Newcastle Hoppings to have fewer rides due to Town Moor weather damage

The Hoppings is gearing up to begin next week, but this year will see some changes to the beloved Newcastle event.

The fairground will return to the Town Moor on the 21 June marking 142 years since the first fair.

However, the weather has left the Town Moor weather damaged meaning there has been a slight reduction in the size of The Hoppings with only 90% of all attractions in place- it remains the largest travelling fair in Europe.

And for the first time this year, the fair will include a 60m high big wheel- the biggest mobile travelling wheel in Europe.

As well as the giant wheel, visitors will also be able to enjoy another first - the only XXL white knuckle ride in the UK.

The ride – the ultimate experience for thrill seekers – has a G force pendulum and swings up to a height of 47m.

Although some of the smaller rides and a handful of food stalls may not be present this year, The Hoppings still retains its title as Europe’s largest travelling fair and will still include live musical entertainment every day and a special kids club.

The fair will be opened by the Lord Mayor of Newcastle on Friday 21 June and then will begin its ten day stint, with a later opening until 9pm on its final day.

Ryan Crow of Crow Events which organises The Hoppings, promises that nobody will feel disappointed.

“Because of the damage done to the Town Moor through the terrible weather last year, we have had to rethink slightly for this year,” he said.

“We have done our best to ensure that the majority of rides and attractions will be in place as usual and we will still have absolutely tons on offer for everyone.

“We have had to make a very minor reduction in some areas because of the challenges caused by the rain last year and it’s knock on effect to the moor, but as far as we’re concerned it’s absolutely business as usual.”