MALDON'S Museum of Power was overrun by classic camper vans and vintage stalls last Sunday, bringing together the essence of a family festival.
The museum, based in Langford, near Maldon, had a variety of trade stands, clothing and food stalls, live music and performances.
Up to 2,000 people turned up to see the unique camper vans and cars along with the museum's own crowd-pleaser, Marshall the Lilleshall triple expansion steam pump.
Manager of the museum, Susan Hastings-Herbert, said: "The day was a phenomenal success. We were glad to have hosted the day and we are hoping to add the event to our calendar next year.
"We hadn't planned for that many visitors so it was a nice surprise to see everyone turn up. The day offered something for everyone – that's why I think it was such a success."
But it wasn't all fun for Susan, the night before some food and drink stalls pulled out of the event which required her to roll up her sleeves and create her own tea stand.
"When we were stuck for refreshments I knew I could help out so I decided to do a tea stall – it's all part of the job.
"We do these events because they can benefit the museum, it's really hard to keep it running and we always need extra volunteers to help out. It's very satisfying work knowing that you're keeping history alive," said Susan.
Visitors enjoyed the beer tent and owners of some of the vintage camper vans gave impromptu talks about the mechanics of their retro vehicles.
Event organiser Steven Cooper said: "It was a fantastic day at one of the best venues in Essex.
"We like the idea that we are staying true to the original idea of a festival – which means people getting together to have a good time and make some friends. It was a great family day."
The Museum of Power is located in the former Southend Waterworks Langford Pumping Station in Langford, and has a collection which ranges from a working overhead machine shop to a petrol-powered iron.
