Vintage vehicle enthusiasts from across the country will be descending on Shropshire next month for an event which is one of the biggest of its kind and has raised £150,000 for charity over the years.

More than 700 restored cars, lorries, buses and military vehicles as well as scores of tractors dating back to World War One will be involved in the Mid Shropshire Vintage Club’s 24th vintage vehicle rally.

It takes place at the agricultural showground in Berwick Road, Shrewsbury, on June 4 and 5.

Other attractions at the two-day rally will include a Victorian fair with steam-operated “gallopers”, antique and crafts marquees and trade stands featuring auto-jumble aimed at restoration collectors and enthusiasts.

Rally organiser Derek Sheedy said: “Our rally began in a small way 24 years ago.

“Since then it has developed as a ‘mecca’ for enthusiasts and to the public to the point that we have been able to make contributions to local charities over the years which have totalled £150,000.”

Among the hundreds of vehicles on view will be more than 50 different models of the famous Ferguson tractor — reflecting the particular interest in Shropshire and the border area in tractor restoration and preservation.

Each year the rally organisers feature a particular marque of tractor and this year it is the turn of the familiar “little grey Fergy” designed by Sir Harry Ferguson.

Half a million were produced between 1946 and 1956, one of which was used by Sir Edmund Hillary in an expedition to the South Pole.

Another was used by local gardening expert and television presenter Percy Thrower when he launched his garden centre in Oteley Road in Shrewsbury.

Ownership of the historic Ferguson has passed to his great-grandson, eight-year-old Joshua Gurvey — who becomes the youngest exhibitor at next week’s rally.

The rally will run from 9am to 5pm on Saturday and 9am to 4pm on Sunday.

Admission is £8 for adults and £7 for pensioners, with accompanied children under 14 free.

Further details of the event are available from Mr Sheedy on (01952) 770985.