A showman who has been entertaining the crowds at a Norfolk museum for more than 30 years said he’s “heartbroken” after being served an eviction notice by the attraction owners.

John Benifer, who started offering vintage fairground rides at Bressingham Steam Museum near Diss 35 years ago, has been told he must leave the site before March 1 amid what management describes as a “refresh” of its attractions.

Although he’s never had a formal contract with the museum - and as such no stipulated notice period - Mr Benifer said he feels “deeply hurt” by the short notice he’s been given to vacate.

He said: “This place has been my home for more than half my life.

“I’ve poured thousands of my own money into renovating some of the unusable areas, not to mention my time.

“When my wife died a few years ago I still came into work every day and put on a smile for our visitors.”

The museum, whose collection of steam trains has been pulling in visitors since the 1960s, said the decision had been made following an assessment of all its attractions.

A spokesman added: “The museum regularly reviews which third parties we work with to ensure that the museum continues to refresh and evolve around its core values of operating live steam exhibits in a variety of forms. 

Eastern Daily Press: Bressingham Steam Museum has been operating since the 1960sBressingham Steam Museum has been operating since the 1960s (Image: Newsquest)

“Our volunteers and staff are busy currently preparing for an exciting 2024 season starting on 28 March which will include new additions to the play area for disabled children, events to a wide range of tastes, and a variety of new displays showcasing our unique collection”.

While Mr Benifer said he accepts the museum is within its legal rights to end his tenancy, he said it was a sad end to an otherwise happy partnership.

He added: “Giving me two months' notice is callous.

“It's given me no time to find other work for the season, and feels unnecessarily ruthless.”