In probably the hottest July on record many showmen enjoyed long sunny, hot evenings at their grounds with increased visitors to the fairs. On some grounds, although the sun was pulling people outdoors to the fairs, they weren't parting with their money.

At the start of the month, the 150th Alva Highland Games took place with a Tuesday open rather than Wednesday. Another change in the line up saw only 2 regulars at the fair, Justin Codonas Waltzers & Batemans Rock'O'Plane, and 3 machines on first time visits these being Alex Colquhouns "Road to Hell" Rollerghoster and Jensen Codonas Skydiver & Miami. Also on at the same time, Beverage Park in Kirkcaldy played host to George Irvins fair in support of the Balloon Festival. This was a large fair with a few rides rarely seen in the area - Graham Johnsons rare Skid and James Herchers Twist were both situated at opposite ends of the ground, bothe getting their fair share of riders. William Hancocks Orbiter visits quite a few Scottish fairs and it was open here too, offering a different ride to the public as Orbiters are rarely seen in Scotland since Gavin Stirlings "Megatron" was sold. The ground was very quiet when I visited on opening night, but hopefully trade would have been better at the weekend.

Mid July saw the attractions at Burntisland peak for the Highland Games on Monday 17th. Warren Taylors Jumper was one of the Star Attractions making its debut at the fair and making the machine the first of its type to be open there. Usual rides such as Wheatleys Telstar Wheel, Sedgwicks Superspin and Thomsons "Trailblazer" Superbob all make the fair a very good day out for all the family. Although numbers were up on last year and the sun was out, some showmen had said their takings were just slightly up on last year.

Up North, and the annual fair at Rathven took place although in the rain, it didnt stop the riders enjoying what was described as a more family orriented fair. No new Bomber this year but still plenty of other rides to choose from. Also up north, Aberlour, Aboyne and Inverness are all due to hold (or have held) their fairs.