Burley Steam and Vintage Vehicle Show enjoys bumper crowds

AROUND 2,000 people enjoyed the biggest ever Burley Steam and Vintage Vehicle Show.

Despite overnight rain, steam enthusiasts travelled from across the south to take part in the popular rally, which included a live music showcase from Shortstack and Sides.

Proceeds from the event are donated to the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, with early indications suggesting the charity will receive more than £1,000.

Exhibits included working saw-benches, classic steam engines, vintage tractors and commercial vehicles, as well as a colourful display of motorbikes, cars and stationary engines. Families also enjoyed mini vintage stream rides.

Organiser Jon Narey said: “Setting up for the steam fair on Friday was a bit of a challenge but by Saturday the weather was fantastic and we had really good attendance. I would estimate that we had well over 2,000 visitors throughout the weekend.

“This year we had a really impressive range of engines – it was our biggest event ever. All the exhibitors give their time for free to raise money for charity.”

Other highlights of the event, which took place at Burley Park, included live music, gun dog demonstrations, traditional crafts, stalls and food-and-drink outlets.

Jon added: “I would personally like to thank all the volunteers and committee members who gave up their weekend to help ensure that everything went so well. We really could not do it without them.”