EVESHAM town councillors are so thrilled by the annual steam rally spectacle wending its way around the town each year that at a council meeting on Monday (8) members decided to top up their contribution to its costs from £450 to £500.

Coun Andy Dyke said: "It was a fantastic show last year. Coun Steve Selby said: "It is wonderful to see these steam motors going through."

The ever-popular Rally will take place at Ashdown Farm, Badsey Road, Evesham from Friday, August 9 to Sunday, August 11, and the theme of this year's rally will be "Transport in the Vale".

An appeal has gone out from organisers for pictures for a display and for Massey Ferguson tractors.

"If anyone has photographs of transport in the Vale over the past years we would love to hear from them as we would like to make a photo display," said Pete Ross, who can be contacted on 01386 443924.

"Also," he said, "after the shock announcement of the closure of Massey Ferguson, we would like to display as many examples of their tractors as possible, from the oldest right up to date. If anyone has a tractor they would like to exhibit, they can contact G. Troth on 01527 877168."

Highlights of the weekend include a vintage auction on Friday, August 9, and on the Saturday a vintage procession through the town will be led by the mayor, Councillor Diana Raphael, on a steam engine. Drivers wishing to take part in the vintage and classic road run are asked to contact Nigel New on 01386 41289, Arena events will be staged on both Saturday and Sunday

"This year we have a new enlarged site, by courtesy of Mr and Mrs Bob James, and therefore trade and exhibitor entries can still be accepted," Mr Ross said.

Further information is available from Bob James on 01386 41585, Peter Ross on 01386 443924, Nigel New 01386 41289.