THOUSANDS of people visited a Dorset Museum in a sellout event.

4500 visitors attended the record-breaking sell-out Tiger Day at The Tank Museum in Bovington, to see the world’s only running Tiger I tank in action.

The Tiger 131 runs only twice a year on Tiger Day in April and September and attracts visitors from all over the world for the rare opportunity to see the German weapon.

Dorset Echo: The Tiger 131 in action alongside The ChurchillThe Tiger 131 in action alongside The Churchill (Image: PR)

Museum Curator David Willey said, “The Tiger 131 is the most famous tank in the Museum’s collection and was an important prize when it was seized by the Allies in 1943.

“Over 80 years from its capture, the Tiger 131 is still fascinating crowds and playing an important role in telling the story of tanks and the people that served in them.”

Highlights of the day included a battle re-enactment and WW2 tank display, including fellow Hollywood film star Sherman ‘Fury’ in a unique demonstration of historic tanks.

As well as all the thrilling action, visitors were able to get up close to the vehicles in the arena and see live artillery firing.

Tiger Day is a sell-out event, so visitors who wish to see the rare tank in September are urged to book tickets in advance.