High winds from Storm Katie almost delayed the opening of the Festival of Steam and Transport today.

But the event at Chatham's Historic Dockyard began at 10am despite several marquees being lost due to the severe weather.

A statement posted on the website said: "A good number of exhibitors are still attending and the fun fair will be in operation as soon as it is safe to do so.

"Entertainment will be provided and the Dockyard’s permanent galleries and attractions will also open for visitors to enjoy.

"The content will be affected, mainly due to a number of marquees being lost due to serve weather.

"Event organisers are doing all that it is possible to ensure we deliver the best, safe show possible in these extreme weather conditions."

Yesterday's heavy downpours didn’t put people off and saw more than 3,000 people going through the gates to see the displays and find out more about a bygone age.

With steam traction engines and road rollers, classic cars, military vehicles and running trains around the site, visitors had plenty to see.

Catching the eye was four-year-old Max Overy as a mini Del Boy from Only Fools and Horses, complete with Trotters Independent Traders’ famous yellow Robin Reliant van.

The organisers had boosted the music and entertainment for this year including the addition of the Dockyard Drive-In.

Movie fans were in their element with musical stage productions of Grease by the Dancing Queen troupe, who will be also performed Abba songs and 60s and 70s disco favourites.

Blues Brothers fans could Shake A Tail Feather when the Blueprint Blues Brothers gave the event the best of soul and blues while Elvis fans got a treat when Scott Elvis performed the most popular songs from the King.

Local musicians performing include Hobo Jones and the Junkyard Dogs, Funke and the Two Tone Baby, Justin and the Argonauts, John Doe Blues and Son of Kirk.

Sideshow entertainment also kept the crowds entertained when Dizzy O’Dare, Alana Jones and her performers put on displays including The Giant Balloon Show, Giraffe Unicycles, stilt walkers and jugglers.

Roaming entertainment was also provided by the Steampunk Morris team and Pretending People.

Historic Dockyard spokesman Gail James, said: “It has been really good this year despite the two big downpours we’ve had.

“More than 3,000 were on site and there were still people queuing to come in, a bit of rain never puts of us British people.”

Visit www.thedockyard.co.uk/steamandtransport for more information.