I drove a big steam engine around a show ring and managed not to cause too much chaos! - Karen Compton

Kington Vintage Show is usually a chance to enjoy a lovely afternoon looking at all kinds of fantastic vehicles.

This year my husband, photographer Andy Compton and I got to play a more active role!

We went along to the annual event expecting to chat to exhibitors and take some photographs for the Mid Wales Journal and Shropshire Star.

Unbeknown to us, the vintage show organisers had other plans.

As soon as we arrived we were called on the loud speaker into the main ring by the former owner of the Burton Hotel and treasurer of the Vintage Show, John Richardson.

He told the crowds that Andy and I attend all local community events, reporting and photographing them and we have helped in attracting tourists to the area over many years.

He then presented us with a beautiful glass clock with a steam engine on it and an engraved plaque with their thanks.

Andy and I were very surprised and extremely grateful. We enjoy going to all the local events and have a great day out as well as doing our jobs.

But the surprises were not over yet – John told us we were then to drive two steam engines around the ring. Andy quickly said he would take pictures so it was over to me to get the steamer moving in the right direction.

Getting onto the steam engine was the biggest problem for someone like me with short legs – I could have done with a step up to the step!

Once at the top of the steamer, the steering wheel was infront of me and the owner set us off, quickly giving me instructions to turn the wheel right or left! Follow the funnel on the front of the steamer, he said. I have to admit I had not even noticed the funnel at that point!

The first two circuits for the ring were a blur and I needed a lot of help keeping control of the engine. All that power in your hands was a bit terrifying.

But by circuit three and four I was enjoying it and the views! I even got to sound the whistle.

Andy took to a different steam engine for a short while too.

Getting down off the steamer was interesting, thank goodness there were no photographs of that!

I was shaking, had sooty hands and legs, but it was a thrilling new experience!

I enjoyed it so much that I now want a steam engine but it wouldn't fit in the garage!