A VENUE which was at the centre of furious scenes when a steam rally developed into a dispute has been snapped up by new owners.

Pickering Showground and Arena will become part of local entrepreneur Andrew Foreman’s business portfolio, The Catfoss group, after the deal was sealed last week.

The new team in charge say they will now devote their efforts to ensuring the Pickering Traction Engine Rally – the final stages of which were marred by a blockade set up by angry exhibitors when it was last held earlier this month – can return to the venue next year.

Mr Foreman, who bought the showground with partner Britt O’Sullivan and Paul and Phil Lee, of Pickering-based Cropton Brewery, said they were now in discussions with the rally’s organisers.

“We are aware of the difficulties surrounding this year’s traction engine rally,” said Mr Foreman.

“Obviously, as the new owners, we wish to avoid any negative publicity with regards to the rally in 2010.

“We are therefore offering our support to the organisers and those individuals who have come forward wanting to salvage it.

“This will hopefully create a consortium of appropriate expertise to run the event next year.

“We believe the rally is a fabulous weekend event for all the family and will endeavour to do our utmost to help support its future.”

The new owners say plans are also being drawn up to improve the main events building and grounds, with a Pickering Events Team being put together, and that a five-year development plan will be devised.