Celebrations as steam roller turns 100 years old at Bressingham Steam and Gardens

Nearly 2,000 people celebrated a special birthday at the weekend when a steam roller turned 100 years old.

Buster the steam roller was one of the first pieces of machinery acquired by Adrian Bloom, the founder of Bressingham Steam and Gardens.

He was given pride of place at a bank holiday weekend event, held over three days, to celebrate his centenary.

Ten other steam rollers from around the region joined the party.

Buster was made by Burrell & Sons, of Thetford, in 1924.

“It was a great weekend with around 1,900 people coming along to celebrate Buster’s birthday,” said general manager Phillip Rooke.

“Adrian bought his first traction engine in 1961 and Buster was one of 13 other pieces he bought shortly after.

“We are holding steam-themed events every year for the August bank holiday, with this the latest.

“We also hosted a variety of steam rollers which are privately owned across the region and had road-making displays with associated machinery.

“During the three-day event we also had all three of our narrow gauge steam railways open, and the gallopers roundabout, which people always enjoy.”

The museum was open during the weekend so people could also view the other steam rollers in the Bressingham collection, Boxer and the Robey.

Upcoming events include a Rover Car Rally this weekend, a craft fair on September 8 and a model railway show on September 22.