AS a testament to the mechanical power of yesteryear, a mighty traction engine is hard to beat.
The huge wheels, the precision engineering, this hiss of escaping steam and the spectacular paintwork create a magnificent image.
Visitors to this year's Pickering Traction Engine Rally, in North Yorkshire, will be seeing more of them than ever before.
Thousands are expected to attend the rally, which started yesterday and continues until Sunday.
More than 1,000 exhibitors are taking part and hundreds of machines, of all shapes and sizes, are on show.
The gates open each day at 9am and the show continues late tomorrow for a fireworks display at dusk.
Entry is £6 for adults, £5 for concessions and £3 for children under 16.
Under-fives are admitted free and family tickets for two adults and three children cost £15.
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