Wyndham Park roller restoration could be complete this year

WORK is on schedule for the restoration of the road roller on which children played in Wyndham Park for 36 years .

Two years ago, Swindon businessman Peter Tye, took delivery of the machine and assisted by a boilermaker and engine restorer, plans for the original aims were drawn up in 1999 to be met, and plans for the full restoration this year.

The  1922 Aveling and Porter 8 ton C type, which was presented to the town in 1963 by Eddison Plant, having reached the end of its working life, was rescued by a local engineer from the scrapheap in 1999.

The eight-ton roller had become a popular feature in the play area where children enjoyed  clambering over it.

But it was removed following an injury to a child who fell from it. An SKDC spokesman said it was difficult to defend any court action taken by parents and it was removed for scrap.

It was taken to the Alexandra Road depot awaiting recycling.

It was initially rescued by Tim Harris, who took it to his workshop and set about restoration hoping for help from other enthusiasts.

He said although he stripped it down and various parts were inspected, he could not go ahead with restoration until he was given the official ownership of the machine.

This finally arrived from South Kesteven District Council in 2010.

Mr Harris said: “That was only after I sent them a bill for £16,500 and offered to deliver the heap of parts to their depot.”

Although historically Grantham had many companies making boilers, there are almost no skilled boiler-makers left in the area. Mr Tye has the expertise at his disposal.

Mr Harris said: “Pete is making good progress, the boiler is well on the way, they are just making the new barrel, then it will be ready for assembly.

“Other parts have been cleaned and painted, and they are starting to make a new tender.”

When complete, the roller will be based  at Swindon, although Mr Tye is willing to bring it to Grantham for special events, at the event organiser’s expense. .

He is spending quite a large amount of his money to complete the restoration, a fairly substantial five figure sum, way in excess of that envisaged in 2000.

Mr Harris said: “Had we have been aware of the full extent of the costs at that time, it would have ended up as scrap, as the council originally proposed.”