The 800-year history of Ashby Statutes
By Grace Kennington 10th Sep 2025
Statutes funfair will be returning to Ashby on Friday 12 September for the 807th year.
Despite its modern flashing lights, electronic machines and loud music, Ashby Statues has a long local history.
In 1219, Ashby Statutes was officially started by a Charter of Henry III.
Festivals like this were traditionally held at the end of harvest as a hiring fair for domestic servants and farmworkers to be hired for the year.
The fair gradually started to change, transforming fully the end of the 19th century when it was taken over by Pat Collins Funfairs.
When Pat Collins Funfairs took over in 1899, they already had an established business running funfairs in the Black Country.
Pat Collins was the president of the Showman's Guild of Great Britain between 1920 to 1929, before going on to pursue politics, eventually becoming the Mayor of Walsall in 1938, and then the Liberal MP for Walsall in 1922.
Pat Collins Funfairs is still running the event, now owned by Anthony Harris.
According to Councillor Tony Gillard, Portfolio Holder for Business and Regeneration at North West Leicestershire District Council, 'Ashby Statutes is a much-loved annual tradition that draws visitors from near and far to enjoy its vibrant fairground rides and attractions.
'It's a highlight in Ashby's calendar and plays a big part in showcasing the town as a welcoming destination for families.
'We're excited to see the town centre come alive with the sights and sounds of the fair once again.'
This years' Ashby Statutes will run between Friday 12 September and Tuesday16th September in Ashby's Market Street, Brook Street and Bath Street.
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READ MORE: Road closures in Ashby Town Centre this week for Statutes
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