Helsinki authorities burst the summer dreams of Sam the Soap Bubble Man

Everyone loves bubbles. The bigger they are, the better. When Sam Wilson, the Soap Bubble Man, starts his work in Helsinki Meripuisto, children run towards him with arms raised. Dozens of children move in the evening sunshine. They laugh and scream as Wilson creates flurries of soap suds. Happy parents clap and smile at the bubble making maestro. Wilson hears this sound wherever he goes. He travels around Europe to share his skills with children everywhere.

The Londoner says he came to make some fun in Finland. It is his first time here. He says the first week was lovely with great weather and great people.

Priority of fun

Making sure everyone has fun seems to be his main motivation. Filmmaker Nick Turpins filmed him on London South Bank four years ago. It was clear then that enjoyment was his number one priority.

The city intervenes

This seemed like a fantastic addition to Helsinki summer life. Then the Soap Bubble Man shared a sad story on the side of the grass. Wilson had been camping by Sompasaari next to the free sauna and between two willow trees. Last Monday he went shopping and returned to find everything he owned gone. The culprits were not thieves. The City of Helsinki took his things. Wilson was left without his equipment, his tent and his food.