Charles Heal the Showman
A talk by Terry Sheppard

Step into the colourful world of travelling fairs as local historian Terry Sheppard explores the life and legacy of Charles Heal (1879–1921), one of the West Country’s best-known showmen.

From humble beginnings as an ironmonger in Glastonbury, Charles Heal went on to build one of the South West’s most successful fairground businesses. Discover how his spectacular steam-powered rides, bustling fairgrounds and family enterprise delighted generations of visitors across the region.

The talk also looks at the famous 1935 Jubilee Fair and 1937 Coronation Fair on Bristol’s Durdham Downs, which attracted record-breaking crowds, as well as the thrilling Moon Rocket ride that became one of the sensations of the 1930s. You’ll also hear about the Heal family’s charitable work, their contribution to wartime fundraising, and how their fairground legacy continues through later generations of West Country showmen.

The evening includes a unique film produced by the Bristol Film and Video Society, bringing this fascinating chapter of local history vividly to life.

📅 Wednesday 12 August
🕢 7.30pm
💷 £4.50 (includes light refreshments)
📞 Please call to reserve your seat.