Full steam ahead for fund-raiser

Lytham Hall volunteer Sturat Lloyd with one of the steam engines expected at the venue's first Steam Fair, organised by the Rotary Club of Lytham

That’s the call from the Rotary Club of Lytham, which is staging the Hall’s first steam rally, with money raised going towards the ongoing renovation of the Grade I-listed Georgian building.

The event on the weekend of the September 16 and 17 is expected to draw thousands of visitors to see more than 100 steam engines of all shapes and sizes, along with a host of other attractions.

Along with vintage tractors and vehicles, the weekend will feature donkey rides, a fun fair and face painting, a beer bus and afternoon teas in the Hall.

Lytham Hall volunteer Stuart Lloyd with one of the steam engines expected at the venue's first Steam Fair, organised by the Rotary Club of Lytham

A trade fair with a wide range of market stalls will also feature, while refreshments will be be served in a large marquee and, as has proved successful at other major Hall events, including Lytham Club Day and last month’s Ribble Preservation Trust Vintage Bus Day, free transport to the Hall will be provided on classic buses from Ballam Road.

Bill Lloyd, one of the Rotary organisers, said “This is the largest event the club has committed to and I think the largest Lytham Hall has held.”

Marianne Blaauboer, the Hall’s activity plan officer, said: “This unique event has been a year in the making, with the Lytham Rotary volunteers putting their heart and soul into its set-up. Working with them and our own volunteers, this will be one of our biggest events.”