The Scarborough Fair Collection Opening Events
The Scarborough Fair Collection
Announcment on behalf of Graham Atkinson and his team...
The long-awaited news is announced that a new steam and organ museum is due to open its doors to the public this June. Based at the Flower of May Holiday Park at Lebberston, just south of Scarborough, “The Scarborough Fair Collection” is the brainchild of enthusiast - Graham Atkinson, who has built up one of the largest and finest collections of steam Showman’s Engines and Mechanical Organs in the UK.
Instruments by such famous names as Gavioli, Ruth, Marenghi, Decap and Mortier form only a part of the large collection to be seen on display. Several gleaming Showman’s Engines, including “The Iron Maiden”, regarded by many to be the world’s most famous traction engine and star of the 1960’s film of the same name is one of the major attractions at the purpose-built venue. At The Scarborough Fair Collection, it’s not the sight and sound of just one but TWO “Mighty” Wurlitzer organs that will be featured during regular Sunday open days and weekly Wednesday afternoon tea dances, played by ex Tower Ballroom, Blackpool Organist – Kevin Grunill. The opening of the collection to the public will be welcomed by many, particularly those who still mourn the loss of Turner’s at Northampton. Of particular interest to mechanical organ enthusiasts will be the first public appearance of two new additions to the collection. “Rosita”, built by Anton Pluer and the rare Model 37 Ruth will be entertaining visitors for the first time since arrival at Scarborough.
Graham Atkinson anticipates that the collection will attract visitors from far and wide. “We’ve already had hundreds of enquiries from people asking when the new attraction is going to open and after several years of hard work by all those involved in this mammoth project, I’m pleased to be able to announce that the new complex will be open from Saturday 21st June”, Graham said.
To celebrate the official opening of the venue, two special events have been arranged to take place this June.
A Gala Opening Concert, featuring both Wurlitzer organs will take place on Saturday 21st June at 2.30pm (Doors open at 1pm). The concert will feature the new venue’s Resident Organist – Kevin Grunill, who will be joined by Andrew Nix and Nigel Odgen – presenter of BBC Radio 2’s “The Organist Entertains”. Tickets are priced at £8.50.
On Sunday 22nd June, visitors will be able to see and hear the rest of the collection. The mechanical organs in the collection are to be played and visitors will also be able to enjoy riding on the “Golden Galloping Horses”. Both Wurlitzer organs will be presented by Kevin Grunill and the open day proves to be fun for all the family. Open Day 11am-5pm. Admission £6.50. (Under 12’s £3.00).
Regular weekly Wednesday afternoon tea dances will be a feature from 25th June. 1pm-4pm (Doors open 12.00). Admission £4.95 (Adults) & £3.00 (Under 12’s).
Tickets can be purchased in advance for both events by telephoning 01723 586698.
The Scarborough Fair Collection. Flower of May Holiday Park. Lebberston, Scarborough. North Yorkshire. YO11 3NU.
(01723) 586698 Email scarboroughfaircollection@yahoo.co.uk
