Hull Fair hosts 'UK's tallest' star flyer ride

The UK's tallest fairground ride has arrived at Hull Fair for the first time, rising 270ft (82m) above the city.

The Big Ben Tower, which previously operated in Skegness, will head to Hong Kong after its debut in Hull.

Owner and designer Perrin Stevens said: "I chose Big Ben because we're British, it's patriotic and who doesn't like Big Ben?"

The attraction weighs about 180 tonnes, is held together by more than 300 bolts and consumes the same amount of power as a small village, according to Mr Stevens.

The star flyer ride was designed to withstand severe weather conditions.

"It can operate at up to 42mph (67km/h) wind speed, and it can withstand 120 to 130mph (209 km/h) winds at the top before we have to dismantle it. So it's very robust."

Mr Stevens, who grew up visiting Hull Fair with his family, still constructs the rides alongside his crew.

"If you want a job done you've got to do it right, haven't you?" he added.

The Big Ben Tower has been built in part of the fairground known as "Scotch Corner," run by the Taylor family, who have been bringing rides to Hull for almost 60 years.

David Taylor, 69, described the fair as "better than going to Tenerife on holiday," while his cousin, Douglas, called it "very social".

David owns several attractions, including The Bomber, The Waltzer, The Miami, the Bungee ride and the Twister. "They're all mine," he said proudly.

The family travel the world with their rides.

"We go to Iceland every summer, have done for 35 years," David added.

"We've done most of the Caribbean countries and New Zealand. We'll go where there's work, that's what the big rides are about."

Douglas said being a showman was a "good life," despite plans to retire at 60.

"It can't be classed as work if you enjoy it," he said.

Hull Fair opens at 17:00 BST and will run until Saturday 18 October.

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