A HUGE heritage fair renowned throughout the world is steaming in for its 49th year.

In just over a month's time, more than 200,000 visitors will flock to the 600-acre Tarrant Hinton showground for the Great Dorset Steam Fair.

Preparations are well underway for the show, billed as 'the world’s largest heritage and cultural event' which showcases Britain’s national industrial, agricultural and leisure history.

According to a 2005 study, the event is worth approximately £21.3 million to the economy of Dorset and the wider region, and creates £7 million of additional tourism consumer expenditure for the county.

Visitors from all over the UK and some from as far as New Zealand will make their way to Dorset to soak up the festival atmosphere.

This year's fair is from Thursday, August 24 to Bank Holiday Monday, August 28.

Dates of the show were changed last year to avoid clashing with the start of the new school year, and this continues in 2017.

Dorset Echo:

All pictures, taken at the 2015 fair, by RICHARD CREASE

Managing Director Martin Oliver, son of event founder Michael Oliver, said: “We are all looking forward to another brilliant show.

"There are lots of exciting exhibits and attractions this year with something for everyone to enjoy.

“I am always surprised when I hear local people say they have never visited this world-class breathtaking event that’s right on their doorstep, especially when it plays such a huge part in the Dorset economy and in celebrating our history and heritage.

"I would like to invite as many local people as possible to come and see what we’re all about. There is no other event like this anywhere in the world and you won’t regret it.”

The popular music festival area will be back with more than 100 acts performing on six stages over five days. On the Friday evening at the Outdoor Concert Stage, The Wurzels will debut their new song 'Old Rosie'. inspired by the Aveling & Porter steam roller which will be exhibited at the event. Some of the UK’s best tribute acts will also be performing.

Until 2018, the fair is commemorating the centenary anniversary of the First World War with a popular tribute display (pictured below).

The display features an authentic replica Western Front trench system supported by original steam and historic vehicles from the 1914-1918 conflict, associated equipment, living history group soldiers and authentic horse displays.

Dorset Echo:

Stunt displays will include demonstrations from motorcycle display team The White Helmets, racing and car crushing from Big Pete Monster Truck Display Team and quad bike stuntman The Kangaroo Kid.

To order advance tickets, visit gdsf.co.uk