Puffing Billy by Ron Gilbert

What a delightful and unique effect from Ron Gilbert. Ron Gilbert was a prolific British children’s entertainer, inventor, and manufacturer based in Bournemouth, best known for the practical, hard‑working props he produced under Ron Gilbert Magical Exclusives. From the late 1950s through the early 2000s he created a wide range of colorful, durable children’s effects that became staples for UK family performers. His work combined simple mechanics with strong routines, making his props favorites for working kids’ magicians. It works well but things are a little snug to vanish the parts so you have to place them quite precisely. But it is certainly possible. This is made from wood, and cardboard and is pretty solid. It looks really good from a small distance and the final engine is solid enough to even be handled by the children, but I wouldn’t have them play with it. I just like the idea so much and I think the patter and little engine would be a big hit for younger children. _EF Puffing Billy A superb NEW children’s effect. Big railway engine 12″x5″x3″ finished in red, black and gold falls to pieces to a good logical storyline. Slowly the engine Is taken to pieces, six wheels, three parts of the cab, boiler, base and funnel … yet within a second when the children say the magic word the engine is completely restored! Yes solid model that can be freely handled. It’s a really great story line, lovely prop, and comes complete with all you need to work this straight away