Outdoor events here in the United Kingdom over the last two years have been sadly lacking with the Covid pandemic. There have been very few engine rallies to attend though things are easing now, thank goodness. As I write this story, the famous Great Dorset Steam Fair 180kms south-west of London has an all-time record of keen enthusiasts attending the 2022 event. 

In September 2022, the reality of holding this grand event, covering 600 acres (242.8 hectares), was made evident with the costs incurred in the present economic times. The decision has been made that the Fair will sadly not be held again until August 2024. 

Therefore, it was a grand thing when the volunteers at my local smock windm