THE long-awaited sunshine brought soaring visitor numbers to a popular Suffolk event at the weekend.Hundreds of people turned out for this year's Woolpit Steam Rally, featuring an impressive display of vintage exhibits.

THE long-awaited sunshine brought soaring visitor numbers to a popular Suffolk event at the weekend.

Hundreds of people turned out for this year's Woolpit Steam Rally, featuring an impressive display of vintage exhibits.

And enthusiasts were not disappointed with the line-up, which included 12 full-size steam engines, 15 pre-1930s tractors, 70 stationary engines driving a range of machinery, as well as a display of around 50 vintage cars, motorcycles and fire engines.

Visitors also enjoyed working demonstrations, a traditional fairground, Punch and Judy, performing dogs, a military band, and over 50 craft and trade stalls.

Co-organiser Gerald Seeley said the two-day event - now in its 19th year - was bigger and better than ever before, with over 5,000 visitors making the most of the glorious weather.

“We really struck gold with the weather this year and we could not have wished for a nicer weekend,” he said.

“The event goes from strength-to-strength every year, and we have well exceeded last year's turnout.

“We moved the site-layout around this year which seemed to go down well with people, and as usual there was something there for everyone, young and old.

“Out thanks go to the owners of Warren Farm, in Woolpit, where the rally is held.”

All proceeds from the event will go to local charities.