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This Reading Gypsy Wagon or Vardo as it is better known was possibly built by Dutton of Reading in 1894. It's hard to tell as it was in a very poor state when Carole Ambridge bought it at the Dorset Steam Fair in 2000. She and her husband have restored it. Carole says it shows how the pace of life has changed and gives an insight into the Romany way of life. Even though there's very little space it is described as a Gypsy Palace. Everything is gilded and shiny and the best cut glass used as well as Crown Derby china. Everything is steeped in superstition. If a dog licked the plate it would be smashed rather than washed and used again. All cooking is done outside.