Thirty thousand expected at steam extravaganza (From Gazette & Herald)

Thirty thousand expected at Pickering Traction Engine Rally

9:11am Friday 3rd August 2012 in News

ONE of the biggest traction engine rallies in the country is building up steam in North Yorkshire as it celebrates its Diamond Jubilee .

Thirty thousand people or more are expected to attend the Pickering Traction Engine Rally, which started yesterday and will run until Sunday at Pickering Showground, situated on the A169 just outside the town.

A special line-up of events includes a line of showmen’s locomotives from as far afield as north Scotland, a classic motorcycle show of more than 300 bikes, veteran vintage and classic cars.

There are also more than 100 miniature steam engines, 400 tractors, steam railways, steam-powered heavy haulage vehicles and more than 200 static engines.

Entertainment is being staged in two arenas and there are three stage shows with magicians, dancers and entertainers, a Victorian funfair and white knuckle rides, while hot air balloon rides are giving visitors the chance to see all the fun of the fair from the skies.

Other attractions include threshing and sawing displays, steam yachts, road runs featuring steam, tractor and vehicles on the move and vintage plant and machinery.

Thousands of people are also expected to gather tomorrow night to see a firework display.

Organiser Richard Ashworth said he was delighted to celebrate the 60th anniversary of what had become one of the biggest rallies of its kind in the country, with exhibitors coming from across the UK and abroad.

He said: “Last year, 30,000 people enjoyed four days of thrilling entertainment and we hope this year, thousands more will come and get behind one of North Yorkshire’s proud traditions.”