There’s something incredibly atmospheric and awe-inspiring about attending a steam rally. It evokes the sights and smells of a bygone age and although we never lived through that era, it somehow transports us into the heart of that world.
Stonham Barns will be aiming to create that feeling this weekend as hundreds of tons worth of steam traction engines along with classic tractors, cars and motorbikes will be heading there for the venue's Steam and Vintage Show.
The event will feature 11 full-size traction engines each weighing around 10 tons and 14 scale model traction engines weighing on average 5 tons along with a variety of antique rural steam-powered machinery including steam tractors, steam lorries, steam threshing machines, steam rollers, steam cranes, stationary engines, classic cars and motorbikes.
The Steam and Vintage Show aims to shine a light on rural history for fans of all ages but especially the younger generation to provide a practical backdrop to school-based educational Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) programs.
Natel Taylor, who restored his Wallis and Stevens expansion engine Faith, after rescuing it from a ditch in Lavenham 53 years ago, will be at the event showing visitors around his now famous machine and giving demonstrations of how it works.
Gary Newland, Stonham Barns events manager, said: 'It promises to be a wonderful show. Steam engines and other vintage agricultural equipment have proved enduringly popular - it is the nostalgia, They allow people to take themselves away and submerge themselves in days gone by. "There is an amazing array of attractions - kids of all ages will love it."
Entertaining the crowds at the show will be Richard Little, a Norfolk sheep dog trainer who will be demonstrating shepherding skills as well as Bryan Clarke, a professional Punch & Judy man for well over 60 years, who has made and supplied puppets from his workshop near Lowestoft for 36 years. In addition, there will be a display of Hylands Heavy Horses, from Hylands Hall, Chelmsford.
Visitors will also be able to enjoy vintage fairground attractions with a selection of rides and old-time funfair stalls, a vintage market selling retro and antique clothing and other historic items of interest.
There will also be live music, entertainment areas with food, drink, Morris dancing and vintage related trade and craft stalls.
The Steam and Vintage Show takes place on May 18-19 between 10am and 4pm. Ticket cost: Adult £10, Concessions £8, 4-15 year olds £5, family ticket £25 (2 adults + 2 children)
Under 4's: Free. For further information: www.stonhambarns.co.uk/whats-on/stonham-barns-steam-vintage-show/
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