AROUND 3,000 people have packed out Poole waterfront today for the annual Mini Steam on the Quay Festival.

This event, in its eighth year, includes demonstrations by the 30 working machines on display.

Organiser Richard Harvey said: "Many of the exhibits are unique feats of engineering, recreated from original Victorian drawings or old photographs representing hours of hard work.

"It is just fantastic to see the raw elements of coal, water and fire create the unique smell of steam that bring a piece mechanical engineering to life.

"We love showing off our handiwork and sharing it with people."

This year donations go towards the Round Table Children's Wishes charity.

Poole Tourism manager Graham Richardson said: "Mini Steam is a brilliant family day out especially for children.

"For many of them it is their first experience of steam engines and it is a great chance to get close up, have a ride and find out more about these magnificent machines."