SPECTATORS took a step back in time at the weekend at a steam and vintage event in Southwick.

There were a record number of entrants for the Selwood Steam & Vintage Preservation Society's show reflecting vehicles and machinery from a bygone era.

From full-size steam engines restored to their former glory to the smaller, fully renovated stationary engines that used to power farm equipment, visitors got a glimpse into life from yesteryear.

And with hundreds of old vehicles – cars, motorcycles and commercials dating back up to 100 years – the spectators took a peek at past lifestyles.

Among the old machines on show was a working model of a 1920 Lister 5hp stationary engine driving a Bamford corn grinder. Proudly showing the nearly 100-year-old machine was Gordon Duley of Trowbridge.

He said: "This machine was bought by my grandfather Gifford Duley at the Bath & West Show, which years ago was held in Trowbridge, and it's been in the family ever since."

Matt Coombes brought his 1929 Aveling Porter ten ton steam roller back to the village. The machine spent its working life with Barnes Steam Roller Company.

The steam enthusiast said: "It's been a heritage trip for us to come to the village where this machine spent most of its working life. We are keen to visit the spot where the Barnes company once stood.”

Among the 50 vintage motorcycles was an old police bike, a 1957 5T Triumph Speed Twin built to police specification that did its service with Surrey Constabulary.

Owner Brian Badman has researched its history and had photos of the bike back in the 60s when it was used as a police vehicle.

Another Trowbridge entrant was Adrian Conner with his immaculate 1959 Bensons Confectionery ERF commercial. This bright red lorry used to transport sweets and toffees throughout the country for Bensons and now it's bringing the sweet taste of success by winning awards at shows for former Usher drayman Adrian Conner.

He said: “I am no stranger to ERF commercials. I used to drive one when I worked at Ushers Brewery and now I enjoy these vintage shows with this lovely machine.”

Chairman of the Preservation Society, Roy Craddock, welcomed several new exhibits to the rally.

He said: "We continue to work tirelessly each year to improve and we aim to make the rally one of the best in the south west.”