HUNDREDS let off steam when they took to the track for a top miniature railway rally in Basingstoke.

Crowds of nearly 800 people flocked to the annual Basingstoke and District Model Engineering Society miniature steam rally at Viables Craft Centre.

Clouds of steam filled the air as a selection of miniature engines huffed and puffed their way along two and four inch raised tracks during the two day event at the weekend.

More than 30 steam traction engines were parked in the paddock with some of them offering rides for excited families and children.

Meanwhile two large marquees provided indoor displays including one from the Basingstoke Model Boating Club and demonstrations from Axminster Tools.

There was also an ice cream van and a charity collection for St John Ambulance.

Club member Mick Lowe said: “It has been superb and very successful and one of our busiest years.

“We were at full capacity on Saturday with the weather playing a big part in it.

“There was fun for all the family and there was a great support from the traction engine side and from visitors from other clubs.”