Steam has always been the dream of Bill Giles, the brains behind what is expected to be the largest gathering of steam-driven engines ever held in Kent.

The first time he went on a traction engine was in the womb, he says, and he’s loved all things steam ever since.

Little wonder then that it is Bill behind the Weald of Kent Steam Rally on Saturday, August 2 and Sunday, August 3 at Little Engeham Farm in Woodchurch, near Ashford, from 10am until 6pm.

“It will be the first event of its kind,” said Bill. “There will be engines from all over England, some 30 of them. The challenge to bring them all together has been complex, but their owners have been really fantastic with the way they’ve responded.”

Also chugging in will be the steam roller that has just set a world record for the first of its kind to travel 800 miles from John O’Groats to Lands End.

“That was an incredible feat taking two weeks and now it’s in the Guinness Book of Records, with money raised going to Delmelza Hospice Care For Children,” says Bill.

The 48-year-old is a commercial pilot operating out of Lydd and there will also be airborne attractions to reflect his love of aviation during the weekend – helicopter rides and air displays. Additionally there will be historic commercial and military vehicles, clay shooting, falconry and an old time funfair.

Tickets are £8 adults and £1 for children. Free parking on the site. Visit www.wealdofkentsteamrally.co.uk