STEAM engines, classic cars and vintage tractors are among the attractions at a new event near Knutsford in May.

The inaugural Ashely Hall Traction Engine Rally will also feature steam fair attractions, trade stands, a craft and fine food marquee and 'Flyin' Ryan's Stunt Show'.

Ashley Hall Showground will host the event from May 23 to 25 and it will be the venue's first event of 2015.

Heather Clawson, from Tatton Estate Management (TEM), which owns the showground, said: "It’s great to launch the Ashley Hall Showground with such a fantastic first event.

"The Traction Engine Rally looks sure to be a brilliant show to get things started.

"We want to see the site put to good use over the coming years and look forward to hosting many more events in collaboration with the local community and businesses to bring people to this beautiful part of the north west.”

Family entertainment will be provided in the form of Paddington Bear and Nickleodeon's SpongeBob SquarePants making personal appearances throughout the weekend.

Richard Ashworth, from Outdoor Events, which is organising the rally, said: "We are really excited to be bringing the Traction Engine Rally to Ashley in May this year.

"The Ashley Hall Showground is a fantastic location and has all the facilities we could possibly need to host this great event.

"Thanks to the support of the Tatton Estate and the local community we are sure the event will be a big success."

The 50-acre site was launched as a venue in 2014 when it hosted the Cheshire Ploughing Match and attracted more than 5,000 people in support of rural charities.

For more information about the Ashley Hall Showground visit tattonestate.com and for more information about the Ashley Hall Traction Engine Rally please visit outdoorshows.co.uk.

Advance tickets are £7.20 for adults, £6.30 for over 65s, £3.60 for under 16s and £18 for a family of two adults and three children.