Fordingbridge Steam and Vintage Festival on 25th to 27th August at Fryern Court Road in Burgate to replace Great Dorset Steam Fair

A NEW steam festival will be held in Fordingbridge this weekend after the cancellation of the Great Dorset Steam Fair.

Featuring steam engines, vintage tractors, classic cars and motorbikes, as well as traditional ploughing and farming equipment, the Fordingbridge Steam and Vintage Festival will take place from 25th to 27th August at Fryern Court Road in Burgate.

Opening from 8am to 11pm each day, the show will also feature an array of animals, performers and horses. The Watercress Line will also be supplying a spectacular green engine.

An event spokesperson said: ”We are a group of dedicated people who have come together to create a brand new and exciting family friendly event for 2023.

“As a very popular steam fair event that has taken place in Dorset for many years is no longer– a great disappointment to many – the aim of this new festival is to offer an alternative; albeit a scaled down version in its first year.

“Our vision is to create a celebration of all things steam and vintage for the enjoyment of exhibitors, as well as the general public.”

This year’s event will have a pre-1970s theme, so visitors are encouraged to don their best vintage gear from leg warmers to pant suits and giant flares.

Live bands will be performing in the evening, and the event will feature a bar and food stalls. Parking is free and dogs are welcome, on a lead.

Day tickets are £15 for adults and free for children.

Entry after 5pm is £10, with live music from 7pm.