The Golden Age of Motoring Sale '1886-1939'

This rare 1930s 'showman's road locomotive' from the final days of steam will be top of the bill at The Golden Age of Motoring Sale '1886 to 1939' on 30 October.

The 1932 Fowler 'B6' Super Lion, known as 'The Lion', estimate £800,000 – 1,200,000, was one of just four showmans road locomotives built by agricultural engineers Fowler for the West Country Showman Troupe Alderton and Rowland. The Lion powered the popular fairground ride of the period, the 'Super Noah's Ark'.

With advice from Sidney Harrison of Burrell, the foremost manufacturer of these machines, Fowler's quartet were among the most sophisticated showman's road locomotives ever constructed, incorporating many of the popular Burrell designs.

The ornately painted locomotive has been restored in recent times and today is in regular use, with frequent appearances at steam rallies where it continues to thrill the crowds as it did in the 1930s and will no doubt cause a stir when it arrives at the Bonhams saleroom in New Bond Street.

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