IT’S FULL steam ahead for this year’s Chickerell Steam and Vintage Show with festivities expected to be bigger and better than ever before.

The show will be held over the weekend on July 5 and 6 at Moor Farm, Knights in the Bottom, Chickerell, courtesy of the Vine and Hollins families.

The show will feature a number of sections, including classic cars, military vehicles, tractors and steam engines.

The site has two new gateways to allow easier access for exhibitors and visitors, with free parking also available.

As well as classic and vintage vehicle displays, the show will include The Amberlights majorettes, trade stands, fast food stalls, children’s fun fair rides, and a beer tent.

There will also be performances from the Portsmouth Wild West Association in their own ‘Wild West town’.

New events this year include a live graffiti art demonstration, chainsaw wood carving, a lawn mower racing demonstration, and a special performance from The Mean Machine tractor pulling team.

The show will also feature a selection of live music. At lunchtime on Saturday and Sunday The Weymouth Ukuleleans will be playing in the beer tent.

Bands Frantic Atlantic, Sounds Easy Roadshow and Jolly Boys Outing will perform on Saturday evening.

Andy Spracklen, show co-ordinator, said the show would have its largest steam section for quite some time.

Describing the show he said: “It started off as a small fundraising event at All Saints Church on Portland.

“It’s almost like an old fashioned village show but obviously with a vehicle element in it.

“The people of Chickerell have welcomed us with open arms and have been very supportive.

“There’s something for everybody really, from old to young.”

Daily entrance prices for Saturday and Sunday are set at £6 for adults, £3 for children aged between 5 and 16, and children under 5 go free.

A new fee has been introduced for those who only wish to attend events in the evening.

Those arriving after 6pm on Saturday are asked to pay £2. Children under 16 receive free entry when accompanied by an adult.

Public camping is also available this year at £5 per pitch. Contact Sue Hollins on 01305 759322.