SEVERN Park at Bridgnorth is set for full steam ahead at this year’s Trevithick Steam ‘Rally in the Valley.
“The organisers have managed to bring together a wonderful mix of exhibits and entertainment for all the family, for next Friday, Saturday and Sunday,” said organiser Brian Davies. “Exhibits will be coming from as far away as Sussex, Derbyshire and the Wirral, including traction engines, tractors, vintage machinery, classic cars and motorcycles, commercial and military vehicles.
“New for 2009 is a display of Suffolk Punch heavy horses and there will be parades and displays by many of the 300 exhibits over the Saturday and Sunday.
“One of our steam tractors is making a return to Bridgnorth after starting its working life in 1918, hauling grain to Ridleys Seeds in Mill Street, Low Town.
“We also have engines dating back to the 1870’s which are rarely seen in Shropshire. On show again will be the Trevithick 200 charity, Catch Me Who Can working replica of the 1808 engine built at Hazledines Foundry adjacent to Severn Park. The engine is nearing completion prior to track testing to gain approval from the Railway Inspectorate to pull passengers.
“We are pleased to announce our list of entertainers for this year’s rally which includes, Highley and Cleobury Brass Bands, the ATC Band and the Victorian Music Hall (courtesy of Ironbridge Gorge Museums).
“With over 120 Morris Dancers, some of whom have travelled up from Cornwall, the park will be a mass of colours and different sounds.
“Children have not been forgotten and a variety of activities await them including Punch & Judy, face painting, roundabout ride and bouncy castle. Dr Sunshine will be on hand to provide games and activities throughout the daytime.
“Demonstrations by artisans from Ironbridge Gorge Museums including pottery, pipe making, blacksmith’s forge, printing and period dress making will be ondisplay. An expert coracle maker will be giving demontrations in this ancient craft.
“Kinver Model Engineers will be operating their passenger railway alongside the riverbank. An original 1950’s fairground ride – The Skid and other showmen’s equipment will be on view courtesy of Russell Cook.
“For the bargain hunters we have over 50 trade stands selling a wide range of merchandise from books and pictures to canal ware and auto jumble, and from models to jewellery and hand crafted wooden giftware.
“Our food court offers a variety for all tastes including fish and chips, indian curries, noodles, coffee and cakes, burgers, confectionery, real ale bar and cider bar. Enjoy a mealtime break in our seted area inside our main marquee.
“If the day time activities are not enough then join us on Saturday evening when centre stage will be the last Victorian pub pianist Dr Busker who is making his first appearance in Shropshire.
“To start the weekend on the Friday evening we have our launch show in the main marquee with the Bridgnorth Community Choir followed by The Plonkers Agricultural Showband. Join us as we kick off the weekend with an evening of music and laughter.”
Gates open each day at 10am and close at 5pm. Admission is £5 for adults and £3 for concessions, children under 12 are free.
Next Friday’s concert starts at 7pm and gates open at 6.30pm Tickets cost £3 (no concessions). Next Saturday’s concert starts at 7.30pm (gates open at 6.30pm) Tickets cost £5 (no concessions and unsuitable for children or those of a genteel nature).
Tickets are available in advance from: Visitor Information Centre in Listley Street and Knickerbockers Ice Cream Parlour in Low Town.
All proceeds from the rally will be in aid of Trevithick 200 and other local charities. “On Severn Park we have parking for 800 vehicles and the police have requested that local people use the public car parks and walk to the park to reduce any possible traffic congestion,” said Mr Davies.
For further information visit www.trevithick200.co.uk or telephone: 07929 290465
