A VILLAGE steam fair which has become one of the biggest events of its kind in the north attracting more than 10,000 visitors is holding it’s 34th gathering this weekend.

More than 1,000 exhibitors are descending on the tiny village of Hunton, near Bedale on September 7 and 8 for the event. The displays will cover more than 120 years of agricultural and motoring heritage with over 30 steam engines, 60 miniature steam engines and an original set of steam gallopers. Over 200 classic cars, 200 tractors, commercial vehicles, motorbikes and stationary engines will be competing for attention on the 70 acre site.

The fair is run by a group of volunteers who over the years have raised money for charity donating thousands of pounds to local good causes including the Yorkshire Air Ambulance, McMillan Nurses, Parkinsons UK, Bedale Explorer Scouts and the Wensleydale Railway.

The Northern Echo:

Last year's event

One of the organisers Ben Jobling said: "The show is now in its 34th year and it has grown dramatically since we started. This year is another bumper year with a huge range of steam engines as well as other attractions including a large craft and food market and local trade stalls, vintage working demonstrations and a bike display team.

"We’ve got an action packed main arena and a wide range of displays from a dog agility team to North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue, a classic auto test, Burmese Mountain Dogs and much more. On Sunday we also have the added attraction of a vintage ploughing match with two heavy horse pairs competing in the match.

"Over the weekend the site comes alive with the smell of steam, sounds of vintage working engines and fair organs playing throughout the site to create an atmosphere of nostalgia and bygone days. We really aim to provide something for all the family."