Carters Steam Fair to cease touring this year

Carters Steam Fair, which visits Croxley Green and Hemel Hempstead, released a statement revealing it is trying to find a permanent site for the fair, and a new buyer to take it over.

Originating in 1977, the steam fair has been a staple of life in communities in the south of England for over 30 years.

Run by Joby Carter, the son of founders John and Anna, the collection of rides and side stalls makes Carters the largest travelling vintage funfair in the world.

The fairground is due to visit Boxmoor Common in Hemel Hempstead twice in June, as well as The Green in Croxley Green in September, but this now looks to be the last.

Joby said: "After much consideration and research, we have taken the decision that this tour will be our final tour. We are looking for a permanent home and a new owner for the fair.

"As private keepers of heritage, we have invested thousands of hours over the years to ensure that these rides could be enjoyed by so many. The interest in the fair and its unique artwork has never been higher. We had a bumper year in 2021 with over 100,000 visitors and we expect to see even more visitors in 2022."

But Joby says "with great success comes great responsibility".

He continued: "As a family run business with expertise in restoration and travelling the fair, we have done our best to familiarise ourselves with the endless details of planning laws, highway regulations and heritage and culture grants. But it is an enormous task that we simply cannot do alone.

"We are now facing the reality that the best future for the fair is for it to be re-homed on a permanent site and operated by someone else. I’m confident that the next owners can share in this success but for us as a family, it’s time to pass the baton and let someone else continue the magic."

Joby added: "If you are thinking of visiting us this year, our 2022 tour will carry on as planned to each location we have published. Please take as many photos and videos as you can and make some lovely memories with your family. Tag us in them using #Carters2022 so we can be a part of the fun. We can’t wait to see you!

"We are always so amazed by the support we have from our fans: your loyalty and enthusiasm is always incredible. You can help us by sharing this post so we can raise awareness and help the fair find its forever home."