The first coach party will descend on Fred Dibnah’s former home in Bolton tomorrow.
Doncaster-based Steam4 Fun.com — the world’s only supplier of miniature, working Fred Dibnah model engines — has organised the trip for 49 steam enthusiasts who will be given a guided tour of the house in Radcliffe Road by owner Leon Powsney.
Mr Powsney bought the house and opened it as a heritage centre earlier this year and has since seen visitors flock from all around the country to see the late TV steeplejack’s old work yard.
He said: “We are really looking forward to welcoming the first coach party because it is a big thing for us. We have quite a few booked in over the next few months so it is all coming together.”
Since opening his doors in June, Mr Powsney has had a steady stream of visitors booking the fascinating tours, which give a real glimpse into the working life of Fred, who passed away in November 2004 after a battle with cancer.
A number of Fred’s friends, including close confidante Alf Molyneux, spent hours restoring the yard after Mr Powsney and his wife, Jan, snapped it up at auction last March.
They spent more than 12 months battling with council planning chiefs — and neighbours — before seeing their dream of creating a lasting memorial to Fred come true.
Mr Powsney said: “It has been a very testing time, but things are going well. We spent a lot of time and money on the place so, obviously, coach parties, such as the Steam4Fun one on Saturday, do help us.
“I am still in love with this place and I have never regretted buying it.”
The centre, which is open to pre-booked £12 tours every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday, has the backing of Fred’s widow, Sheila.
At the opening in June, she said: “Fred spent 38 years working in this yard and it is just a magical place to be. It feels like Fred is here and I hope it is a real success.”
Anyone interested in taking a tour of Fred’s yard or in volunteering, should call Mr Powsney on 07801 255486 or email freddibnah tours@live.com
(source)
Alf Molyneux sounds more Lancastrian than even Fred. Where is he from please?
Hello Damien,
Alf is a Bolton lad born and bred – just like ‘OUR FRED’. Alf has worked all his life in the coal industry as a miner, and is now a regular visitor to ‘Fred’s Place’. Many of you meet him on your tours of the yard, and like Fred, Alf is easy going and approachable.