Mart opens in King’s Lynn amid tensions behind the scenes
The King's Lynn Mart opening 2013 - The Bishop of Lynn John Meyrick and Mayor Geoffrey Wareham take a ride. Picture: Matthew Usher.
By Doug Faulkner
Thursday, February 14, 2013
5:46 PM
All the fun of the fair was on show as the King’s Lynn Mart opened today.
But there were tensions behind the scenes as the row simmered on over reducing the number of days the fair can operate.
On the eve of the first anniversary of the death of Lowestoft toddler Rio Bell, who died after being hit by a car near the fair, crossing marshalls were patrolling on King Street, where the tragedy happened.
Campaigners called for the roads around the fair to be closed and collected a 5,000-signature petition. But West Norfolk council ruled out the move.
Last night Paul Macey, who held little Rio’s hand as he lay at the roadside, said closures were the only way to ensure children’s safety around the site.
“I’m going to be going down there on different days, at different times, to monitor what’s happening,” he said.
Earlier, the fair was opened with speeches by the Mayor of West Norfolk, Geoffrey Wareham, David Wallis, president of the Showmen’s Guild, and a prayer from the Bishop of Lynn, Jonathan Meyrick.
“It’s wonderful to be back. There is a strong sense of connection to King’s Lynn and the people are very receptive to us,” said Mr Wallis. “It’s the people’s fair, not the showmen’s or the council’s, and we appreciate that. This is one of the most prestigious fair openings in the country. It is my first time as president so it’s very special. The problems with the council, I’m sure, will be resolved with a bit of good will on both sides.”
After the speeches and prayers a number of dignitaries took to the dodgems. The Rt Rev Meyrick said: “I think these things are so important.
“I think the having of fun and innocent family enjoyment and entertainment that comes from fairs like this is really important.
“I love the dodgems. I managed to bump the High Sheriff and he bumped me, so honour was satisfied.”
Ian Monson, Chairman of Norfolk County Council, said: “This is a total love affair for me. I was born and bred in King’s Lynn, I used to come as a child.
“I love it and would like to see it for as long as it can possibly be allowed.”
This year the Mart runs until Sunday, February 24, when it moves on to Wisbech.
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6 comments
Tried to paste the link and EDP wouldn't allow it - what's new? Look for it on change.org
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Honest John
Friday, February 15, 2013
http:www.change.orgen-GBpetitionsstop-the-borough-council-of-kings-lynn-west-norfolk-shortening-the-2-week-annual-kings-lynn-mart
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Honest John
Friday, February 15, 2013
Here is the link please sign and share to show your support, all the best Harry Overton http:www.change.orgpetitionsstop-the-borough-council-of-kings-lynn-west-norfolk-shortening-the-2-week-annual-kings-lynn-mart?fb_action_ids=325228034264294&fb_action_types=change-org%3Arecruit&fb_ref=__pJPShzXvjR&fb_source=timeline_og&action_object_map=%7B%22325228034264294%22%3A207750669371321%7D&action_type_map=%7B%22325228034264294%22%3A%22change-org%3Arecruit%22%7D&action_ref_map=%7B%22325228034264294%22%3A%22__pJPShzXvjR%22%7D
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Terry Tibbs
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Some of us still have faith in King's Lynn, and traditions such as the Mart are of historic importance.
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Localgirl
Thursday, February 14, 2013
The Mart perfectly sums up Kings Lynn- A run down slum hole!
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dave123
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Can someone put up a link to the petition to keep the Mart on the Tuesday Market Place please? For over 50 years I have loved going to the Mart-whether it was a case of persuading a parent or going in a gaggle of mates or as now driving a "fair "distance to enjoy it. Surely every West Norfolk person has enjoyed it at sometime or another-who can forget discovering the louder the screams the faster the waltzer gets spun? The market place setting has to be unique and make for a special atmosphere -great when it happened to be on the school doorstep! Now move ins and slick fly boys are trying to put an end to hundreds of years of Lynn tradition, capitalising on one very rare accident caused by inattention . Stand up for your traditions Norfolk people, stop our county being turned into a bland shopping centre by the greedy who don't give a damn about us. Paul Macey is wrong The mart did not cause the accident-inattention caused the accident.Generations of kids have attended the mart with no problems.Small kids should be on reins if parents cannot keep hold of their hands.
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Daisy Roots
Thursday, February 14, 2013