If you are not booking us direct, we advise you get confirmation from them, or check with us, that we will be in attendance!
Downs Traditional Steam Fair
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Steam gallopers
Operated by the Downs family since 1943. Our Gallopers are widely regarded as one of the finest still in operation and are a must have for any occasion. Our Gallopers (sometimes referred to as a Carousel) are available for any occasion, be it a private party or corporate event, to public events including county shows and steam rallies, or even weddings and film work, our Gallopers are sure to be a spectacular addition for whichever purpose.
Built by Frederick Savage of Kings Lynn in 1896, our Gallopers attended fairs around London and the Home Counties until purchased by Allan Downs Snr. in 1943, who along with his two sons John and Allan Jnr. began travelling the ride over a much wider area, attending fairs and at the end of the war the hugely popular peacetime celebrations. The ride also appeared in the 1950 film 'Wall Of Death'. Over the years the ride continued to change and improve, growing ever more elaborate as it passed through the generations of the family, being one of very few that can still be steam driven, the ride is now operated by Allan Snr's grandson David. The ride features polished twisted brass, hand painted decoration and some elaborate brilliant cut glass mirrors amongst it's decorative features, and riders can experience all of this on a choice of 30 horses or six cockerels, whilst the magnificent 89 key Gavioli organ provides a selection of old and modern music.
At 40 feet in diameter the ride requires a site as level as possible, whilst suitable access for large lorries must also be available. Each year the Gallopers are inspected by independent engineers and carries its own public liability as standard.
For more information & availability please contact us at... info@steamfairhire.com.
