Rtn. Tony Jackson recently brought along a visitor to our Rotary Newton Aycliffe club night, John Culine MBE, who gave our members a fascinating insight into fairground culture going back hundreds of years. John, from Spennymoor, is a Showman and his talk entitled ‘Fanfare to Funfare’, revealed posters and photographs illustrating his family history from the 17th century to the present day.
500 years, from street entertainment to circus to fairgrounds, the background of his family goes back to the time of King John with tales of a Royal Charter, high wire artistes, a performance for Queen Victoria and, commendably, getting involved in the war effort by raising money for 12 ambulances during The Great War and a Spitfire funded for World War Two.
What an amazing story John related and it was obvious the telling brings him great pride. To book him for a presentation at your event, function etc., please contact us for further details.