Dave 'the Shed' will be up against the 'Conqueror', a 1924 road locomotive, as his latest challenge. The charity event will also raise money for the Children's Hospice, South West's Precious Lives Appeal, and the Fairground Heritage Trust.

Strongman Dave, who successfully pulled two double decker buses in Plymouth last month, told fairground-heritage.org.uk: "This will be the first time I have attempted to pull a steam engine but I won't let that deter me. I am really looking forward to the challenge, so do come along and cheer me on!"

Richard Sandercock owner of the 'Conqueror' is looking forward to pitting his engine against Dave. He added: "I can't see it happening, Frankly. But it's all in a good cause and hopefully we'll be pulling a good crowd as well".

Judy Pride, Children's Hospice South West Community Fundraiser for Plymouth admires Dave's strength and courage. She said: "Dave is such a great supporter of Children's Hospice South West and our Precious Lives Appeal and I can't thank the Dingles Fairground Heritage Centre enough for allowing Dave to give this a try!"

The Wall first appeared on British fairgrounds in 1928 and the Trust agreed it timely to celebrate the 80th Anniversary, with the Wall of Ken Fox being the star attraction at the Fairground Heritage Centre for the weekend.

Godfrey's idea of a riders' reunion resulted in the appearance of several guest riders, including Allan Ford and Jerry De Roye. Jerry, at 80, can claim to be the oldest practicing Wall rider and Ken Fox's son Alex the youngest at 14.

Former riders Albert Evans and Ned Kelley also attended, with Albert exhibiting his immaculately restored Indian bike. Rider Dave Seymour (of the Dave Seymour Troupe), kindly loaned his Wall of Death Bally front.

Saturday saw large crowds from opening time and the first show commenced with a full house. The weather was fine, bright sunny and dry. Spectators were treated to the usual thrilling display by Ken, Luke, Alex and Kerri Cameron, with guest rider Jerry De Roye appearing at every show.

Neil Calladine was the shows front man and Julie Fox in the pay box. On Saturday afternoon well known spieler David Weeks joined Neil on the front of the show.

Displays of vintage motorcycles were an added attraction, these included Indians favoured by Wall riders as well as famous British marques, Triumph, BSA, Matchless and Jowett.

Claire and Alan Mercer from Liphook brought along a splendid Triumph Thunderbird among their collection, and Ken Westaway a 1956 Speedway outfit. A notable exhibitor was Jeremy Jackson of St Austell, an authority on the history of motorcycles in general and Speedway in particular.

On Sunday afternoon, Ken took a brave volunteer up on the wall on his handlebars. The stunt by the Harley Davidson Club was to raise cash for the Children's Hospice South West.

In the new building the Dodgem and Ark enjoyed brisk patronage, along with the games and arcade. Models on display included two notable Walls in miniature, by Barrie Ratcliffe and Arthur Dyke. Further displays of models included Terry Norman's gallopers, a Rally Scene display by Mike Simmons, and Jessie and Gerard Pole's layout.

Jim Greenwood fielded his impressive array of cardboard models. Two welcome newcomers were Tom Robertson with a large display of models and Terry Mounce and his large scale transport models. Aubrey and Debbie Tummon were among several trade exhibitors.

Upon entering the Fairground Heritage Centre, visitors were treated to the sight of the Burrell Rajah in steam, courtesy of owners Clive and Marion Gibbard. Henry, Sarah and Danielle Chipperfield provided refreshments outside the new building.

The event was a resounding success and as the Trust has only three full time employees: Roger, Karen and Kyra, the event could not have been undertaken without the large number of regular unpaid volunteers; our sincere thanks to them all.

The Thursday and Friday before the event were used for media filming and the Ken Fox troupe was featured with ITV Westcountry presenter Claire Manning filming on the Wall. The ITV crew were so fascinated with the FHT collection that filming was extended to the Dodgem, Ark, and other attractions.

Further filming was undertaken over two days by Trans Worlds Sport, who produce programmes for Channel 4 TV and Sky Sports. BBC Radio Devon returned for an outside broadcast on the Sunday. A Scottish production company also filmed over two days for a documentary about the Wall.

You may be interested to know that Jerry De Roye recently told the tale of how his boyhood dream of becoming a Wall rider came about on the BBC Radio 4, Midweek programme. Go to www.bbc.co.uk and click on radio 4 and then select Midweek and press listen again.

The weekend was tinged with sadness, as the news of the passing of our dear friend and supporter Ernie Taylor was announced on Thursday 24th. A book of condolence was signed by many who knew him.

Top picture of Jerry De Roye, courtesy of the Western Morning News.

The café was kept exceptionally busy from opening time until late in to the afternoon. Many local visitors returned for an afternoon Cream Tea, swelling the numbers nicely.

Much work has been carried out on the Rodeo Switchback during the winter. All the gratings and steps have been painted and crack testing has been carried out on the metal parts. It is hoped the ride will open to ride upon in the near future.

On show (as ever) were the Anderton & Rowland Showtracs, Dragon and John Bull, accompanied by the Phil Vanstone fairground transport collection was in attendance with the Ex-Whitelegg ERF providing power for the dodgem.

Music was supplied by Margaret Cook making a welcome return with her with her well known Ruth organ. Greeting visitors at the entrance to the centre, Kevin Gamlen's proved to be a popular exhibit.

Model makers and exhibitors travelled from all parts of the country, including John Manser returning with his excellent well known Helter Skelter and associated transport. Terry Norman presented his Anderton & Rowland Ark and Showtrac models and Barrie Ratcliffe returned with his model layout and presented his new Showtrac model.

Circus models were well represented by Arthur Dyke's huge display of transport and artefacts and Dave Rees, from south Wales, made a welcome return with his well known Chipperfield layout.

Jim Greenwood was conspicuous by his absence, due a spell of ill health, but did pay a visit to present Albert Martin with his prize from the autumn Raffle, a card model, of a Burrell Engine completed by Jim. Jim has very kindly donated another piece of his handiwork for this summer's raffle. Our best wishes to Jim for a speedy recovery.

John Fenn, the resident wood carver, was busy finishing of a horse being made to order. Ian and Hayley Johnson travelled from Long Eaton with their coffee table model among many others and Dave Homer brought his superb Speedway model along with his trade stand.

Gerard and Jesse Pole returned with their layout and Aubrey and Debbie manned their display of DVDS and transport models. Mike Simmons from Redruth, made a welcome return with his rally scene within a glass showcase.

The Dodgem was operated by Frank Edwards while the Super Chariot Racer was run by Stephen smith.

The Artic Monkeys Kaiser Chiefs ,Babyshambles, the Cribs, Klaxons and Muse are among those nominated. The awards take place at the Big Gig event, on 28th February and are due to be screened the following night on freeview channel, E4.

Bristol based production company Hello Charlie produced the film, which was shot at the Dingles Fairground Heritage Centre on February 1st. Director Tom Hodgkinson was in search of some quirky images and the Dingles Fairground Heritage Centre houses some of the most unusual artefacts imaginable.

A spokesman for Hello Charlie said, "The range of surreal images is amazing, absolutely unique. We had great fun filming there."

The state of the museum's Skid ride presents a much greater challenge, with £12,000 being estimated as the amount required to restore it to working order. The FHT believes that such a fine example deserves to be restored as soon as possible, and if any individual or company would consider sponsoring the project we would be delighted to arrange a meeting, or to discuss the project informally with you.

The doors opened at 3pm and the museum's working rides were kept busy, as was Henry Chipperfield's Canteen. The excellent Hatherleigh Silver Band performed from 4pm, with the service commencing at 5pm.

Power and lights for the rides was provided by the museum's resident Showman's Engines Rajah and Star. Phil Vanstone's most impressive ERF was also on generating duty for the Dodgems. During proceedings the draw was made for the very detailed model of a Burrell Showman's engine, kindly made and donated by regular exhibitor Jim Greenwood. This raffle raised a significant sum and we are most grateful to Jim for his generosity.

The building was bathed in the atmospheric soft glow of the lamps on museum rides, the Ark, Dodgem, Skid and Switchback - upon whose steps the service was conducted.

Richard Sandercock welcomed the assembled congregation and commented on the improved conditions, remembering fondly the "frozen" years of previous events in the old museum building.

Richard introduced the vicar of Lifton, the Rev Jenny Arsecott, and read the first lesson. The well chosen carols appealed to young and old alike.

The congregation sang heartily to the accompaniment of the band and the occasion succeeded in both lifting the spirits and preserving the solemnity of the occasion for regular worshippers.

The event was seen as most successful by the representatives of the Children's Hospice South West, the charity benefiting from the event. All admission receipts, along with the takings from the coconut sheet, plate smasher and Penny Arcade were donated to the charity.

Children's Hospice South West supports two hospices, Little Bridge House in North Devon and Charlton Farm at Wraxall, near Bristol. A video presentation was in operation throughout the event outlining the challenging work of the charity.

Your chance to really become part of it: The Trust is intending to expand the displays in the original building and build several new features and walkways. The Trust needs your help to achieve this and is inviting you to become a part of the museums fabric. For a donation of as little as £50 you can have your name or a message carved into a brick that will be built into the museum.

A fresh approach to marketing paid off handsomely on the Sunday, with many locals visiting for the first time, in response to advertising in the local press and on local radio.

A popular return visitor was Brian Wells and family with their well known 89-key Gavioli Organ. Brian also brought along his 1949 Showman's living wagon, which was described as a travelling museum of the year.

Pete Philips made a most welcome visit with the famous Anderton & Rowland Marenghi. In fine tune the latest addition to the library of music, La Mere, was greatly admired.

A line-up of gleaming showman's transport, which had taken part in the recent Scammell weekend was still on display, including the ex-Pat Collins vehicle. The A&R transport and the fine examples from Frank Edwards and Phil Vanstone were still catching the eye.

Mick Goulding was at the controls of the Super chariot racer Ark and Frank Edwards in the dodgem paybox - both rides being kept constantly busy. Plans are now in hand to get the Rodeo Switchback back in a condition for the public to enjoy.

Steam for the rides was provided by the Burrell "Rajah", owned by Clive and Marion Gibbard, the Burrell "Star", owned by John Dyke and John Atkinson's Burrell, "The White rose of York".

Visitors were fascinated by the two throwing games, Plate Smasher and the Coconut Sheet, now a rarity on the grounds. It was clear that many youngsters had never encountered such games before. The Penny Arcade was kept extremely busy, looked after by key man Martin. Again this was a source of fascination for many younger visitors.

The noisy thrills from Dave Seymour on the Wall of Death rollers were also enjoyed by many. Dave will be bringing his Wall to Dingles next year, when a special "Wall of Death Weekend" is planned.

There were many new model layouts present as well as old favourites. Dave Rees from Newport brought along his superb Chipperfield's Circus layout. Outside were two large scale model fairgrounds. Peter White of Penzance presented a row of exquisite models, based on Peter's youthful admiration for Whitelegg's fairs in Cornwall. Arthur Dyke had his ever increasing layout to the fore. Barry Ratcliffe was on a return visit with his splendid model of the A&R City of Plymouth Waltzer prominent on his layout. Terry Norman presented his gallopers along with model Scammell - and Gerard and Jesse Pole had their usual display.

From Redruth in Cornwall Michael and Peter Simmons brought along their Vintage Steam Rally layout in a glass display case. Regular exhibitor, Jim Greenwood, presented his impressive traction engine made from card. Jim has very generously made an engine bearing the Dingles name on the side of the canopy, to be raffled in aid of Trust funds. An impressive number of tickets were sold, and the draw will be made at the Christmas carol service in December.

An impressive fourteen Scammell vehicles were in attendance, including seven of the famous Showtracs.

A great surprise was to see Anderton & Rowlands Showtrac John Bull. This machine was delivered to Barnstaple Fair in September 1947 and is still owned by the firm, although it was retired in 1983 .

The other Showtracs on display were Russell Cooks, HAU 964 (new to Henry Armstrong in 1946) and the Highwayman tractor unit, Demetruis (ex-Anderton & Rowland), now owned by Steve Shea of St. Austell.

Phil Vanstone's Highwayman,Illustrious, made a welcome return to Dingles alongside Frank Edwards' Enterprise and Moonraker. Derek Hallett's well-known chain drive, Gentle Giant, was also on show along with the most attractive 1920 Brayshaw living wagon.

The event reunited the two ex-Pat Colins Showtracs the Leader, owned by Alf and John Biddall, and the Major owned by Russell Cook.

The Leader was purchased by showman Pepper Biddall in 1989 and a full rebuild undertaken. It had stood on display at Barry Island Amusement Park for many years, having been retired in 1966.

Two awards were presented during the weekend, for which judging was not an easy task. The Roger Austin Memorial Shield, for the best turned out Showtrac, was awarded to Tommy Benson's vehicle, with Mike Harris accepted the award on Tommy's behalf.

The second award The Vintage Spirit Trophy for a Scammell, other than a Showtrac, was awarded to Kevin Gamlins' Chain Drive, Supreme (ex-Rogers of Chipping Sodbury). This cup was accepted by Dave Langley.

Following the judging, a convoy of Scammells left on a road run to Okehampton Railway Station. Those taking part included Showtracs Gladiator, Dragon, The Major, The Benson Showtrac, the Highwayman's Demetrius, Enterprise, Moonraker, Illustrious, the Chain Drives Gentle Giant and Supreme. After a somewhat eventful run the vehicles returned around teatime. On Sunday, a less ambitious route took the Scammells to nearby Roadford Lake.

The weekend was also used to launch Barry Browns book,'The Working Scammell Showtrac,' which has taken twenty six years to complete.

The Fairground Heritage Trust encouraged Barry to complete and publish the very detailed work and the final photo selection and layout was undertaken by New Era Publications.

George DeVey of Anderton & Rowland gave an introductory speech at the launch and recalled when he and cousin Albert Smith went to Watford to collect the firms first Showtrac 'The Gladiator' in 1946, returning to the fairground at Exmouth.

George described his Showtrac as, 'more like an old friend than just a lorry.' George said how much a part of the West Country fair scene they were for many years, with A&R running three, Joe Rowland one (City of Bristol) 'and Arthur Whitelegg with City of Exeter.

George concluded, by thanking all the Scammell owners for coming along to the event and congratulated Barry Brown on an excellent effort with the book.

Greeting visitors upon arrival on Saturday was the Dingles Steam Collection's 1924 Garrett 6nhp Portable engine, kindly steamed by Jim Young. On Sunday, Clive and Marion Gibbards', ex-Bostock & Wombwell Burrell ,'Rajah ', was in steam.

Terry Norman has been making scale models of Scammell's, including Showtracs for many years, and it was entirely appropriate that these splendid works should all be on display at the event.

Regular Jim Greenwood was present with his excellent card models of traction engines. Ian Tressler displayed his 1/24 Scammell road train model as well as paintings. Models were displayed by David Wilson with the superb Moonrocket, Tom and Ian Lydford, Reg Williams, Arthur and Adam Brown, Arthur Dyke, Gerard and Jesse Pole. Always of great interest to visitors is the work of wood carver, John Fenn, who was working on a galloper horse.

It would be hard to imagine back in September 2005, when Ramon Henderson and Sir William McAlpine cut the first turf, in preparation for constructing the new Museum building, that just eighteen months later, the Society's AGM would be held on the splendid Edward's Dodgem track. Those visiting for the first time were most impressed with the sight of the Edwards Dodgem track, Super Chariot Racer Ark and Skid, built up in all their glory, in addition to the Rodeo Switchback and many other artefacts previously in storage.

Chairman Jack Schofield sent his apologies, as he was operating his Ashley Steam Gallopers at Bridgemere Garden Centre in Cheshire. Simon Harris also apologised for his absence for similar reason, Simon was open at Iron Bridge Gorge with his amusements. In Jack's absence, the Chairman of the FHT, Richard Sandercock, was called to give the opening address. He commenced the official proceedings by welcoming the members to Dingles and gave a brief update on progress.

Richard paid tribute to the way the Edwards family had looked after their equipment and marvelled at how Frank Edwards was able to locate and build up the contents of the packing trucks as if the contents had been packed away just the week before. Richard went on to say that the FHT was now being managed proficiently but extra finance was vital to ensure future development. But, Richard, concluded, the portents were all good for the future.

Stephen Smith, publications officer, said the Society was pleased, for the second year running, to be able to support the FHT and a cheque for £500 was presented to Richard by Hayley Johnson. As a gesture of appreciation at inviting the Society to hold the meeting at Dingles Honorary membership was conferred on Richard. Frank Edwards was also awarded honorary membership for the important part he had played in the progress of the FHT, and in particular his expertise at building up and running the rides.

Treasurer, Kevin Scrivens, was pleased to be able to report a healthy balance sheet for the Society, to such an extent that it had been possible to produce the Manders, Shows and Menageries book, and distribute this free to members, as well as finance the publication of the George Kilvington Fairground Photographs and Notes, under the banner of the Society.

Kevin said that The Platform magazine, at the current 40 pages, cost no more to produce than the former 24 page publication some years ago. Sales officer Hayley Johnson was also happy to report an increase on sales in books and other merchandise, as well as an increase in membership. During any other business a suggestion from the floor that the Platform be produced monthly, brought an understandable look of discomfort from the editor, and it was explained that this was not really practical.

Concluding the formal business members were treated to rides on the Ark, with Frank at the controls, which was being steam-driven specially for the event, thanks to John Atkinson who brought his Burrell White Rose of York for the meeting.

It was pleasing to see so many local people visiting the Fairground Heritage Centre and making favourable comments about the recent expansion.The refurbished shop and café did good business and the home made cooked to order meals were certainly well appreciated. Henry Chipperfield and family once again catered for those outside the new building.

After a few teething troubles with the Dodgems everything ran smoothly and a timed opening system ensured the possible running of both the Dodgems and the Ark over the weekend. Power for the Dodgems was provided by the A&R Showtrac 'The Gladiator', and the Ark was steam-driven by the ex-Bostock & Wombwell Menagerie Burrell Locomotive, 'Rajah'.

The Fairground Heritage Centre was delighted to welcome the Devon and Cornwall Standard Car Club, who presented a splendid line up of various models of the famous marque from the 1920s to the 1950s.

Margaret Cook made a welcome return with her magnificent Ruth organ and model makers and exhibitors were well represented. Amongst them were regular exhibitors Jim Greenwood with his card models of superb quality; Terry Norman with his large scale Showtracs, Chain drives and A&R Ark model.

Gerard and Jesse Pole had their usual display, as did Arthur Dyke with his ever expanding layout. A newcomer was Hull-based Ron Summers, with a fairground model layout that included the Edwards machines - and Barry Ratcliffe was on a return visit with his excellent models

Chris Russell brought along an interesting photographic display and Martin Burridge had a wide range of photos on sale. Aubrey and Debbie Tummon their range of DVDs, videos and photos and T.D video's new DVD range was available in the Museum shop.

Of great interest to visitors was the work of local carver John Fenn, currently working on a galloper horse, while a finished painted horse was on display.

Other weekend highlights were Phil Vanstone's smart line up of fairground transport and the Plate Smasher and new Hook-a-Duck stall - both of which enjoyed good patronage.

The festival was organised by Ian Rogers of F.O.P.S. and a wonderful variety of instruments was in attendance.

Greeting visitors to the festival were the Rogers family's 92 key and 31 keyless Leachs, both positioned in the car parking area. The 92 note was built by David Leach with over 560 pipes and 20 registers; it uses a duplex system, so that 72 key music can also be played. The 31 keyless is an early example of a Leach organ, built in the style of a Limonaire. Both organs have recently moved to Cornwall with the Rogers, having previously been based in the East Midlands.

Mike Green's 42-key Verbeeck was positioned just by the main entrance. This organ was appreciated by the many visitors choosing to eat al fresco.

From Redruth, Robbie Richards brought his superbly presented 87 key Limonaire. The trailer in which the instrument is displayed was hauled by a very smart Atkinson tractor.

Behind this was an interesting line up of transport, starting with Phil Vanstone's ex T.Whitelegg ERF City of Plymouth and Scammell Illustrious, other Scammells were the Heal family's Rocket and A&R's Showtracs, Dragon and Gladiator.

Once part of the Rogers' Gallopers, Kevin Gamlen's superb 89 key Gavioli travelled from the Bristol area.

Of interest to many, although not currently playing, was the 89 key Verbeek ex-Edwards' organ owned by the Fairground Heritage Trust and displayed in the centre of the Rodeo Switchback.

Ray Bryan of Poole presented his 69 Keyless Dean, built in 1994. Built to the Wurlitzer 165 note scale, this plays on a roll system.

Bob Essex presented two instruments from his collection; his 200 note fully chromatic organ "King Soloman" works on a 7 channel midi system, and created a great deal of interest with many of the visitors. Bob also demonstrated his ingenious mechanical Bag pipes - not something you are likely to see very often!

Originally a pipe dance organ installed in a Dutch café, the De Cap 'The Iron Man', presented by the Spencer family, was displayed in an open trailer.

A sweet-toned Alan Pell instrument was brought down from the Midlands by the Gosling family. This 30 keyless Pell was built in 1994, and was played in the new Fairground Museum building throughout the event.

Local Radio presenter James Dundon presented his 31 keyless Bitsa; this stood at the entrance to the new fairground gallery .The owner has done an excellent restoration on the organ, purchased in 2003.

The third instrument presented by the Rogers family was a 20 note Stuber, German hand turned organ.

The Sandercock family's 35 key Limonaire is on permanent display.

Ray Bryant presented a 38 key Leach/Waltham hand turned organ

Also on display in the old building was the magnificent Compton cinema organ currently being restored by the Tamar Valley Organ Group.

The festival got the season off to an excellent start and centre played host to its first coach trip of the season, when the vintage Bedford OB, The Sussex Rambler, called in en route for Cornwall.

Plans are already in hand for the second South West Organ Festival, to be held in 2008 - dates will be announced in due course.