The 51st National Steam Rally will kick off today in Stradbally, Co.Laois.
The event, which opened this morning at 10.00am will be officially opened this afternoon with speeches by Mr. Ken Graham, President of the Irish Steam Preservation Society; Mr. Dick Dunne, Chairman of the National Steam Rally Committee and Ms. Annabelle Cosby.
The National Steam Rally, which takes place in Stradbally, began in 1965 and is the oldest steam demonstration in Ireland.
Taking place in Cosby Estate, Stradbally, Co.Laois; there will be over 40 working steam engines at the rally, as well as pre-1930s tractors and numerous other vintage exhibitions and trade stands. There will also be a mobile pet farm on site, steam train rides through the woods, the Steam Queen Competition, live music and a carnival.
Hundreds of steam enthusiasts are set to descend on the small town of Stradbally for the event which continues tomorrow.