Excitement builds for Lego extravaganza (From Swindon Advertiser)

Excitement builds for Lego extravaganza

6:24pm Wednesday 26th September 2012 in News By Katie Bond

LEGO fanatics are preparing for a model weekend next month when the Great Western Lego Show comes to town.

The annual extravaganza, which takes place at the Steam Museum on October 6 and 7, will be a day to remember for families and anyone who enjoys the world of Lego bricks.

One of this year’s highlights will be a working wheelchair, built by Simon Burfield after a bet with a friend who said it couldn't be done.

He built a Lego wheelchair out of 6,000 Technic and Mindstorms parts, including six NXT microprocessor units, 12 motors and 12 wheels made by Australian company Rotacaster, a specialist in multi-directional wheels, which are the only non-LEGO components in it capable of moving a 90Kg human being It will be making its first public appearance at GWLS.

“I am really chuffed, I am glad it worked,” he said.

“There have been attempts, but nobody has actually managed to move a human being before.

“I am the first person to be able to do it, and that is really cool. I am genuinely happy with how this has gone.”

Fans can check out the video on YouTube by searching Lego wheelchair to see it in action.

Each year, the show also features unique models that have been built exclusively by Lego fans from the UK’s Brickish Association.

Firm favourites will include the country’s largest Lego train layouts with a variety of steam and diesel locomotives, scenery, bridges and stations.

Other highlights this year will include an interactive building where visitors can help the Brickish Association create a gigantic Lego mosaic and help design shops. There will also be competitions, a Brick Cafe and more.

It is not just about the displays either, with children of all ages being encouraged to get building, with plenty of Lego play tables at the show.

They will also be invited to help build a giant mosaic over the weekend and the result will be displayed on the show’s website.

The show will run from 10am to 5pm on both days and entry is £10 for adults, £8.50 for children and concessions. A £35 for a family ticket which includes two adults and two children, or £40 for two adults and three children is also available.

For further information, contact Steam on 01793 466637.