One of the region's most popular steam engine extravaganzas is gearing up to celebrate its 40th anniversary.Vehicles from the first ever Weeting Steam Engine Rally and Country Show are set to be on display at Fengate Farm, near Brandon, for the three-day event that starts on Friday.

One of the region's most popular steam engine extravaganzas is gearing up to celebrate its 40th anniversary.

Vehicles from the first ever Weeting Steam Engine Rally and Country Show are set to be on display at Fengate Farm, near Brandon, for the three-day event that starts on Friday.

The rally, which was formed by farmer Richard Parrott in 1968 to help raise funds for a new village hall, has grown into a major agricultural show attracting about 20,000 people a year.

Organisers are hoping for some better weather for the 40th birthday celebrations after the first day of last year's event had to be cancelled because of heavy rain.

Sallyann Helms, rally coordinator, said the farm was set to welcome increased entries, including almost 70 steam engines, 150 tractors and 90 trade stall as a result of the anniversary. She added that the layout of the 170 acre showground had changed considerably this year.

Grand ring attractions will include parades of some of the engines from the first Weeting Rally, a harvesting through the ages display, sheepdog demonstrations and performances from the Snakewood dog Agility Team. There will also be a community tent, craft marquee, fairground rides, bouncy castles, mini quad bikes, laser combat, helicopter flights and ploughing and cultivating demonstrations.

There will also be an auction of farm machinery, bygones and memorabilia on Saturday at 11am.

The Weeting Steam Engine Rally and Country Show will open from 10am to 11pm on Friday and Saturday and 10am to 5pm Sunday.

Tickets are £6 for adults and £5 for OAPs on the Friday and £8 and £7 on the Saturday and Sunday. Under 14s get in for free.

For more information, visit www.weetingrally.co.uk.