‘Mini-Glastonbury’ as rain hits show

Biddenden Tractorfest was hit by torrential rain at the weekend but organisers were putting on a brave face, describing it as a ‘mini-Glastonbury’.

Downpours meant the festival had to close early on Sunday afternoon as cars became mired in mud, with some having to be towed out of the car park by tractors.

Although tempers frayed, the soggy summer weather largely brought out the best of British spirit, as thousands of visitors braved traffic hold-ups and waterlogged fields to see more than 250 tractors on display.

Stall holders put on a show with demonstrations of leather craft, rug-making and iron-working, while daring motorcycle displays from the Wheel of Death thrilled the crowds.

Spokesman Jo Smith said the seventh Tractorfest was hit by a “completely unexpected downfall of torrential rain” on Sunday and Tractorfest sent its “profuse apologies” to disappointed visitors as it closed early.

She said: “Sadly at around lunchtime it became apparent the car park was becoming too treacherous to allow more cars in and Tractorfest team were forced to close the gates to ensure people were kept safe.

“Tractors were brought out to help those cars stuck in the mud.

“Those already in the field took advantage of the sun shining once more and happy children wallowed in mud.

“Think mini-Glastonbury,” she said.

Some visitors have turned down refunds as they want to see their money go to Tractorfest charities, but those who were affected by the closure and want their money back can find details at www.tractorfest.co.uk

Pictures: Chris Davey Mike and Sam Baldwin chat with John Wells on his 1952 tractor

Fletcher Robinson and Jacob Lavington, both aged five

Heavy rain hit the Biddenden Tractorfest, with organisers describing it as a ‘mini-Glastonbury’

Visitors needed hot drinks as the weather turned