In pictures: The Great Dorset Steam Fair
- Published
The Great Dorset Steam Fair is celebrating its 45th anniversary. Covering 600 acres of countryside near Blandford, it is one of Europe's largest outdoor events.
The show's humble beginnings were in 1968, when 2,000 people flocked to a field in Shaftesbury, Dorset, to see an array of vintage steam engines. It now attracts 200,000 annually.
Steam road locomotives remain the major attraction, but additional spectacle has been added with other vintage vehicles, live music, and air shows.
Managing director Martin Oliver said: "I don't think anyone could have predicted the huge scale the fair has become, especially as it grew in popularity gradually year on year."
The event was founded by Mr Oliver's father, Michael, who died in 2009. Mr Oliver said: "Dad always knew it would be successful."
The 1968 show also had a touch of glamour. Then, as now, the event provided a blend of nostalgia and entertainment.
Among the entertainment at the first ever steam fair was a boxing booth where audience members could throw coins at the aspiring pugilists.
These days roaring crowds watch more modern entertainment, as monster trucks take part in extravagant stunt displays.
The Great Dorset Steam Fair takes place until 1 September near the village of Tarrant Hinton.