102 steam rollers took part in the GDSF 2013 Roller Special, on a brand new road created in the road making section at the event. This smashed the previous record of 32, which was also held by the Great Dorset Steam Fair.
The world record attempt has been officially acknowledged by Guinness World Records Ltd and one of the independent witnesses was Colin Tyson of Old Glory Magazine, a well respected figure in the steam industry.
Great Dorset Steam Fair Managing Director Martin Oliver, said: “Wow, what a sight! We are so privileged to be in the presence of so many beautiful engines and to have broken the world record is just phenomenal. I would like to personally thank everyone involved as well as all our visitors, without whom we could never have achieved this triumph.”
Some of the requirements for the world record attempt were:
- All vehicles had to be standard steam rollers with a heavy roller used for smoothing road surfaces
- All vehicles participating in this world record attempt must be moving
The attempt featured a unique range of steam, petrol and diesel rollers from the leading manufacturers throughout the history of road rolling. As well as examples from the more common manufacturers, there were also those on show from the rarer makes of roller with some even attending from abroad.
Managing Director Martin Oliver says: “We would like to thank everyone for their support at this year’s show. We’ve had a fantastic week, the weather’s been brilliant and it’s probably one of the best events we’ve put on in the 45 years of the Steam Fair. I’m sure my Dad would have been really proud of the show this year, particularly the Roller Special Display. I look forward to seeing you all again in 2014.”
The Michael Oliver Memorial Cup for the Best Exhibitor was presented by Martin Oliver to Graham Atkinson of Burbage, Leicestershire, for his 1932 Aveling & Porter motor roller which was featured in the Roller Special Display. After receiving the award, Graham said: “I never thought I’d get anything like this. I’m over the moon and chuffed to bits. I really do feel quite emotional.”
