ST HELENS legend Johnny Vegas was a surprise guest at the Museum of Transport's family fun day over the weekend, showing fans around his treasured glamper van.
Johnny's van, Patricia, from the Carry on Glamping TV show, was one of the vehicles on show at the museum on Saturday, December 4 and Sunday, December 5, which had artisan markets, food stalls and fair rides set up next to their collection of vintage vehicles.
The museum, based on Hall Street in the town centre, put on the festive fun day to provide a festive treat to local families and, by raising funds, keep the centre in operation.
As well as their usual showcased vehicles, which include old-fashioned modes of transport such as buses, trams and horse-drawn carriages, the centre hosted Johnny's van, a full size Lightning McQueen from the film Cars, and vintage Christmas buses that will drive guests around the town.
In addition to this, there was also a "huge" Artisan market with independent craft and food stalls at the event, as well as an indoor Silcocks fair with fairground rides and other festive activities such as Father Christmas in his grotto.
As families enjoyed the activities on the Sunday, they were given a shock as Johnny turned up to the "delight of everyone", sticking around to speak about his van and generally engaging with the people of St Helens.
As the museum is ran by volunteers, they hoped for a successful weekend to ensure they can continue opening to the public.
Sheila Rigby, who helped to organise the event, said: "St. Helens rose to the occasion young and old alike, to attend. Even in the horrendous weather on Saturday.
"The Artisan and craft market delighted the crowds, and Angels with painted faces sent the kids home delighted with their Christmas faces.
Sheila also wanted to show her gratitude to all the volunteers and those who helped put on the attractions for the weekend.
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