike Simmonds)

"We've been planning it all for the last 12 months and it always promises to be a highlight of our year."

Sarah added: "We always love welcoming visitors - and hopefully crowds will come like they do each year.

"People attend from all over the UK - in fact we've got one re-enactor from France - and they always have smiles on their faces."

James Coates-Raisbeck with Dave Riddings in the recreated trenchJames Coates-Raisbeck with Dave Riddings in the recreated trench (Image: Newsquest/Mike Simmonds)

She said the Yorkshire Wartime Experience was important in "helping to keep history alive".

"It's not just a fun event, it's also an educational event," she added.

"It's brilliant to see all ages here, including youngsters who learn a lot about historic events which should never be forgotten."

Another picture from the event as it got under wayAnother picture from the event as it got under way (Image: Newsquest/Mike Simmonds)

The event's website states: "The Yorkshire Wartime Experience is a tribute to the first and second world wars, right through to more current conflicts. 

"This year we are commemorating and celebrating the great World War Two conflicts of D-Day, now 80 years since this moment in our wartime history. 

"The Yorkshire Wartime Experience has something for everyone."

Sarah said an "amazing" team of volunteers help to make the event possible.

She also praised event directors Debbie Boothman, Nelz Nelson, Stuart Wright, as well as the rest of the organisation team, Ricky McAllister, Roy Murfin, Tanya Murfin, Debbie Brook, Gilly Nelson, Martyn McCulloch and Elaine Doonan.

Visitors to the Yorkshire Wartime Experience can pay on the gate, which opens at 10am.

For more information on the event, visit www.yorkshirewartime.co.uk