Thunderbirds are go for Flights of Fantasy weekend at RAF Museum Cosford

Alan Shubrook, special effects designer on Thunderbirds as well as Captain Scarlet and Joe 90, was among the VIP guests as fantasy fans flocked to the museum.

Sylvia Anderson, who co-created the iconic science fiction shows with husband Gerry and voiced Lady Penelope, appeared at the exhibition on Saturday but cancelled an appearance on Sunday due to "unforeseen circumstances".

But with voices and puppet makers of some of the show's favourite characters - as well as a host of stalls and rare collector's items - on display there was plenty to keep the huge crowds enthralled.

Many of the puppets on display were original studio puppets being shown exclusively for the very first time at the event.

Mr Shubrook said the crowds were bringing back 50-year-old memories for him.

"We were so far ahead of our time," he said of working on the show.

"It was a fantastic team and we spent all of our time together.

"I see some of the shows now and I remember how we did the explosions - and the trauma if they had gone wrong.

"I'd have to remake the models again after they'd exploded if we got the shot wrong, and do it all again.

"But we took great pride in our work."

Puppets on show included Gordon, Alan and Scott Tracey, Troy Tempest and Captain Scarlet and The Mysterons.

Shane Rimmer, who voiced Scott Tracey, said: "It's been a blockbuster of an event.

"They're all so knowledgeable - they know more about Thunderbirds than I do."

"It's incredible the way this carries on and the popularity still surprises me.

"I think one of the most fortunate days of my life was stepping into Gerry Anderson's office.

"It was the best time of my life."

Puppet specialists Mary Turner and Judith Shutt gave a demonstration with Lady Penelope and Parker during the Flights of Fantasy weekend.

Meanwhile Ms Anderson, who was making a rare public appearance, described the intricacies involved in making the popular puppets.

The 87-year-old said: "When people see the puppets they say, 'I didn't think they would be that tall, or that small'.

"We had to give those puppets everything.

"They had to look absolutely right and be the best that they could."

Fans could buy Thunderbirds collectables, mini characters, their own Tracey Island or vent some Captain Scarlet bubble bath. Gerry Anderson comic books were also for sale, as well as model Thunderbirds aircraft and other sci-fi memorabilia from shows such as Dr Who and Star Wars.