The county’s largest vintage fair is leaving its Canterbury roots and setting up home in Faversham.

Thousands of revellers were left disappointed last year after the Merton Vintage Show was called off because of downpours swamping the Merton Farm site.

But after a year off, organisers Sharon and Jamie Butterfield say it is back and bigger than ever at its new home at Faversham Showground.

Sharon said: “We had to leave Merton Farm because after a wet year, the farmers now want their livestock to graze on the land.

"We decided that we really needed a new venue and we heard about the former Farming World site not being used.

"We heard about bootfairs and other events taking place there so it seemed perfect for us.

“We had a look at other arenas but we felt this was big enough and was exactly what we needed. We have always started the vintage show season off with a bang and despite having a year off, this year will be no different – apart from the venue.”

As many as 500 exhibitors will travel to the grounds during the May bank holiday weekend (May 2 to 4) with vintage tractors, classic cars, military vehicles and steam engines.

There will also be live music, ferret racing, terrier racing, a wrestling ring, facepainting, Punch and Judy, an auction and a beer tent throughout the weekend.

The vintage fair started off at Horton Farm in Chartham Hatch 15 years ago and moved to Merton Farm in 2007.

Sharon said: “We want this site to be its third and final home – we are here to stay.

“We have a great following and have become a well-established event, so we are hoping this year’s will be as busy as ever.

“For me and Jamie, this is a hobby which has grown and grown over the years with the help of family and friends, so we are already excited for this year’s event. We are just praying for good weather.”

Sharon and Jamie own 18 heritage tractors.

Faversham Showground is just off the Thanet Way towards Faversham, just before the Brenley Corner roundabout.

Entry is £6 per person or £2.50 for children. The site will open every day at 9.30am.

For more information visit their website www.mertonvintageshow.co.uk.