Every year in early May the East Anglian Traction Engine Society holds a ‘Crank Up’ near Saffron Walden. I couldn’t resist going.

True, they are not locomotives, but they smell the same. And it’s worth going just for that oily, smoky odour.

Many of the manufacturers names are familiar. Here’s a Ruston & Hornsby.

A Ruston & Hornsby locomotive would probably be pulling some industrial wagons, but this Ruston was powering a baler…

If you are into portable engines, lorries, tractors or vintage cars there is plenty to see. This colourful 1960s Foden caught my eye.

If you are in the area next May why not drop by. Smoke, sun and steam – you can’t go wrong.