Full Steam to The Hoops
The whiff of steam, the clattering of chains, and the heavy drone of wheels, announced the annual Steam weekend at Bassingbourn’s Hoops public house.
Once again large crowds of enthusiasts, and people from far and wide supported this charity fund raising event, the sixth that landlord, Russell Woolaston, and local steam engine enthusiast Clive Flack, have jointly organised, with sponsorship from Royston and District Round Table, The Bedfordshire Steam Engine Preservation Society, and the Norfolk Loco Works.
Mr Flack said ” Since we initially started the event in 2013 it has gone from strength to strength. Last year we raised over £4,000. After paying for the Bassingbourn annual pensioners outing, we were able to donate a WW1 Memorial Bench for the village, paid for a new strip for the Bassingbourn Football Team, and contributed to the Help Ethan Fund. This year’s event was our best to date with a wonderful diverse collection of classic steam vehicles, from early rollers, and agricultural exhibits to steam cars, a wonderful offering of scaled down model steam lorries, and pride of place, a beautiful showmans fair ground engine from Godmanchester. We are still receiving donations for the event, but we will be announcing the result as soon as possible.”
The oldest engine, Bostin, an Aveling Porter road works roller, dated from 1911, whilst a Fowler Timber Tiger Tractor was celebrating its 100th birthday.
Currently an amount exceeding well over £3,000 has been achieved with donations still being added.
The Auction, and raffle which raised £1,796 took place in the afternoon, both containing a profusion of exciting items, donated by local businesses, and individuals. £1, 310 was collected for the local pensioners outing. Next year’s event is already being planned.
