ONE of Wiltshire’s most popular steam and vintage rallies made a storming comeback after a four-year lay-off.
The annual Wessex Vintage Gathering Midsummer Show returned on Saturday (September 16) with a new venue at Bradford Leigh and a comprehensive entry after disappointment over last few years.
The club, which formed in 1977, was initiated to bring together like-minded enthusiasts in the local area.
Members have held an annual show for more than 40 years, but events over the past four years were called off due to inclement weather, the Covid pandemic, followed by cancellation of a venue.
Now the event is back on the show circuit with the summer extravaganza providing family entertainment and the smells and sounds of the good old days.
The two-day heritage event was held at Corsham Road, Bradford Leigh, attracting exhibits from near and far.
It showcased rare examples of stationary engines, tractors and farm working machinery, full-size steam-powered engines and their miniature counterparts, as well as road vehicles, vintage cars and motorcycles.
One of the local attractions was the Compton collection of 20 rare stationary engines that have been lovingly restored and returned to working condition.
They were once the main working tools in the agricultural world, powering water pumps, saw wheels, electric generators and similar stationary equipment.
One of the most unusual exhibits was the motorised miniature tanks displayed by Denny Patterson, who said: “These tanks are on a one-sixth scale and fully motorised.
“Because they move over any terrain and sound quite authentic, they are popular with the children and adults.”
Bradford on Avon sixth former Charlie Gennard was chuffed to be looking after his grandparents’ steam-driven model of a Foden lorry.
He said: “I am so interested in anything driven by steam and one day hope to have a full size steam engine of my own to exhibit at shows such as this.”
Wessex Vintage Gathering club chairman Eric Gay was delighted with the number of entries at the show.
He said: “It’s great we are now back on a showground and able to display such a vast array of machines of yesteryear.
“This event has been a great success and we are now planning to hold a show back at our original show field in Southwick next year.”
Next year’s Wessex Midsummer Vintage Show will be held on Saturday and Sunday, June 15 and 16, at Greenhill field, Bradley Road, Southwick.
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