Children's 2019 takeover at Ellenroad Engine House

Ellenroad Engine House's second ‘children's takeover’ day was a resounding success on Sunday (7 April).

The sun shone on the Hyndburn Hooters, who brought several birds of prey including a very popular little owl, a peregrine falcon and a Harris hawk. Children and adults alike had the opportunity to hold the birds and learn about them.

Inside the main hall, The Star Tree Studio provided owl-themed crafts with many of the children showing their finished owl masks to the owls outside.

 

 

Manchester Balloon modeller Jeff was on hand knocking up all manner of balloon creations including Spiderman and unicorns, whilst face painter Julie created amazing animals on lots of faces.

The Ellenroad engines were in full steam throughout the day with volunteers on hand to explain how the engines worked to the fascinated children.

Zoe Attwood, Ellenroad chair, said: "This was the second children's takeover event we have held, and it was lovely to see so many new faces.

“It was wonderful to be able to explain all about the engines and the history of the museum to the children. We kindly thank Pennine Township and P N Daly for their support for the event, meaning we could provide the additional activities at no cost."

 

 

The museum opened in 1985 to ensure the preservation of Ellenroad Engine House and engines. Although the mill was closed in 1982 and its buildings later demolished, the engine house, steam engine and the boiler house chimney were all retained and maintained.

In 2011, the historical attraction was singled out for the ‘Heritage Award’ at the North West in Bloom Awards. 

The first ‘children’s takeover’ was held in 2018.

• www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/117653/childrens-take-over-day-at-ellenroad-steam-museum

The award-winning engine house opens the first Sunday of every month and is next in steam on Sunday 5 May for its classic and vintage vehicle show.

The engine house is run entirely by volunteers. New volunteers are always welcome in an array of functions from hands on fixing engines to manning the gate on open days.

Admission is £5 for adults; free admission for accompanied children.

• www.ellenroad.org.uk