Steam machines rally through Ironbridge Gorge - in pictures and video

Huge crowds lined the streets in Jackfield, Broseley and Ironbridge to see the engines take part in the annual Ironbridge Steam Rally.

About 32 engines took part in a challenging road run around the Ironbridge Gorge, as part of the Ironbridge Gorge Museums Trust's 50th anniversary rally.

The steam machines included a variety of makes and types ranging from traction engines and steam lorries to road locomotives and ploughing engines with Sentinels, Fodens and Fowlers.

Some of the engines are especially rare, particularly The Chief, a huge early Victorian ploughing engine, as well as the Lord Doverdale, one of the last commercially working steam road engines.

The only surviving Agri Tractor from the six originally built was also due to take part Road Run along with the Gold Medal Tractor, which took part in the Land’s End to John O’Groats race.

Many of the drivers and riders donned Victorian costume as they guided the engines along the rally.

Councillor Nicola Lowery, ward member for the Ironbridge Gorge was one of those who turned out to the event.

She said: "It was a fantastic day and wonderful to see so many people all around the Gorge enjoying this spectacular display of rare steam machines.

"The Ironbridge Steam Road Run attracted engines from all over the UK and included traction engines right through to road locomotives.

"This is a very special occasion as part of the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust's 50th anniversary celebrations and I would like to congratulate and thank all those involved for such such a memorable day."

The engines set off at 10am on Saturday, before trailing around the Gorge, taking in a number of the trust's 10 museums.

And on Sunday, they were on display at Blists Hill Victorian Town, where visitors could get a closer look at the engines.