This year will be bigger and better than ever before

The event, which takes place this weekend, is bigger and better than ever before – with arena events, activities, steam engines, fairground attractions, craft stalls and more.

And this year the helter-skelter featured in Downton Abbey will be included.

Many of the best of the Saunders’ internationally-famous steam collection will be on display and will take part in the Grand Steam Parade.

Highlights will include the steam tug-of-war, Roman battle re-enactments, trapeze acts the Essex dog display team and fly-pasts by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. On Saturday afternoon the event is expecting a C47 Dakota and on Sunday morning an Avro Lancaster.

Visitors can also enjoy helicopter flights and traditional fairground games – and the new book about the restoration of the mill and creation of the nature reserve will be on sale.

There will be plenty of opportunities to grab some refreshments, with food stalls, bar marquee with live music and cream teas on offer.

Kevin Balderstone, leader of the major events team, said: “The free Kids’ Zone is always very popular with parents and children and visitors enjoy the fact that so many of the entertainments are included in the entrance price.”

He added: “We pride ourselves on making this a great day out for all the family, whatever their age or their interests. We feel this is our best programme ever and are delighted we can offer such a huge variety of activities for people to enjoy.”