Differing weather couldn’t stop the crowds heading to the annual Woolpit Steam Rally.

The two day event, at Warren Farm, Wetherden, saw 3,000 people attend yesterday, with good numbers expected today.

David Seeley, co-organiser of the event along with his father, Gerald, said: “On Saturday we had around 3,000 people attend, which is slightly better than expected.

“We had a great first day – the sun was shining, and the weather was kind.

“I guess people saw the forecast and decided to come out on Saturday.”

Mr Seeley also said the showers were not dampening spirits, as a “steady trickle” of people came through the gates, adding: “We’ll get a day out of it. We live in England so you expect a bit of rain.”

The star attraction at the rally was a display of Barford and Perkins motor rollers.

Mr Seeley said although it was a small display, which featured the world’s oldest petrol motor roller from 1905 and models built until 1934, it was something different that visitors wouldn’t see at other attractions.

He added: “We spoke to owners across the country to get the machines together.

“This is sort of a forgotten era. They were aimed at local authorities who would use them to repair roads, and bigger county estates as well, but they also sold into places like Newmarket Jockey Club.”

Mr Seeley said those sort of attractions were unique to Woolpit, and had the ability to capture visitors’ imaginations.

“A lot of people were walking around the display, and it was well received, which we’re very pleased with,” he added.

There was also a collection of practical displays, including woodsawing, and making feed for farm animals, which proved as popular as it did every year.

“There were planks being sawed, as well as logs for firewood,” Mr Seeley added.

“There was a good crowd around it, and because there’s a lot of machinery and lots of things going on people always stop to watch it.

“You can see rows of vehicles at every show but the working demonstrations is what makes us a little bit different.”

Mr Seeley said the event, which supports a number of local charities, was “something positive for the whole community.”

He added: “thank-you to everybody that has supported us – exhibitors, sponsors, the public – and all the organisations that help during the weekend to make it a success.”