One of the best-known of all Rushden personalities, Mr. Thomas Essam, whose “amusements” have been one of the town’s most popular attractions for the last 14 years, died on Wednesday. He was aged 58 years and had suffered from heart trouble for the last 12 months.

Mr. Essam (“Tommy” to all who knew him) was born in Kettering. He became a travelling showman about 40 years ago, and for many years had winter quarters at Coventry. Fourteen years ago, however, he moved his winter quarters to Rushden where for many years his stalls stood on the piece of land now occupied by the “Ritz” cinema. Everyone in Rushden at one time or another visited the brightly-lighted attractions of “Tommy’s,” and the children especially looked forward to the “gift nights” when boxes of chocolates and other delicacies were distributed.

When the “Ritz” was built, Mr. Essam moved his stalls to their present pitch, which stands just off High-street, opposite Victoria-road.

Despite their sad loss, the staff hope that they will be able to continue their activities.

“Tommy” married about 35 years ago and he now leaves a widow, Mrs. Martha Essam, and a daughter, Mrs. Nellie Johnson.

The funeral will take place at Rushden on Saturday morning.