BUMPER crowds are expected to flock to The Tank Museum this weekend to see the history of armoured warfare rumble to life for the annual Tankfest.

More than 13,000 visitors from around the globe are anticipated for the renowned event on Saturday and Sunday as the Bovington-based charity lays on a spectacular show of armoured military vehicles.

Arena displays throughout will feature vehicles from the museum's impressive historical collection, alongside a contingent from outside collectors.

The Grand Finale Battle, a salute to the 70th anniversary of Operation Market Garden, will round things off with a comprehensive display of vehicles, parachutists and an appearance by a World War Two P-51 Mustang fighter plane.

Previous years have seen visitors from as far afield as Australia and the USA make the trip to attend, added museum spokesman Andrew Sawyer.

He said: “Tankfest is without question the world's premier display of historic moving armour; the range and quantity of armour on display here simply can't be matched.”

Expect to see greats like the Valentine DD, Tiger 131, Comet and Panzer III roaring round the track, and The British Army will also play a big part, putting on a display with their combat vehicles, including Challenger 2 and Titan.

Stalls selling everything from crepes to military memorabilia, as well as activities like driving Mini Tanks, a climbing wall and face painting are part of the fun.

See www.tankmuseum.org for more details.