Burley Steam Fair raises £1,000 for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance

THE popular Burley Steam and Vintage Show returned to raise over £1,000 for the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.

Despite dismal weather conditions on Saturday, steam enthusiasts travelled from across the south of England to take part in the popular rally, which included an evening of live music from Shortstack and Sides.

Exhibits included working saw-benches, classic steam engines, vintage tractors and commercial vehicles, as well as a colourful display of motorbikes, cars and stationary engines.

This year a popular new attraction was miniature steam engine rides for children which helped raised a further £100 for the air ambulance.

Organiser Jon Narey said: “The weekend started off pretty wet on Saturday but we had a brilliant day on Sunday – the weather was much better and everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves.

"I would estimate there were 1,000 people or more through the gates on Sunday.

“This year we had a really impressive range of engines because there have been very few rallies this summer so exhibitors were happy to travel to us to take part. All the exhibitors give their time for free to raise money for charity.”

Other highlights of the event, which took place at Burley Park, included live music, a dog show, craft demonstrations, stalls and food and drink outlets.

Jon added: “I would especially like to thank all the volunteers who gave up their weekend to help ensure that everything went so well. We really could not do it without them.”