Wall of Death rider still chasing thrill after 50 years

The deafening roar of engines, the smell of petrol and the thrill of danger. For Ken Fox, the Wall of Death is not just a crowd-puller, it is a way of life passed down through generations.

"I've been at it 50 years now," he said. "But before me, my parents were doing it and my grandparents. So we go back to 1931."

Based in Ely in Cambridgeshire, Fox is still riding the vertical wooden wall at shows across the country, including the Royal Cornwall Show, which starts at Wadebridge on Thursday, where his team has been a fixture for 27 years.

"Yeah, I still do it. I love the thrill of it. I love entertaining the public," he said.

It is a family affair in every sense. His sons Alex and Luke now ride alongside him, keeping the tradition alive for a new generation.

But the spectacle comes with real risk. About a decade ago, Fox was seriously injured during a show.

"Once or twice. About 10 years ago, I came off here and they airlifted me to hospital."

The crash was caused by "a mechanical failure", underlining the reality behind the daring stunts performed just inches from the crowd.

"This is not a magic act, you know, it's not an illusion," he said. "This is a real life risk and thrill."

Despite the danger, families keep coming back, often making it part of their own traditions.

"We've been entertaining generations of people that come back and come back. They bring their babies for photographs, and then the babies bring their babies."

Fox believes the show offers something rare, a proper shared experience away from screens.

"When you come and see the wall of death you go away very pleased with the money you've spent and everybody goes away happy."

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