Hills back at Trafford Retail Park

Since making an impromptu visit over Easter, Kurt Hill of North West Fun Fair Supplies has certainly made himself at home at the Trafford Retail Park, putting in no less than three appearances this season. He was back again in support of a flrework display on Tuesday November 3.

This was the fourth of what would be seven bonfire fairs in the region provided by Hills. With no fairs or fireworks this November at either Old Trafford cricket ground or Sale, Kurt and his dad Henry thought they had spotted a niche in this corner of Greater Manchester.

Yet not even the promise of two firework displays was enough to bring out the crowds and the showmen suffered. Maybe the locals didn’t fancy the weather; perhaps they were waiting for the big firewortc display at the Trafford Centre on Bonfire Night (when it was also wet); maybe some had gone to watch Manchester United play CSKA Moscow at Old Trafford football ground; or perhaps they had no money.

Nevertheless, the lessee had assembled an interesting selection of attractions at the Trafford Retail Park, not least his own Waltzer. This is the 25 yeat old showman’s second such ride which was acquired from Courtown Amusement Park in Ireland over the summer. The vintage Jackson built machine is very traditional in appearance and boasts simple but charming decor.

To transport the ride, Kurt has bought two box trailers, hauled by a choice of 14 tractor units and the 4-wheel centre, meanwhile, has been given new tyres. New steps and windshields have also been added but overall its new owner says he is happy with the condition of the machine. Over the winter it will be redecorated by Gary Leach to match his other Walizer.

Other rides at this event included Kurt & Henry Hill’s Sky Diver, Meteorite, mini Paratrooper, mini Ski Jump, mini Chairs, cups & saucers, toy set and ladybirds; Tony Litiiemhumest’s Superheroes dark ride and bumpy slide; Jordan Cowie’s Tagada and bungee trampolines; Lawrence Hill Jnr’s Fun House; Craig Harrison’s Ghost Train and Sizzler Twist; Luke Knightly’s Miami and mini Pirate Ship; and Dean Hill’s train ride.

Food and games were provided by George Gailick, Dean Hill, Henry Hill, Lawrence Hill Jnr and Michael Hill. Showmen were also responsible for glow sales.

A generally disappointing bonfire schedule was saved for Hills by events at Buile Hill Park in Salford (November 5) and Chester (Saturday November 7).