OrganFax

Exciting new organ venue

News posted on the 7th May 08

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 new 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 Sunday open days and weekly Wednesday afternoon tea dances, played by ex Tower Ballroom, Blackpool Organist - Kevin Grunill.

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 a ride 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). Dancer's will be able to trip the "Light-fantastic" every Wednesday from 25th June. 1pm-4pm (Doors open 12.00). Admission £4.95 and £3.00 (under 12's).

Regular Sunday Open Days will take place every Sunday from June 29th (except 3rd, 24th&31st August). Opening times are 11am-5pm. Admission £5.50. (under 12's - £3.00).

Tickets can be purchased in advance for both the opening weekend 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