Category: Features

Joe Barker runs Midland firm Barker’s Amusements alongside his brothers John and Martin. After Easter in Tamworth, their 2024 tour will continue with dates around Staffordshire, Warwickshire and Leicestershire.Barker’s Amusements My dad, Albert Barker travelled three machines when me and my brothers were kids. The …

What is Martyn’s Law and how does it affect Showmen? ADIPS General Manager Carl Hagemann explains.Following on from last months Myths, there is another piece of news that is floating around that is giving some concern to Showmen, event organisers, indoor and outdoor music and …

Tigers, Beavers, Hippos and Bulls all frequented the fairgrounds in the 1950s and 60s. Here, Alastair Arnott picks out a few favourites.Growing up in central Scotland in the 1950s and 60s, it seemed to me that there was a preponderance of Leyland vehicles on the …

Known in more recent times for the Top Star ride he travelled up and down the country, Northern Section showman Michael Houghton spent many years with various machines at Whitley Bay’s former Spanish City amusement park. Flying Coaster My first machine, when I was 22, …

ADIPS General Manager Carl Hagemann busts the top 10 worst Health and Safety myths.We all know that health and safety can be a bit OTT at times and no doubt many silly decisions have been made by those in authority. Some requests or decisions I …

West Yorkshire Showman Darran Church, who trades under the banner of W Marshall’s Amusements and RideZone Plus, tells us about the machines he’s travelled – and the only place you’ll be able to find them this season.DodgemsWhen Deana and I got married in 1989, we …

After its release onto the international film festival circuit last July, Showman Paul Bibb’s first full feature film, My Only Relative, has picked up a number of awards.Last July we reported that Showman and actor Paul Bibb’s first feature film as a director and producer …

The Nottingham Goose Fair awards have been running since 2014, but this year’s awards were the first to be voted on by visitors to the model show. Over the years the awards have grown, and from two in 2014, the show now features seven trophies. …

North East born, Yorkshire-based Showman Freddy Stokes has built and travelled various attractions during his career. Here, he tells us about his manufacturing journey.Dive BomberWhen I got married in 1982, my dad (also Freddy) lent me and Michelle the double Dive Bomber. We sold it …

Is it too hot or cold to work? ADIPS General Manager Carl Hagemann explains how to assess the risks and keep within the law.Temperature in the WorkplaceThe Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations require employers to provide a reasonable indoor temperature in the workplace. This …