Now in its 16th year, the North Yorkshire Moors Railway’s Wartime Weekend attracts about 10,000 visitors and re-enactors from across the country, plus local people who want to see the spectacle.

And spread over three days, it gives the local economy a massive shot in the arm.

From accommodation providers to food outlets and filling stations to charities, all see a big increase in takings.

Town Mayor Mal Danks, who will take the salute at Saturday morning’s parade, said: “For some people the Wartime Weekend worries them because it revives memories of the war, but there’s more to it than that – it’s a celebration of community spirit.

“On top of that it’s an important weekend for local businesses and charities who see a boost in their trade.

“I know it’s difficult in terms of traffic and parking because it’s so busy over the weekend, but I think it’s a good event that’s good for the town. We could do with something like it in the spring.”

Ryedale Council tourism officer Craig Nattress said staff at Pickering Tourist Information Centre had been “run off their feet” in recent weeks dealing with inquiries about the weekend. They are handling calls about accommodation, events, where to eat and drink and about evening entertainment.

He added that local hotels, guest-houses and bed and breakfasts in Ryedale were so full that self-catering holiday cottages were being used to meet the demand for short- break stays, together with accommodation providers outside the district towards Scarborough and York.

The BP filling station in Malton Road is also gearing up for a busy weekend.

Manager George Iveson said: “We had an extra staff member on duty on the Saturday last year because it was so busy. We even had one or two tanks filling up.”

The Railway itself is on full steam ahead for its biggest money spinner of the year.

Marketing manager Phil Bustard said with the Market Place packed for Saturday’s parade a full risk assessment has to be carried out.

“Every available carriage is used to run the maximum number of services over the weekend. As soon as the parade is over we run two trains almost within half an hour of each other to allow as many people as possible to go up the line. It’s a hectic weekend and we couldn’t do it without our volunteers.”