Steam rally organisers hope for smooth weekend mix of music and machinery

As well as its usual display of vintage machinery, the event on the town’s showground is featuring a musical festival for the first time.

This year visitors will be able to see a host of bands – with performances on the main stage taking place this evening, all day tomorrow and Sunday morning.

Musicians playing include ex-member of The Jam Bruce Foxton, Miles Gilderdale and Hazel O’Connor backed by the Subterraneans.

Organisers are expecting record crowds despite heavy rain affecting numbers yesterday.

Joint organiser Simon Boak said: “There is a lot of music going on and more exhibits than ever, including 1,000 vintage vehicles, crafts and antiques stalls and model engine exhibitions – there’s loads of entertainment.

“I’m looking forward to a successful weekend and hopefully everything will run smoothly.

“There’s already a great atmosphere with the music so it should be a fantastic event.”

The rally, which has been dubbed the biggest four-day spectacular in the UK, takes place until Sunday. About 30,000 visitors are set to descend on the showground.