VEHICLES from a bygone era attracted a crowd of thousands to Castle Combe race circuit at the weekend.

The organisers of the two-day Castle Combe Steam and Vintage Rally, now in its 18th year, said they were shocked by the huge turnout.

Rally committee vice-chairman Keith Day said: "We had so much interest in our show that we had to close entries three weeks ago."

The rally attracts visitors from as far afield as Yorkshire and Manchester and boasts attractions from vintage machinery and cars to model planes and craft s.

It is attended by a huge mix of people, not just steam enthusiasts and offers a wide range of entertainment for the whole family.

Rally chairman Dennis Marsh said: "This event just grows and grows in popularity.

"We had to close the entries as there was not a space left anywhere on the site.

"This year we had entries from as far north as Newcastle and as far south as Cornwall which shows its appeal."

The biggest draw at the event, as always, were the old steam engines, which formed the largest display of steam since the show started.

The engines, painstakingly restored to showroom condition by their owners, were paraded around the show ring on both days to the cheers of the crowd.

There was interest from enthusiasts too for the beautifully restored vintage tractors and the impressive line-up of vintage cars.

And, in complete contrast to the engines of yesteryear, was the faster mode of transport and beneficiary of all funds raised by the event, the Wiltshire air ambulance.

Thousands of pounds have already been raised for the air ambulance appeal through the steam rally.

All the money collected goes towards helping to meet the £3,000-a-week cost of keeping the ambulance flying.

Paramedic David Fleming said: "We were amazed at the interest shown in the air ambulance during the rally.

"People just flocked around to take a close look at it."

Mr Marsh said: "The air ambulance is a marvellous cause.

"We are happy to be able to help and I know they really appreciate it."