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This smaller version of the famous machine is called a hov pod - and festival goers at Eastern Haze will have the chance to ride on them over the green pastures of Somerleyton Hall.

The hov pods are owned and driven by Peter Dutch, who's been asked to provide the thrill this summer at the site where the hovercraft was invented by Sir Christoher Cockerell in the 1950s.

Festival organiser Vinny Shillito says he delighted: "The hov pods are very exciting and it's fitting they should be at Somerleyton Hall where the prototype was created.

"Tickets for the festival itself are selling well and compared to this time last year, we've sold about twice as many. It's look like being a fantastic and really chilled weekend.''

Hov pod in action at Somerleyton Hall

Our Waveney reporter Guy Campbell also had a ride on one of the hov pods over the pastures and the water, racing at speeds of up to 45mph.

The hov pods will be available at the festival itself, with an experienced driver offering rides to members of the public.

Up to 20,000 people are expected to attend Eastern Haze and it's now full speed ahead for the final arrangements.

Headline acts such as The Levellers Acoustic, The Blockheads with Phill Jupitus on 'Dury duty', the Bootleg Beatles and Ozric Tentacles. Bands, DJs and other performers from Norfolk and Suffolk will also be taking part in the event.

Eastern Haze takes place from Friday 20 July to Sunday 22 July at Somerleyton Hall.

Weekend tickets are £65 for adults, £45 for young adults (14 to 17 years) and accompanied children under 14 are free. Telephone 0207 267 8320.