ADVERSE weather conditions did not dampen the mood on Saturday as a buoyant crowd gathered to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Trevithick Day on the streets of Camborne.

This special day is in honour of engineer Richard Trevithick, a pioneer who is credited with transforming mass transportation as well as helping to enhance the mining industry in Cornwall.

Trevithick was the inventor of the high-pressure steam engine that was first used to power the Puffing Devil road locomotive up Camborne Hill in 1801.

Throughout the day visitors were able to get up close to an impressive entry of steam, stationary and miniature engines that were on display and taking part in the parade.

A poignant moment during the parade, which began on Basset Road, was the sight of steam engines passing Trevithick’s statue at the front of the Passmore Edwards building.

Many of those on board their machines could be seen saluting the great man as they passed through the packed crowds that were lining the pavements.

The streets were a hive of activity as market and food stalls, accompanied by plenty of live music and dance, transformed Camborne as visitors enjoyed their day remembering one of Cornwall’s most famous sons.

Performing on the town square main stage, one of four music stages hosting music, included Bryher’s Boys, the RAOST Singers, Kerrier Male Choir, St Dennis Ukuleles, Children’s Entertainer Tarquin and Carn Brea Morris. 

Entertainers and theatre groups all helped enhance the atmosphere during the day’s proceedings while the fairground at the Rosewarne car park provided children with entertainment. The town also hosted a wide range of indoor exhibitions to boot.

Classics cars and agricultural vehicles also made their way onto Camborne’s streets, including 1905 white steam racer ‘Whistling Billy. Vintage buses were on hand to ferry passengers into and out of the town centre during the day.