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Anderton & Rowland's Amusements, celebrated their 150th anniversary in August 2004.
The celebration coincided with their Annual visit to Torquay Regatta week; and on 4th & 5th August included a free display of vintage traction, and a exhibition marquee.
On Torquay seafront, adjacent to the noisy modern fairground activity, an area was set aside with five Showman's engines in steam, all originally in service with Anderton & Rowland Fairgrounds. As the evening drew on, the dynamos were used to illuminate the engines, whilst one engine powered the Grand Fairground Organ.
Parked nearby were some of the next 2 generations of heavy hauling tractor units, some still in use.
The marquee contained a fascinating photographic history of the Company, along with working models of fairground rides, and a splendid model of Burrell Showman's engine 'Lion' (which was one of the 5 in steam outside), displayed by it's builder.
On Thursday 5th, the Company invited Mayors from the nearby towns on the Fairs's regular summer route, to Torquay to mark the 150th anniversary.
Anderton & Rowland's is owned by the De-Vey family, based in Cullompton, and is the biggest fairground operator in the South West.
These photos were taken on the evening of 4th August 2005.
Click on the adjacent photos to view a larger image.
Photos taken by Rob Speare. |
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Showman's Engine Burrell No. 2804
Now in private ownership, as were all the engines on display, this appears to be in original condition. Built at Thetford in 1906.
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Burrell Road Locomotive "Vanguard"
Beatifully restored and in a new livery, this engine was being cleaned continuously. Reg: E 5380.
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Showman's Engine "Dragon"
Reg: CO 4485. In fantastic condition, this engine would originally have been part of the 'Dragon Scenic Railway' ride, used until WW2.
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"Scammell" Haulers
Purchased in the 1940's to replace the steam road locomotives. "Demetrius", "Dragon" and "Gladiator" represented the 2nd generation traction.
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Showman's Engine CO 3823
Wearing the original
A & R 'Gondolas' livery; this engine's dynamo powered the Grand Organ for the evening.
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Grand Organ 1905
Originally from the 'Dragon Scenic Railway' ride, (now dismantled), this wonderful Organ burst into life as the evening progressed.
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Burrell Road Locomotive "Lion"
Rebuilt in 1996, and in splendid condition. A beautiful 2" scale model of this engine was on display in the nearby celebration marquee.
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Scammel Showtrak Unit "Gladiator"
Bought in the 1940's to replace steam, these heavy tractor units both towed the fairground rides, and generated electricity for them.
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