Category: Interviews

South Wales Showman Andrew Holmes talks to World’s Fair about the changing nature of the fairground business, winter in Newport, plus fond memories of Neath Fair and bus trips to Blackpool. As a young man, Andrew Holmes’ favourite fairground gathering of the year was Neath Great …

London Showman John Birch talks to World’s Fair about the rides he’s owned, how he ended calling Santa Pod Raceway home, and why he barely does any private business these days. Currently in the process of ‘migrating’ from the London & Home Counties to the Norwich & …

Michael Harris of Pat Collins Fun Fairs talks to World’s Fair about the famous fairground brand, learning to paint, the importance of good maintenance, and why he’s never been thirsty to do business overseas. Michael’s father, Cllr Anthony Harris, former Mayor of Walsall and past …

Scottish Showman Raecher Hiscoe talks to World’s Fair about ride manufacturing, becoming an inspector, taking a break from travelling, and the support of family in making it all possible. Showmen’s lives are often multi-faceted, fusing mechanical and physical work with driving, dealing with local authorities, …

The Horton’s Steam Fair owner talks about swapping a career in construction for the fairground, the cost of keeping a vintage show on the road, and why there’s still some steam left in Carter’s old places. “Everybody told me I was barmy,” says James Horton, …

As he approaches his 75th birthday next month, World’s Fair sits down with Irish Showman Joe Cullen to reflect on fairs, family and showbusiness both north and south of the border. Before Joe’s latest landmark anniversary, the Cullen family will be providing the fairground attractions at …

Like his father, Gilbert Chadwick Jnr has made a living from ghost trains and fun houses, but has had less luck with haunted houses. Here is his story, from Frankenstein’s Castle to Bavaria. World’s Fair caught up with Gilbert last month as he returned to his …

After ‘emigrating’ from Lancashire to the Notts & Derby Section, Michael McKean has enjoyed a long Guild career and become a lessee. Here he reflects on seven decades in showbusiness, and reveals why he’s only ever dabbled at becoming a machine operator. “I’ve been a …