Crank Up 2025: A Day of Community, Fun, and Farming Heritage at Rivenhall IWMF

Crank Up 2025 at Rivenhall IWMF poster.

Crank Up 2025: A Day of Community, Fun, and Farming Heritage at Rivenhall IWMF

The sun was shining and the tractors were revving their engines for Crank Up 2025 at Rivenhall IWMF! Held over the May bank holiday weekend, this year’s Crank Up event brought together more than 850 visitors for a fantastic day celebrating community spirit, farming heritage and sustainability! From vintage machinery to family-friendly entertainment, the event offered something for everyone, all while supporting a great local cause.

What is Crank Up?

Crank Up is the Farm Machinery Preservation Society’s annual exhibition, now held in conjunction with Rivenhall IWMF’s annual community celebration, designed to bring people together to explore the site, learn more about how the Rivenhall IWMF and Energy Centre works, and enjoy a fun-filled day out with family and friends.

Did you know that the event takes its name from the ‘cranking up’ of vintage engines and farm machinery – a nod to our region’s proud agricultural heritage. Visitors can get up close with classic cars, tractors, and farm equipment, meet local craftspeople, see farm animals and enjoy delicious food and drink from local vendors.

It’s also an opportunity to learn more about the important environmental work happening at the Rivenhall IWMF, including how the facility helps manage waste responsibly and generate sustainable energy for Essex. Learn more about Rivenhall IWMF here.

A Fun-Filled Day for All Ages

This year’s Crank Up event was bigger and better than ever. From the moment the gates opened, families, enthusiasts, and local residents poured in to enjoy the sights and ongoings of the day.

The field was alive with activity ! Vintage vehicles rumbled into action, children met friendly farm animals, and visitors browsed the many stalls showcasing local crafts and produce. There were refreshments galore, with local food vendors serving everything from homemade cakes and bakes to freshly brewed coffee.

In addition to the displays, there were plenty of opportunities to learn about the Rivenhall IWMF and Energy Centre. Team members were on hand to answer questions and offer guided insights into how the facility works, including information on advanced recycling to energy recovery processes that help reduce landfill waste.

For many visitors, it was a fascinating look at how modern technology and sustainability can work hand in hand with traditional farming and community values.

Supporting a Great Local Cause

One of the best parts of Crank Up 2025 was knowing that all donations raised throughout the day went to support the Essex & Herts Air Ambulance Trust, a vital local charity providing life-saving services across the region.

By coming along, enjoying the event, and contributing generously, visitors and stallholders strengthened local connections and helped support an organisation that makes an enormous difference to people’s lives. 

A Huge Thank You

Rivenhall IWMF would like to extend a massive thank you to everyone who attended Crank Up 2025. Your enthusiasm, support, and community spirit made the event such a success.

We’re also grateful to all the vendors, exhibitors, and volunteers who gave their time, expertise, and energy to help make the day run smoothly. Events like this wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of our partners and supporters.

For those who couldn’t make it, you can watch the Crank Up 2025 video highlights here.

Looking Ahead

Crank Up has quickly become a highlight of the local calendar, bringing together the best of community, countryside, and sustainability. We’re already looking forward to welcoming even more visitors in 2026 as we continue to celebrate everything that makes the Rivenhall IWMF such a unique part of the Essex landscape!

Until then, keep an eye on our news page for updates and future announcements. You can also reach us us via the following: