Thousands of visitors are expected to flock to Milton Abbas for its biennial street fair.

The event this Saturday aims to transport visitors back to the 18th century using costumes, rural crafts, live entertainment and demonstrations.

The Dorset Echo-backed street fair is a celebration of the village’s heritage and will be opened by the renowned journalist Kate Adie, who will give a speech before cutting the ribbon to start the event.

Brian Isherwood, the chairman of the Milton Abbas Street Fair, said the fair will be like ‘stepping back in time.’

He said: “The idea is to turn the street back to how it was in 18th century when it was established.

“It is a difficult aim but I believe we are getting close to achieving it, more people are dressing in relevant costumes at each fair. 

“It is like stepping back in time. The fair is about remembering the village’s traditions and roots, we have a lot of local pride in the village. It gives enjoyment to around seven thousand people and generates quite a bit of money for local charities.

“I have been involved since 2004 and it has got a lot bigger and better since then.

“I am excited, I think it is possibly going to be the best year we have ever had.”

Money raised from the street fair will be donated to the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and other local charities.

Tracy Bartram, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Communications Manager has welcomed the donation. 

She said: “We are delighted to be one of the chosen charities to benefit from this weekend’s Milton Abbas Street Fair. Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance is a registered charity and we receive no direct funding from the Government or the National Lottery.

“We hope the event is a huge success and thank everyone involved for their kind support.”

The fair will take place at Milton Abbas village at 11pm on Saturday, July 29. Adult tickets cost £6 and family tickets cost £15. 

For more information visit www.miltonabbasstreetfair.co.uk