A FAMOUS Dorset show’s landmark anniversary is set to host the largest gathering of steam rollers ever recorded as well as the biggest crowd in its history.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Great Dorset Steam Fair, widely recognised as the biggest heritage and cultural show in the world.

Organisers are pulling out all the stops to make this year’s event the biggest and best.

The highlight is set to be the gathering of 500 engines.

This can only be achieved with the support of owners, and they are asked to register their machines before the deadline of January 31.

Show director Martin Oliver said: “We have been overwhelmed with interest from all around the world and have had to set a cut off date so early because of the hundreds of applications we have received.

“This will be the largest gathering of steam engines ever recorded and along with the 100th anniversary of the end of the Great War and a special commemorative feature to co-celebrate that event we anticipate visitor numbers in excess of 250,000.”

The show usually attracts crowds of around 200,000.

This year’s show will be held at the Tarrant Hinton showground from Thursday, August 23 to Monday, August 27.

Showcasing Britain’s national industrial, agricultural and leisure history, the event offers a “unique blend of nostalgia and entertainment”.

The showground covers more than 600 acres – one of Europe’s largest outdoor event locations.

Attractions include showmen’s engines, vintage and classic cars, lorries, tractors, bikes, military vehicles, steam-driven funfairs, heavy horses, country crafts, hundreds of trade stands, food halls, bars and live music.

The 1914-18 trenches which opened for the 2014 show to mark the centenary of the First World War can also be seen.

Mr Oliver added: “My late father Mike who founded the fair in 1968 would be amazed at the progress made over the eight years since his passing.

“He will also be remembered with a very limited edition re-launch of the book on his life with a few added pages and a special 50 year commemorative golden cover.”

If you would like your engine to be considered send full details plus a recent photograph to: Great Dorset Steam Fair 500 @50 Special Display, Show Office, Dairy House Farm, Child Okeford, Blandford, Dorset, DT11 8HT. Or email: 500@gdsf.co.uk.

Applications must be received by January 31. Owners must state whether they have their own transport.