Rollers steams into Woodvale Rally

Rollers steams into Woodvale Rally.

A 1916 steam powered roller will be among the attractions at this year’s Woodvale Rally at Southport’s Victoria Park next month.

The eight-ton roller, known as the ‘Pendle Witch’ and now owned by Graham Townsend, who is 27 and lives in Marshside, Southport, will be on display at the event on June 17 and 18.

The roller started its working life for Morecambe Urban District Council (UDC) and finished its time with Walton Le Dale UDC in 1969. It was then bought by well-known preservationist Tom Varley, of Gisburn, and used to construct his caravan site at Todber. It was sold to Alan Mountfield in 1986, who first kept the roller at the Steamport Railway Museum in Southport (now Asda).

The roller was used until 2006 when it failed its boiler test. It then sat unused for six years until Alan sold the roller to Graham and his friend in 2012 as it required major restoration. This took four and a half years, the restoration work alone costing nearly £15,000 and was completed in April this year after thousands of hours work.

We will be driving the roller to the show under its own steam from its base at Johnson’s recovery in Banks on the Friday afternoon before the rally.

Graham says: I’m so excited to be able to bring the roller to Woodvale. Being from Southport myself I’d like to support the rally as much as I can.”

Peter Wood, Woodvale Rally general manager, added: “We are absolutely thrilled that this steam powered roller is able to attend the show. It’s such an amazing looking roller and the restoration work has been fantastic. It’s sure to attract the interest of visitors.”

With tickets costing just £6 for adults and £4 for children under 15, the rally offers a great value for money, fun filled day out for all the family

This year organisers have secured a wide range of live performances from local bands from 11am to 5pm on both days with a guest appearance from X Factor finalist Ray Quinn on the Saturday. The popular Mike and The Sunrockers have also confirmed, as have The Jaywalkers .

The Liverpool and District Model Aircraft Society (LADMAS) will have ‘planes flying on both days.

Classic and vintage car entries are also ‘motoring’ in and the Army will be attending with a display of heavy recovery vehicles.

The popular Crazy Bears will be there again as will the West Lancashire Dog Display Team, which will be performing twice a day.

Jema Leopold will also take to the main arena with her amazing performing horses.

Other attractions include giant slides, craft and food marquee, giant car boot, collectors fair, Morris dancing and numerous trade stands. .

Parking at Princes Park is £5.

For further information visit www.woodvalerally.com or email info@woodvalerally.com