Hundreds visited Lydiard Park as it was taken over by all manner of vintage, classic, and - most importantly - steam-powered vehicles.

The cars, caravans, tractors, trains, tanks, bikes and engines converged at the West Swindon park for the Wiltshire Steam and Vintage Rally last weekend. 

This was the first time the event had been held in Swindon after moving from its usual home in Rainscombe Park, Pewsey, after outgrowing the site. 

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald:

Visiting families were able to get up close to and even ride working steam engines, climb inside military vehicles and see rows of rows of classic and vintage cars in action through a mixture of exhibits and arena events. 

There was even a special horse and carriage ride from heavy horses and a flyover from a Second World War Battle Of Britain Memorial Flight Supermarine Spitfire on both days.

Wiltshire Agricultural Preservation Group chairman Nick Wood, who has been involved with the group for over a decade was thrilled with how well things had gone. 

"It's been a huge success," he said. "An event like this takes months and months of planning, I love doing it, otherwise, I wouldn't, but it can be very stressful. So It's been great to see people coming and having a good time."

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald:

"These engines are part of our history and they've very expensive to run, so it's good that owners have the opportunity to show them off and people get the chance to see them."

Group president Wayne Sherman thanked all of the people who helped put on the show this year, with it being the biggest one ever.

"Thanks to all the stewards and helpers as without your help we would not be able to stage the rally.

"I would like to thank all the public for attending as without your attendance we would not be able to put on the show. I hope you enjoyed and please tell others and we hope to see you all again next year." 

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald:

Mr Wood confirmed that the WAPG would be bringing the Wiltshire Steam and Vintage Rally back to Lydiard Park next year and the year after, and hoped to continue after that. 

"We have a lot of room here so we hope to have even more things to do and see next year," he said.