Yorkshire Amusements has shone a spotlight on the increasing cost of operating a heritage travelling fair, taking to social media to share how rising maintenance, testing, insurance, prize, fuel, rent and council fees combine to undermine profitability.

The post, which encourages people not only to support their local fair but also go further by using cash, draws attention to how much time, money and effort Showmen dedicate to keeping traditional funfairs alive, despite the sometimes-scant reward.

“Many thousands of pounds are spent, and even more thousands of hours are dedicated, and the return is never guaranteed or highly profitable,” said Yorkshire Amusements. “The British weather and rising costs (as well as a little old fashioned mentality from time to time) are our worst enemy.”

“Disheartening as it is, over half the events we bring some magic to, result in us leaving in the rain late at night, tired, mucky, with enough change for a cup of tea and pie, and many sighs and questioning.”

Despite the challenges, and the promise of more to come, Yorkshire Amusements added “the funfair never stops, and we keep moving forward doing what we do best.” 

And they ended their message with a plea: “Next time you see us or any local funfair, come and have a chat, spend a couple of pounds, have some fun and give your children the same memories you enjoyed growing up, we’re here today, gone tomorrow!”