Stevens Fun Fair back this week in Cassiobury Park, Watford

Stevens Fun Fair, which has operated in the town for 70 years and attracts thousands of people, has been spotted pitching up ahead of opening on Saturday, May 27.

It comes after Watford Borough Council controversially stopped it operating at the park last year and said going forwards it can only be there every other year.

Stevens Fun Fair is pitching up in Cassiobury Park ahead of this weekend's opening. (Image: Stevens Fun Fair)

Organiser Charmaine Stevens told the Watford Observer: “All of us at Stevens Fun Fair are so looking forward to returning to Cassiobury Park, Watford, for what used to be our annual visit. 

“We have a great line-up of new rides – The Giant Star Flyer, The Extreme, and Super Trooper – with many other great attractions including favourites for all ages.”

Entry is free and it will operate daily between 1pm and 9.30pm until Sunday, June 4.

Stevens Fun Fair did not operate in Watford last year as it feared alternative local venues offered by WBC would ruin such a large event.

The event in Watford attracts thousands of people.

• Stevens Fun Fair: Backlash over Cassiobury Park decision
• Stevens Fun Fair told it can't open in Cassiobury Park this year

At the time, WBC councillor Tim Williams said the impact on the park’s natural habitat had to be considered, as well as giving new organisations the chance to hire the park.

Speaking ahead of Stevens Fun Fair’s return, the organiser reflected on “a lifetime of happy memories spent in this great park”.

“Our annual visit always coincided with my birthday and I remember celebrating my 21st at Cassiobury. 

“As a child I particularly remember riding the train which is still delighting families taking rides at the bottom of the park. I also used to love the annual horse show.”