The Great Dorset Steam Fair returns today as it marks its 47th year.

Read an essential guide to this year's steam fair 

Since it first launched in 1968, the popular annual event has attracted hundreds of thousands of visitors.

The Steam Fair - held at Tarrant Hinton - is one of the largest open air shows in Europe and is known as the biggest steam and vintage show in the world. 

This year's five-day event promises its usual bumper line-up of steam engines, vintage and classic vehicles, music, stalls and stunt displays. 

We've rummaged through our archives to bring you a gallery of images from the very first event through to 2014. 

See lots of pictures from the Great Dorset Steam Fair over the years in a gallery