What is truly inspiring about Abergavenny Steam Rally is the mix of tradition, nostalgia and bang up to the minute action adventure and crazy stunts writes Douglas Mcarthur.

In the arena, Team Kinetix are some of the most experienced and capable Parkour practitioners, freerunners and acrobats in the world.

At the Steam Rally this year Team Kinetix will demonstrate some of the more difficult skills and an action-packed performance of outstanding physical ability.

They call it Parkour and it is the ability to move freely over and through any terrain using only the abilities of the body, principally through running, jumping, climbing and quadrupedal movement. Difficult to explain - you gotta see it!

Savage Skills are the UK’s leading freestyle mountain bike stunt team providing interactive, jaw dropping shows suitable for audiences of all ages throughout the United Kingdom and Europe.

With a selection of the world’s leading stunt riders, and uniquely designed display rig they provide a professional, flexible and unique spectacle.

With eight world and over 25 British championship titles you’re sure to see some of the most impressive tricks, jumps and stunts possible, many of which you would not think possible on a bicycle – prepare to be amazed!

Back by popular demand will the magnificent and stately British Ridden Heavy Horse coming from Cardigan.

John Fletcher, will ride the century-old dray in the Sunday Steam Run, and in a busy two days will feature in a plait-making demonstration as well as performing in the arena.

Yet another new attraction in the arena will be a demonstration by Longtown Mountain Rescue, showing their dedication to keeping our local mountains safe for everyone.

Besides a superb gathering of Steam Engines and Organs, there will also be a display of Vintage, Veteran and Classic Cars, Caravans, Motorcycles, Tractors, Military and Commercial Vehicles and Static Engines.

There will be a Model Tent, and a range of Handicrafts and Country Pursuits also on display.

Each day there is a full programme of arena events to delight the whole family. Both days include vehicle parades, bands and the ever-popular Tug of War between hundreds of children and a mighty traction engine.

The proceeds of the Rally are handed over to the Rotary Club of Abergavenny, sole shareholders of the Abergavenny Steam Rally Co Ltd for them to donate to local worthy causes in the coming year.

“This is a real community venture and all thanks to the hard work of a dedicated bunch of locals organisations which helped us marshall the event and make it such a great success,” said David Hassall, chairman of the Steam Rally committee.

“It is a tribute to those people who willingly give up their time for nothing to help make this event what it has grown into, and also why we are able to help so many good causes in the town. Our dedication is that every penny given to the Steam Rally is used for the benefit of the town. “

The weather is always crucial to the show and can make a difference of thousands of pounds. Last year, with the Sunday first day enjoying sunny skies, the rally cleared over £20,000, which will all be used for local worthy causes.

“This is a great boost,” said David. “The Steam Rally is Rotary’s major fundraiser and with the help of a lot of people we have kept alive a great show for the town. Because everyone works for free the charities see a great benefit.

“As Rotary we are committed to supporting the youth of the town and we do like to see a sizeable proportion of the money go to the various youth organisations.

“As a result of our interest in them, the youngsters reciprocate by volunteering to help us on the two days of the show. It’s a great community spirit, even the paying customers are more pleased to pay the entrance fee when they know that all the money raised will stay in the town to help good causes.“

“This year we have a great show, with outstanding arena events and a great collection of steamers, veteran and vintage machines. There is vast array of things to look at, play on and eat. We have produced a show which is an absolute delight for the whole family. Without any contradiction we can say there is something for everybody and fascinating entertainment all day.”

Each day sees a full programme of arena events to delight the whole family.

Both days include vehicle parades, bands and the ever-popular Tug of War between hundreds of children and a mighty traction engine.

David Tod runs the cars section, an eclectic mix of over 200 veteran and vintage cars reflecting the various chapters of motor car evolution.

A 1913 Crossley is one of the oldest, with a De Lorean, a pink Cadillac, and every British marque of the fifties and sixties in pristine condition.

According to David,“This is a great attraction for the show, and owners are pleased to bring their cars from hundreds of miles away.

“We have lots of old friends who are here year on year, and newcomers who we want to see again. It is without doubt a fantastic addition to the show”.