This is just a 'While we're waiting for an official announcement' thread for your merriment triggered by accidentally coming across this film on YouTube.
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I used to love going to the fair. Loads of people, the smell of diesel mingled with fried onions and candy floss. The sound of the latest records played distortingly loud almost overpowering the laughter and screams. For me a fabulous atmosphere - especially at night of course.

Mitcham Fair was my favourite. I'd try to be there on August 12 to see the Mayor open it with the giant golden key and announce that first rides for the kids were free.

I always ran to the Speedway for my ride, like the dodgems only a figure of eight track and 'Strictly No Bumping'. Failing that the Dive Bomber was another favourite. There were so many great rides like the Octopus, Paratrooper, Waltzer and Whip. Not to mention all the sideshows.

Fairs don't feel like they have the same magic these days. I suppose it's an age thing and the rides are much more technically advanced. Also don't attract crowds like they used to.

Anyway, I bet plenty of you enjoyed the fair like me and had your favourite rides - the thing is. What were they?

Dad and I watched games standing on the muddy slope of the Holmesdale Road end. He cheered and I rattled.

The rotor at Battersea was brilliant. It was like a giant washing machine drum which went round at speed and then the floor dropped away. Everyone stuck to the wall by centrifugal force.

The girls used to put on quite a show as they slid down the wall when it slowed down. I'm told.

I remember being on the Waltzers and all the money falling out of people's pockets. Then the carnie kids were running around the center nicking it all.

Red and Blue Army!

Nothing beats the Dodgems. A massive thank you to Billy Butlin.

Palace since 19 August 1972. Palace 1 (Tony Taylor) Liverpool 1 (Emlyn Hughes)

The managerial merrygoround!