TWO Chelsea Pensioners marked the 70th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day by visiting an exhibition detailing what life was like during the Second World War.

Mike Preston and Denis Shields were given a guided tour of the World of James Herriot, in Thirsk, and focused on its air-raid shelter in the cellar of the author and vet Alf Wight's house, which features are artefacts and sounds and smells of the 1940s.

The pair decided to visit the attraction for their annual holiday after it emerged they had both read all of the Herriot books and seen the films and TV series.

Ian Ashton, the museum's managing director, said the Chelsea Pensioners were particularly interested in the newly-established James Herriot Legacy Fund, which aims to provide bursary support for young people who wish to become vets or animal care specialists.

He added: “This was a most timely visit considering the VE Day commemorations and both Mike and Denis were especially interested in our World War bunker display in the cellar of the centre."