It was full steam ahead in Haddenham with the most successful rally in recent years attracting thousands of people to the weekend event.

Cambs Times: Haddenham Steam Rally 2014. Picture: Steve Williams.Haddenham Steam Rally 2014. Picture: Steve Williams. (Image: Archant)

Organisers said around 12,000 people enjoyed displays of 40 engines that were brought from across the country for the family event that is now into its 41st year.

Rally secretary Ruth Young said: “It was one of our record years.

“The weather was lovely and we offered free admission for under 16s which all helped to make the show a big success.”

Around 80 special needs children from Highfield School in Ely enjoyed the event on Friday, the day before the show officially kicked off, to enjoy fun fair rides and refreshments in a more peaceful setting.

Cambs Times: Haddenham Steam Rally 2014. Jack Dyson.Picture: Steve Williams.Haddenham Steam Rally 2014. Jack Dyson.Picture: Steve Williams. (Image: Archant)

Over the weekend there were displays of full size and miniature steam traction engines, 150 vintage tractors, bygone collections, more than 200 vintage cars, commercial vehicles, motorcycles and heavy horses, alongside a selection of trade stands, craft stalls and refreshments.

The annual Haddenham Heavy Horse show celebrated its 27th anniversary on Sunday with competitors from across the UK taking part.

Heavy Horses were at work on the site on both days.

Other working demonstrations for visitors to enjoy include steam ploughing, threshing, baling, stone crushing, wood sawing, corn milling and the popular vintage road making display.

Entertaining were Pauline Reader and her dancers, Dr Busker, funfair rides and Ken Fox’s magnificent Wall of Death along with popular displays including the Fenland Marine Model Group, the Cambridge City branch of the British Sub-Aqua Club, and Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service.

The steam rally raises thousands of pounds every year for local charities.

Already money from this year’s event has been pledged to the Arthur Rank Hospice, EACH and the British Legion with other local charities set to benefit.

Mrs Young said: “We pride ourselves on being a friendly and accessible rally. We have an event which we feel appeals to all.”