IT TOOK 3-YEARS TO BUILD BUT THIS SPECTACULAR GYPSY WAGON HELPED BRING YOUTHS FROM DIFFERENT BACKGROUNDS TOGETHER

The three year project led by Dave Eccleston and involving members of the Salford Irish Traveller Community, Salford Children's Services and Salford Community Leisure - has led to the creation of a spectacular traditional Bow Top Gypsy wagon constructed in the distinctive style pioneered by renowned Leeds wagon builder Bill Wright (1844-1909). A man who is considered to be one of the finest wagon builders of all time.

The 12 feet long (3.6 metre) ‘vardo’ took 3-years to build and is decorated with traditional paints and furnishings, but the project was so much more than just its construction, it built strong links between the diverse community groups who worked upon it.

Over 20 young travellers and non-travellers from a wide range of backgrounds were involved in the project, in which they worked together under the guidance of a local Irish Traveller master craftsman, learning from his wealth of skills in traditional wagon making that have been passed on through generations to him and now passed on to a new generation.

Additionally the project allowed the youths to explore the unique minority heritage which is often misunderstood and maligned, the programme immersed them in the tradition, culture, heritage and identity of the Irish traveller community.

The group gained Duke of Edinburgh awards and volunteering accreditation for their work on the wagon which cost just short of £50,000 to complete.

Technicians from Pendleton Together's repairs team were involved in giving the wagon its finishing touches and the wagon has already been exhibited at Salford's Museum and Art Gallery and over the coming years it will embark on tours of local schools, libraries and will feature at local community events.

The 'Traveller Wagon Project' was part of the 'Young Roots exhibition' funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund with a grant of £49,300 which was awarded back in 2015 and organised by Salford City Council’s children’s services.

What they have created is nothing more than a thing of beauty but more importantly the project has helped to bridge the divides between Salford's communities and taught traditional skills to a new generation.

Photos: Pendleton Together, Salford Council, Salford Community Leisure

Main Photo: David Eccleston