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Our Family History
Our family history dates back to medieval times, as far back as the 1200s. What began as street entertainment evolved into travelling sideshows, later known as side stalls - the foundations of modern theatre and fairground attractions. In those early years, our ancestors travelled from town to town and through local villages by horse and cart, bringing entertainment wherever they went.
As The Industry Developed
As the fairground industry developed, so did we. From Horse Drawn Carriage to steam-powered rides, evolving to fuel-driven engines and now silent running generators and modern vehicles of today, we have continually evolved with the times. For generations, our family has proudly brought funfairs to East Anglia, combining tradition, experience, and innovation to create memorable events.
Our Families Past to Present Royal Heritage
Our family is also extremely proud to have had the privilege of welcoming Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, along with her daughter Queen Elizabeth II, to the family home during their visit to King’s Lynn Mart in 1953. During this memorable occasion, they spent quality time together, enjoying tea and cake and sharing conversation, around our Great Uncle Herbert Grays' living wagon - a moment that remains a cherished part of our family history.
Wartime Legacy “All the Fun of the Fair”
During World War II, our family, alongside fellow showmen and the wider travelling community, proudly supported the national war effort through the Showmen’s Guild of Great Britain.
In 1940, the Guild launched a fundraising appeal to demonstrate the showman community’s patriotism and commitment at a time when fairs continued to operate at home, helping to maintain public morale.
The appeal successfully raised over £5,000, enabling the purchase of a Supermarine Spitfire Mk Vb, proudly named “All the Fun of the Fair” (also known as “The Fun of the Fair”).
The Spitfire, bearing serial number W3764, was donated to the Royal Air Force and went on to serve with Polish fighter squadrons, including No. 303 and No. 315 Squadrons, during the Battle of Britain and in later operations.
This remarkable achievement stands as a lasting symbol of unity, generosity, and national pride within the showman community. The aircraft itself survived the war and later served as a ground instructional airframe. Today, the Showmen’s Guild of Great Britain continues to honour its members’ contributions through its Roll of Honour at the National Memorial Arboretum.
The Supermarine Spitfire was the only British fighter aircraft produced continuously throughout World War II. With more than 20,000 built, it played a vital role in Britain’s air defence. Today, only around 60 remain airworthy worldwide, making each surviving Spitfire - including “All the Fun of the Fair” - a powerful and enduring symbol of history, sacrifice, and national pride.