MAJESTIC heavy horses and tractors of yesteryear were the stars of the Prickwillow Ploughing Festival over the weekend.

Almost 2,000 people descended on to Green Farm in the sunshine to watch the ploughing, and enjoy a variety of other attractions, from classic cars and lorries to crafts stalls, musical entertainment and stationary engines.

The adjoining Prickwillow Drainage Engine Museum was also open to visitors, who were thrilled to see the various engines being run by enthusiasts.

The historic City of Ely Fire appliance was in steam, and reunited with the restored Bedford lorry which was used to pull the appliance from the mid 1930s to the end of the Second World War.

Paul Dunham, chairman of the museum trustees, said: “This was the first time the two vehicles had been together for 60 years. The ploughing festival was great success, there was a great atmosphere, a real buzz.”

Secretary of the organising committee, Pauline Dunham added: “We were absolutely delighted with the weekend, we have had some lovely comments from visitors. We have raised around �5,000, to be divided between the Prickwillow Drainage Engine Museum and Oesophagus Cancer Research.”

The festival even boasted its own specially brewed beer, with Bartrams Brewery selling the real ale. Archery, a road train and face painting were also very popular, along with a children’s nature trail organised by the RSPB.

Rock band Akimbo entertained the crowd on Saturday, and the folk band Eel Pie were on stage on Sunday.