THE age of steam returns to Much Marcle this weekend for the Marcle Steam Rally 2002.

The event, organised by the Herefordshire Traction Engine and Vintage Club, returns to Rye Meadow tomorrow (Saturday) and Sunday after the foot and mouth crisis forced its cancellation last year.

Club spokesman Clive Jeffries said that this year's show promised to be the best yet.

"Marcle has always been noted for its impressive and varied steam turnout and this year is no exception," he said.

"Two particularly interesting machines include Emma, the roadroller once based at Much Marcle maintaining local roads. This is the property of Herefordshire Council and is in the care of The Herefordshire Traction Engine Club.

"The second is Rosie, belonging to Westons. This formed part of Westons' prize-winning display at the recent Hampton Court Flower Show. Rosie has undergone a complete restoration and is a credit to the restoration team."

The steam and vintage ploughing has a new home, which Mr Jeffries said would offer visitors a great view of how our predecessors worked the land.

The layout of the show has been altered, with a new bridge offering easier pedestrian access from the car parks.

Other attractions include a vintage auction tomorrow (Saturday) and vintage cars, motorcycles and tractors, as well as a funfair, models and crafts, a brass band, shire horses and can-can dancers.

Admission is £4, with £2 concessions, from 10am to 6pm both days. For information call 01531 660464.