Full Steam Ahead

Organisers have nine engines confirmed for October 26 and are hoping to persuade another owner to steam into town and take the "fleet" into double figures for the golden occasion.

Littlehampton is the only one of the Sussex bonfire celebrations to include steam engines, and chief parade marshal John Burchfield told the Gazette: "It's going to look quite spectacular.

"We have a range of engines, including showmen's, road rollers, steam lorries and agricultural engines. Some of them will be lit up and it gives the night a really magical feel.

"The engine drivers love coming here because of the reaction they get from the crowd, and the experience of driving past 60,000 people."

John's children Lauren, 10, and Scott, 14, are pictured on a showman's tractor, Katrina, built in 1917 and now owned by Mr S. Maggs.

Among the three steam rollers rumbling through the streets will be a 1925 Aveling and Porter, Cuchulainn, and there will be two steam lorries.

Brian Sismey will be attempting to win the Ted Burchfield memorial cup, named after John's father, for the third time in succession, with his 1923 eight-ton Robey steam tractor Shamrock.

Sponsors Ockendens Garden Centre, Page Group, H. D. White, Benton Weatherstone and Philip's Hairdressing have covered most of the cost of the engine drivers' expenses, but more support would be welcome. Telephone John on 01903 730667.