We've been busy meeting folk down at the Great Dorset Steam Fair this week. The fair is reputedly the world's largest steam and vintage road vehicle preservation event. Blessed with glorious sunshine, our very own Canadian Pacific has been taking pride of place in the Heavy Haulage ring as the star 'load'. Ropley had done a great job of cleaning her up for her appearance in front of tens of thousands, pity it didn't stay clean for long!
With countless numbers of traction engines performing in the ring since Wednesday, it didn't take long for the grass to call it a day, turning the site into a scene akin to a North African desert!
Today, a road train was formed where 4 traction engines were linked up to the low loader carrying Can Pac, ready for the daunting prospect of the hill climb through "Watford Gap". The climb is very steep and with a 200 Ton load, it was a very impressive sight seeing Can Pac, ever so surely, making her way up and over the hill all under steam power.
Some pictures below from the show.
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Can Pac in the Heavy Haulage ring whilst there was grass. She wasn't to stay clean for long!
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Can Pac pride of place, wowing the crowds.
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Our friendly neighbour with the hourly steam whistle alert. The whistle came from an aircraft carrier and was rather loud!
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The MHR Tent. The liquid refreshment notice was not coming from our tent, but it was somewhat fortunate placement should we require the services of a bar!
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The road train tackling 'Watford Gap' in fine style. Estimated 200 Ton all in load.
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You can appreciate the scale of the show from up on the hill
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Descending into the dust bowl! Can Pac may need a bit of a wipe clean!
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Sign from the road building demonstration area.
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