MOTORING enthusiasts did their best to have their vintage vehicles gleaming despite some often gloomy weather on Silloth Green.

There was a strong turnout for the annual two-day vintage rally over the weekend, which has now been running for almost 20 years.

The display of steam engines, vintage cars, motorbikes, tractors, commercial and military vehicles and stationary engines continues to grow each year.

Among the attractions visitors were able to enjoy were a Aveling and Porter Steamroller from 1924, which had been lovingly restored over the last three years with Silloth its the first official outing, attracting some keen attention for admirers.

The free event is credited with providing a welcome boost to the area with traders able to benefit from the busy two-day show - even this year when wet conditions left Saturday’s showing slightly dampened before fans enjoyed sunshine on Sunday.

Wendy Jamieson, one of the rally’s organisers, said: “Saturday was a washout the weather was horrendous, but people were still turning up and we were surprised how many people did come

“Sunday was a far better day.

And that better weather may have led to an increase in the numbers of people turning out for the event, one of a series held on the Green throughout the summer to help attract even greater numbers to the coastal town.

Wendy added: “Judging by the number of vehicles parked up, it seems as though we had a lot more than normal. There were an awful lot of people wondering round. It was a really good turn out.”

After finding a winner who was new to the rally, Ms Jamieson said: “The highlights for me were the positive comments we got from the exhibitors and the people who can to have a look round.

“It makes it all worthwhile.”

Spectators were also able to enjoy stalls, autojumble, the fairground and donkey rides and a children’s football tournament.