To many traction engine admirers and enthusiasts great and small it is the ‘aristocrat of steam.’
Aside from the history and heritage which defines it, its mighty presence and ability to power fairground rides makes it more than a distant yet pleasurable memory, and for those lucky enough to own one it is the stuff of dreams.
It certainly didn’t take Phil Pettinger long to take the plunge – the opportunity to own the iconic Burrell showman’s engine in miniature proved too great, and prompted Phil to part with his beloved Burrell he’d purchased previously.
Incidentally, it was the initial purchase of the 4in single-crank two-speed 7nhp Burrell traction engine he purchased after seeing it advertised while on a work assignment in Scotland, that acquainted Phil with the work of John Rex. He’d met John while visiting a traction
