Stoke up steam for vintage rally

Organisers of the 15th Ribble Valley Vintage Club rally are looking forward to a successful event, despite the fact that it is being held opposite the British National Party festival.

The two events are being held on Saturday and Sunday in fields on opposite sides of the A59 near Sawley, but organisers of the vintage rally said it would not prevent then having a great time.

Spokesman Rod Gregg, said: "We would have preferred it if the BNP had held its festival on a different weekend, but we can't do anything about it.

"The two events being held at the same time means there will be more traffic on the road, which makes it a bit difficult for the general public, but they took place on the same weekend last year and there was no trouble, so we are looking forward to a great event."

The rally will feature a big wheel from Silloth, Cumbria, one of the largest and last travelling big wheels in the country.

There will be more than 1,000 exhibits from across the North West, including wagons, steam engines, tractors, stationary engines, military vehicles, cars and motorbikes.

There will also be a vintage auction and numerous trade stands, including bric-a-brac and auto jumble and a craft tent.

More than 6,000 spectators from throughout the country are expected to attend the rally, which is the biggest held annually in the North West.

Rod Gregg added: "This will be the best turn-out of steam engines in the North West and we're just hoping for good weather."

The BNP festival, dubbed the Red, White and Blue, has been advertised as a family event, featuring a bouncy castle, Punch and Judy show, fireworks display and numerous stalls selling British produce.

British National Party leader Nick Griffin is expected to attend to address thousands of party faithful from across the country.

Police are still holding talks with Ribble Valley Council leaders to decide whether to have a high-profile presence at this year's festival.