AN estimated 1,500 people visited a transport rally at a County Durham museum.

More than 200 exhibitors were attracted to the 14th annual event at the Timothy Hackworth Victorian and Railway Museum, in Shildon.

Exhibits ranged from an 1840s replica bicycle, through a 1930s supercharged racing car, to modern-day kit cars.

The event proved so popular that several people stayed long after the scheduled 3pm finish.

Museum manager Alan Pearce said: "It was an absolutely superb day. We had a massive turnout and the weather helped what turned out to be a tremendous event.

"We were expecting some problems due to foot-and-mouth, because a number of vehicles are stored on farms, but we're really pleased with the number of visitors who made it."

The event, which started as a steam weekend, has grown from its humble beginnings, and this year there were about 70 first-time exhibitors.

Other vehicles included motorbikes, buses, tractors and fire engines, but there were attractions for all the family.

There was a bird of prey display, an American Civil War re-enactment society, trade stalls and rides on the steam locomotive Merlin, which proved particularly popular with the children.

Mr Pearce said: "Rather than just being an event for enthusiasts, there has been a lot for everybody else as well, and we are very pleased with it."