As the clocks went forward on Sunday morning (March 29th), the long days of winter are seemingly gone and everyone is starting to look forward to spring and, ultimately, summer.
April kicks off with an early Easter weekend and people all over the UK will be already making plans of how they intend to spend their four-day weekend. While you can never really predict what the weather will be like, no doubt there will be fingers crossed throughout the country for some dry conditions so they can get out and about to enjoy this break.
The steam community will also be holding a series of events during Easter and throughout the whole of April as everyone starts to feel a little more upbeat following the gloom of winter. The National Traction Engine Trust has once again issued an authorised list of the various steam rallies going on this month.
Here are the highlights happening across the UK during April.
St Dennis Steam & Vintage Rally – St Austell, Cornwall (April 3rd to 5th)
Kicking off the month is an Easter celebration of all things steam in the picturesque town of St Austell in Cornwall. The St Dennis Steam & Vintage Rally is the latest event of its ilk to be launched in the region. Held over the Easter weekend, it will showcase of the finest steam and vintage engines around.
Visitors are encouraged to submit their own vehicles whether it be a steam engine, tractor, commercial or stationary engine, vintage motorcycle or anything else that fits the bill. The day will see a host of exhibits alongside a vintage fair with traders, crafts and model displays throughout.
Camborne Trevithick Day – Camborne, Cornwall (April 25th)
Another treat for steam enthusiasts in Cornwall is the return of the Camborne Trevithick Day. The event will see a host of steam engines parade through the streets of this corner of the south-west. Traffic will come to a standstill as these magnificent engines make their through the town.
There will be a host of things to see and do for all the family. From model exhibitions, complete with miniature steam engines, to vintage vehicles to street entertainers and fairground rides, there is just so much to enjoy about this event. Concerts by Camborne Town Band and other local bands will soundtrack what is bound to be a great day out.
Riverside Steam & Vintage Rally – Southport, Merseyside (April 25th and 26th)
Up in the north-west of England, Southport will play host to the Riverside Steam & Vintage Rally on April 25th and 26th. Over 20 full-size steam engines will be on show including a selection of Showman's Engines as well as 20 miniature steam engines. There is also the chance to take a ride on the 100-year-old Steam Gallopers.
Fans of vintage cars are in for a real treat as there will be a number of Formula 1 cars of yesteryear and visitors can even win tickets to the Goodwood Revival to see the motors in action. Music will be provided by Wigan Ukulele Club while there is an outdoor bar as well as afternoon tea with a glass of Prosecco available.