ORGANISERS of the Marcle Steam Rally, which took place at Rye Meadows, last weekend are hailing it as one of their most successful shows ever.

The event, organised by the Herefordshire Traction Engine and Vintage Company Limited, attracted an estimated 14,000 people over the two days and took almost £22,000 on the gate.

Treasurer Alan Brace said: "It was one of our best years, not the best ever; three years ago we took over £22,000. But it was very satisfying. Once we have all the bills settled up, we should be OK."

Each year, proceeds from the massive show are ploughed back into the next rally.

Usually, at the AGM, a sum of £1,000 is set aside for local charities, such as the Ledbury Cottage Hospital.

Attractions at this year's rally included vintage cars and traction engines, fun fair, models and crafts and even can can dancers.

There were 39 steam traction engines, including the veteran Lady Betty from 1902 and the massive King George of 1913, which had not been on the circuit for a few years.

There were demonstrations of steam ploughing where a plough on a cable was drawn down the furrows by steam power.

In addition, there were 130 tractors and 150 vintage motorcycles and over 100 trade stands.

Secretary Pat Chester said: "It went very well. It was a wonderful weekend and we were blessed by good weather."

One of the highlights for the youngsters was a presence of Burmese mountain dogs, which travelled round the site pulling carts with churns.There were two unfortunate incidents at the show. Soft toys valued in total at £120 were stolen from a show tent and 25 overalls/ boiler suits also went missing.

Mrs Chester said: "Sadly, these sorts of thing do go on; one of the bad elements of this day and age. This is something we are looking into."

n A steam and countryside rally takes place at Welland from July 28-30.