The Wilson name has been seen on fairground rides at the Abingdon Fair for well over 100 years. William Wilson ,Roundabout proprietor, got a mention in the Abingdon Herald on 26th October 1895.

The Fairground maintenance vehicles and the dodgems have the name of one of William Wilson’s descendents Bob Wilson Funfairs Limited.

The bigger rides of the funfair have been set up today. The fair stretches from the market along the length of High Street and Ock Street. We sometimes boast that the Abingdon Fair is the longest street fair in England.

The Fair always opens at or just before the 11th October. This evening was the traditional fair service with a few hymns at the Galloping Horses (Carousel). Before that the fair manager, together with local councillors and officers, and emergency service representatives walked the length of the fair to check last minute details.

Everything needs to be set up with precision. The rides get placed very close to the buildings but entrances and exits need to be left free. Here you can see: Orbiter next to China Diner at the end of Ock Street.