THOUSANDS of people from all over the country descended on a Suffolk village to watch agricultural machinery of yesteryear being brought to life over the weekend.

THOUSANDS of people from all over the country descended on a Suffolk village to watch agricultural machinery of yesteryear being brought to life over the weekend.

The Annual Power of the Past Country Fair at Wantisden Valley, near Butley, is one of East Anglia's biggest and most spectacular events attracting enthusiasts from abroad.

All weekend working steam engines, Suffolk punch horses and vehicles such as trialing motorcycles and vintage tractors provided attractions for the whole family to enjoy.

Organiser Kate Leith, said: "We have had a good weekend. We have had visitors from Scotland, people from abroad, such as Holland, and all over the country.

"The fair is now in its sixth year and beginning to get quite a good name for itself in Europe. It seems to keep growing every year and has something for everyone."

Also at the fair were craft stalls, a machinery sale, food hall, children's fun fair and a bar.

Owners of antique farming tools came from across the country to show off their collections, while other displays included earth moving equipment, old fire engines and 50 military vehicles.

"The idea is all based on an agricultural theme," said Kate. "We have got some of the ladies dressed as women from the land army operating machinery to give a world war two impression."

Charities benefiting from the weekend included Cancer Campaign in Suffolk, St Elizabeth Hospice and Suffolk Accident Rescue Service.