Burton-on-Trent, Staffordshire: Funfair Ride Builders Told to Build Aircraft Hangers
George Orton initially was a wheelwright and coachbuilder. Charles Spooner was a woodcarver. Both were based in Burton-on-Trent. The two firms worked together from 1894, and were referred to collectively as Orton and Spooner. Between them they made helter-skelters, switchback rides, elaborate carriages and scenic railways.
In 1914, the government requisitioned their works. During World War One they made portable aircraft hangers. They were chosen for this work because of their expertise in building portable wooden structures.
The company finally closed for business in 1977.
Today a road in Burton is named after George Orton.
Location: George Orton Court, Burton-on-Trent, Derbyshire DE14 2PD
Image: George Orton Sons and Spooner Ltd works, courtesy of National Fairground Archive
Duration:
This clip is from
Featured in...
![]()
Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio Derby—World War One At Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ
Places around Derby that tell a story of World War One
![]()
War in the Air—World War One At Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ
Zeppelin raids and aviation heroics
More clips from World War One At Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ
-
![]()
The loss of HMY Iolaire
Duration: 18:52
-
![]()
Scotland, Slamannan and the Argylls
Duration: 07:55
-
![]()
Scotland Museum of Edinburgh mourning dress
Duration: 06:17
-
![]()
Scotland Montrose 'GI Brides'
Duration: 06:41
