So much to enjoy at the fair - even if you don't like the big rides

ATMOSPHERE AND TRADITION DRAWS CROWDS TO THE FOREST

- By LYNETTE PINCHESS

HUNDREDS of thousands of funseekers are set to descend on Nottingham's Goose Fair - one of Europe's biggest travelling fairs.

For some of the crowd, it's on their doorstep, while others will be travelling from far and wide for the tenday extravaganza, which has its history rooted in 1284.

The mix of tradition and the excitement of new white-knuckle rides will bring crowds flocking to Forest Recreation Ground for the annual fair, which opens today and runs until Sunday, October 5.

William Percival, chairman of the Showmen’s Guild in Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire said: “People travel from all over. Ihave seen people there from Scotland, both the showmen and people who go round all the major fairs. A lot of people come as tradition - they have always done it”

While hoping for a bumper turnout, the showmen are conscious of visitors not having as much cash to splash this year. Mr Percival said: “We have not increased the prices at any of the fairs this year so I think the majority at Goose Fair will be very much like last year. People haven't got the money.