Special 30th anniversary steam rally to support local charity Jessie May

The annual Castle Combe Steam Rally is returning for 2015 and is celebrating its 30th anniversary in style.

This year the Steam Rally will feature all the old favourites including displays of vintage steam engines, tractors, cars, military vehicles and motorcycles as well as an exciting stunt show by BMX and Mountain bike legend Jez Avery.

The two-day event will take place over the weekend of 30-31 May and this year will raise money for local charity Jessie May, which provides cares for terminally ill children at home.

Local farmer Dennis Marsh who organises the Rally said: “We are so excited to be celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Steam Rally this year and we hope to put on a show to reflect the special occasion!

“Not only will we have many popular displays and exhibits there will also be craft stalls, jumble sales, trade stands, fairground rides and refreshments to entertain the whole family. There is also free car parking on site.

“This year we’re delighted to be supporting Jessie May, a wonderful local charity which does amazing work caring for children with terminal illnesses and their families, allowing them to stay at home. In previous years we have raised thousands for our nominated charities so we hope to be able to do the same for Jessie May.”

The event which takes place at the Castle Combe Race Circuit, usually attracts thousands of visitors from across the South West from steam and vintage vehicle enthusiasts to families looking for a different day out.

Julian Withers, from Jessie May, said: “It is brilliant that organisers of the Castle Combe Steam Rally have chosen to support us this year. Events like this are vital in helping to fund our work in Bristol, Bath, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire. We are also hoping to begin work in Wiltshire very soon, so this funding will go even further in helping families in need across the region.

“It sounds like it’s going to be a really fun event, so I hope many people join us over the weekend and fingers crossed the weather is kind!”

It costs around £820,000 for Jessie May to provide care to families who need it yearly and as the charity is almost entirely dependent on public support, fundraisers like this are essential.

The Steam Rally is open from 10am-5pm on 30 and 31 May. Tickets can be purchased on the day with adult tickets costing £6, OAPs £5 and children under 14 going free.

For more information about the event visit www.castlecombesteamrally.co.uk and for more information about the work of Jessie May visit www.jessiemay.org.uk