Steam festival showpiece proves to be a roaring success

Letting off steam in Saddleworth

The delighted organisers of the Saddleworth Steam Festival held at the weekend have described it an 'overwhelming' success.

Saddleworth Round Table thanked the hundreds of people who turned out to support the colourful spectacular, and the event sponsors.

Good weather helped towards the event's success which saw six full size traction engines, two miniature engines, and a steam powered Land Rover - the only one in the world - entertain the enthusiastic audience.

There were also three classic cars including the Rolls Royce, owned by Andrew Hodgkiss of Grotton.

Honorary Freeman of Oldham, Frank Rothwell, pictured (above) with his unique Land Rover, spent most of the weekend at the event showcasing his two vehicles.

The Mayor of Oldham, who visited, was soaked with water by an out of control hose pipe as the engines were being filled - which he took in good humour.

Hundreds of people of all ages enjoyed the free weekend with the event managed by volunteers from Saddleworth Round Table and the Steam Team themselves - a collection of engines and enthusiasts from the Derbyshire area.

Sponsors and supporters of the event included: LTS Transport, Recycling PVC Ltd, Hughes Demolition Ltd, MechPlant, Manchester Cabins, Oldham Council, The Church Inn, Uppermill and The Old Bell Inn, Delph.

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