THOUSANDS of visitors are expected at the Castle Combe Steam Rally as it celebrates its 30th anniversary next month.

The two-day event will take place over the weekend of May 30 and will this year raise money for Bristol based charity Jessie May, which provides nursing care for terminally ill children at home.

The rally will feature all the old favourites, like displays of vintage steam engines, tractors, cars, military vehicles and motorcycles, as well as an exciting stunt show by BMX and mountain bike legend Jez Avery.

There will be craft stalls, jumble sales, trade stands, fairground rides and refreshments.

Farmer Dennis Marsh, who organises the event, said: “We are so excited to be celebrating the 30th anniversary of the steam rally this year and we hope to put on a show to reflect the special occasion.

“This year we’re delighted to be supporting Jessie May, a wonderful local charity which does amazing work caring for children with terminal illnesses and their families, allowing them to stay at home. In previous years we have raised thousands for our nominated charities so we hope to be able to do the same for Jessie May.”

It costs about £820,000 a year for them to provide care to families, whose children are not expected to live beyond the age of 19.

Julian Withers, from Jessie May, said: “It is brilliant that organisers of the Castle Combe Steam Rally have chosen to support us this year. Events like this are vital in helping to fund our work in Bristol, Bath, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire. We are also hoping to begin work in Wiltshire very soon, so this funding will go even further in helping families in need across the region.

“It sounds like it’s going to be a really fun event, so I hope many people join us over the weekend. Fingers crossed the weather is kind.”

There is free car parking on site for the steam rally, which runs on May 30 and 31 from 10am to 5pm. Tickets, costing £6 for adults, £5 for OAPs and free for children under 14, can be bought on the day.