The 29th Haddenham Steam Rally
by Robert Pumfrey

On 7th & 8th September 2002, following an unfavourable weather forecast and a showery Friday night, the event was blessed with fine sunshine that helped to produce one of the best Haddenham Steam Rallies ever.
Since September 1971, this rally has been held on the side of Haddenham Hill overlooking the Cambridgeshire fens and Ely Cathedral.
Formerly a Club-organised rally, there were still over 20 club members attending with their steam engines. There were over 500 exhibits with 52 full-size engines.
Star attraction this year was a partly-restored Foden six-wheel wagon owned by Mick Hibble of Mildenhall, which was attending its first-ever steam rally.
There was also a line-up of twelve Aveling & Porter steam tractors and rollers.
The fen skies were lit up on the Saturday night with ten showmans engines outside the beer tent and a fair with Rules Steam Gallopers, and the Pauline Reader dancers performing on-stage with Graham Atkinson’s Oktoberfest organ. A night to remember!!
The 30th Haddenham Steam Rally will be held on 6th & 7th September, 2003.