Bon Accord Steam Engine Club

Like many organisations around the country, the Bon Accord Steam Engine Club has been forced to postpone this year’s steam fair due to coronavirus restrictions. And it’s doubly difficult for members, as it was set to be their golden jubilee event.

However, rather than completely cancel, the club has decided to push their 50th anniversary celebrations to next year instead.

The Golden Jubilee Steam Fair will now take place on Saturday and Sunday, June 19 and 20, 2021 at the club’s home at Castle Fraser, Sauchen, and will feature a whole host of things to see and do for people of all ages.

Chairman Sam Barrack explained: “The Bon Accord Steam & Vintage Fair has grown over the years to become Scotland’s largest steam fair. 

“On show will be magnificent Showman’s Engines, historic road rollers, steam wagons, steam cars; classic and vintage vehicles, tractors, stationary engines, model engines, miniature steam engines, traditional fairground organs and fair ground rides – and farm working exhibits – a baler, stone crusher and saw bench.

“Music provided by Granite City Brass and the Kintore Pipe Band.  A range of trade and craft stands and family entertainment. In all, over 500 exhibits and an expected audience of about 4,000 over the weekend.”

The club is now working to make their jubilee celebrations the biggest and best yet.

“People travel from all across the country and from all parts of the UK to be part of the fair – we’ve even had people come down from Shetland in previous years.

“We can’t wait to welcome visitors and exhibitors to next year’s event.”

The first ever steam event organised by enthusiasts was held at the Beach Boulevard, Aberdeen in 1969 – it was just a small gathering on a Sunday afternoon. Following this the Bon Accord Steam Engine Club was formed by a group of Aberdeen businessmen and steam enthusiasts to preserve an interest in steam road vehicles. 

The first official rally was held at the Bridge of Don, Aberdeen in 1970 at the site of what was the Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre. It moved to its current venue at Castle Fraser in 2004.

Entries for next year’s event are now up on the club’s website, along with news and updates.

For more information visit www.bonaccordsteamclub.co.uk