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NRS NL 61-2 first published April 2016

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Published by Norfolk Railway Society, 2018-12-14 13:03:54

NRS NL 61-2 Mar-April 2016

NRS NL 61-2 first published April 2016

Norfolk Railway Society

Founded 1955 www.norfolkrailwaysocie ty.org.uk
Volume 61 No. 2 Mar/April 2016

_________TRACK REPORT

news from railways in and around Norfolk

National Network

GE LINES UPDATE: March

GE LINES NEWS
Disruption to GEML weekend services until
10th April:
Network Rail announced that services between
Norwich and London would be disrupted every
weekend between 10th February and 10th April
with a 4 day blockade over the Easter period.
Ingatestone has been the terminating point for
services with replacement bus services
provided between there and Newbury Park for
Underground connections to central London.

“U” 2-6-0 31806 heads towards Weybourne during the NNR’s Steam Gala
These blockades are enabling further overhead on 4th March (Mike Fordham).
line renewals together with other Crossrail-

related works.to be undertaken between of the single runs. The Railway Magazine reported that 4
Shenfield and London. passenger-carrying vehicles would form the train but

Class 37 Charity Train: whether the stated Mk4s will appear is debatable!

As a fund-raiser for the East Anglian Children’s Hospice Musical East Suffolk Line services:
(EACH) AGA are promoting a top-and-tailed Class 37 Promoted by the ESL Rail Partnership, on Saturday 26th
special on 30th April to run from Norwich to Ely and return March one coach within the 1325 Beccles to Ipswich and
and then a return journey to Liverpool St retracing some of return 1517 ex-Ipswich services had musical
the routes used by the 37s (notably 30A and 41A based) in accompaniment provided by the group “Solana”. Whilst
the 1960s and 1970s. Tickets, limited to 200, were priced at other lines (and heritage lines) have provided such musical
£60 each with participants able to bid for a cab ride on each entertainment for several years this is the first recorded

In This Issue occasion of on-train live music on main line services in East
Anglia.

Track Report

National Network 1 Thetford Goods Shed:
In association with the redevelopment of the former Up side

Heritage, Narrow-Gauge & Miniature 3 Goods Yard area (west of the station) the former Grade II
listed 1845 GER Goods Shed was noted recently being

Away from the Tracks 4 converted for new uses – probably residential.

Pick-up Goods 5 Attleborough:
13 AGA have replaced the coping stones, laid tactiles,
NRS News resurfaced both platforms and tidied up the exterior of the
14 main building on the Norwich-bound platform.
Feature 15
Ponder’s End station level crossing 1961 (Rod Diss mystery shopper survey:
Lock) News must be thin on the ground as AGA proclaim that they
Working Timetable are flushed with success by achieving a 100% score from a
mystery shopper exercise for the enhanced w.c. facilities
and train information at Diss station!

1

_________TRACK REPORT

Stowmarket: its historic (part National Express) livery. This year 90006/7/8
AGA are refurbishing the station toilets on the Down platform have been overhauled and repainted. All DVTs now carry the
to make them DDA compliant. AGA white livery.

Stanway Sidings: 90034 in DBS blue livery remains on hire to supplement the
The former sidings site situated on the Up side of the GEML AGA 90 fleet.
near MP48 between Colchester and Marks Tey, last used
more than 20 years ago for the storage of withdrawn EMU GE INCIDENTS
bogies, is in the process of being redeveloped for The following details can only represent a small sample of
residential purposes. the incidents occurring given that your scribe is not a
subscriber to the daily Control Log!
90001 – 90015:
90003 currently represents the only AGA Class 90 to retain 2nd February: A signal failure disrupted Norwich – Cromer
line services from about 1000. The 0945 ex-Norwich was
Norfolk Railway Society terminated at Hoveton and the 0944 ex-Sheringham
(Founded 1955) terminated at Gunton. All services after the 0945 from
Norwich were cancelled until the 1445 which reached North
President: Ken Mills, Esq. Walsham a mere 23L. The 1545 was cancelled and the
1645 departed on time but reached North Walsham 80L.
Committee and Officers 2015-2016 Telephone The next two hourly departures were similarly delayed. The
2245 from Norwich departed 17L and regained 2 minutes to
Chairm an Brian Cornwell North Walsham! A bus service shuttle ran between North
Walsham and Cromer/Sheringham.
Vice Chairman Ray Halliday
10th February: The 1300 Norwich – Liverpool St worked by
Past Chairman Peter Cooke 90009 terminated at Colchester because of an on board
safety systems fault with the 1530 Liverpool St - Norwich
Secretary & Andrew Wright starting from there.
Web master
A 20mph speed restriction has been imposed on both lines
Treasurer John Laycock over the Long John Hill bridge structure now scheduled for
replacement at Christmas 2016.
Memb ership Sec Mike Handscomb
12th February: A bridge strike, believed to be in the Trowse
Newsletter Editor & area, about 1020 brought services to a stand for about 20
Indoor Programme Edward Mann minutes. The 1030 Norwich – Liverpool St was cancelled as
a result.
Pub licity & External
15th February: Over-running engineering works between
Events Chris Mitchell Bethnal Green & Ilford led to the cancellation of the
0600/0625 Liverpool St – Norwich and the 0830/0930 return
Indoor Programme Graham Kenworthy s ervices .

Show Day Organiser Peter Willis The 0652 Norwich – Liverpool Lime St encountered animals
on the line near Shippea Hill and was terminated at Ely 84L.
Non Committee

Archivist Ray Meek Loss of signalling between Elmswell and Bury St Edmunds
occurred about 1245. The 1220 Ipswich – Cambridge
—----------------------------------------------------------------------------- reached Bury 90L and the 1244 Cambridge – Ipswich which
passed Kennett RT arrived Bury 91L. The first passenger
Norfolk Railway Society Newsletter services which ran thereafter were the 1550 Ely – Ipswich
Editor: Edward Mann (which dep RT; 34L at Bury; 46L at Stowmarket and 55L at
Ipswich) and the 1620 Ipswich-Cambridge was the first
Layout & Picture Editor: Andrew Wright Down service.

Distribution: Graham Smith A fatality at Romford completed a day to forget. The train
involved was the 1810 Liverpool St – Norwich which passed
Please contact Graham if the next edition does not arrive Shenfield 138L. In reaction the 1700/1730 services were
by the end of the month of publication. terminated at Shenfield and the 1800 departed Colchester
2L; passed Shenfield 50L and reached Liverpool St 68L.
Opinions expressed in any articles are the author’s and
should not b e taken to represent those of the Society. 16th February: A track fault closed platform 2 (the main Up
Next issue published 2nd June 2016 platform) at Ipswich for most of the morning with the train
Copy date: 26th May 2016 service thinned out in consequence. Passengers on the
0703 Stowmarket – Liverpool St had rare track as the train

2

_________TRACK REPORT

used the Up through road as the service did not call at and Peterborough compromised signalling during the
Ips wich! morning and no passenger services ran between
Peterborough and Ely. It is believed that arrangements were
The 0809 Norwich-Great Yarmouth and its return service made for Freightliner type services to pass through the
were cancelled due to a train fault. The 0840 Norwich – affected section as 3 services were noted between Bury St
Cambridge was cancelled as the incoming 0704 ex- Edmunds and Stowmarket heading for Felixstowe.
Cambridge was 44L.
16th March: The 0700 Liverpool St - Norwich terminated at
The 0830 Norwich – Liverpool St (and subsequent diagram) Shenfield because of a central door locking problem. The
was cancelled “emergency services with incident yesterday” train ran ecs to Norwich and the 0930 Norwich – Liverpool St
(Romford fatality). was cancelled in reaction.

26th February: A power supply problem between Whittlesea Peter Adds

Heritage, Narrow-gauge and Miniature

Images from the NNR’s Spring Steam Gala.

Clockwise from right:

43106 & 92203 Black Prince at Holt on 4th March (Mike
Fordham ).

4566 at Weybourne on 4th March (Andy Wright).

“Y14” 564 hauls the Quad-Art set towards Weybourne on 4th
March (Mike Fordham).

92203 Black Prince prepares to stop at Weyboune on 4th
March (Andy Wright).

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_________TRACK REPORT

Seek and ye shall find… Away from the Tracks

The East Anglian Air Ambulance Newsletter ranges far and A new railway museum in north Norfolk
wide, reporting on fund-raising activities, but railways don’t
normally feature. An Open Day was, however, held at the Most members will be aware of Walsingham station’s
former Barrington Cement Works in Cambridgeshire on 26th religious role after the trains stopped running.
September to celebrate the rebuilding of the Barrington Light
Railway, and pieces of the old railway were sold off as The passenger service between Dereham and Wells closed
souvenirs. The line has been restored by Cemex to serve from 5th October 1964, and a few years later a small group of
the old quarry, and the day raised over £1,600 for the EAAA. Russian Orthodox Church members rented the station and
There is film on youtube of an industrial loco hauling a developed it into a monastic community house, with part of
couple of brakevans but the loco’s identity is uncertain, the building forming St. Seraphim's church. The group built
though it looks like an Andrew Barclay. Can we be precise, various additions, including a minaret over the entrance and
please? an extension with round-topped windows which takes the
building to the platform edge.
Lynton & Barnstaple Progress
The old station is now operated by St. Seraphim’s Trust. The
Those of you who attended Charles Summers’ presentation Trust is taking steps to make the building, its iconography
about the Railway on 19th November (report NRS/NL 60/6 and railway heritage more accessible to the public through
p.6) may care to note that its 7 planning applications to displays and activities. It has also created an attractive
extend the line to Blackmoor Gate and Wistlandpound garden out of the adjacent ex-railway land.
Reservoir have been registered with the 2 councils and that
public consultation ran until 4th March. A room in the extension is used to display railway artefacts
and photographs. At the moment it can only be inspected by
Editorial Scrapings prior arrangement. I visited it in March. The exhibits consist
of a fairly random selection of railwayana, not all of which
Those of you who recall my images of the Brecon Mountain relate specifically to the station or the Wymondham - Wells
Railway (GERS, 25th February) might remember that line, but in one showcase there is a lovely GER pocket
questions were asked about the “pepper-pot” ventilation timetable, of a type I don’t remember seeing before. There
shaft adjacent to Pant station. This was from Morlais Tunnel are also folders of historic photographs, some of which
on the line from Abergavenny Junction to Merthyr, which illustrate local trains in the 1912 floods.
closed from 6th January 1958, and which ran underneath the
present car park. But the line didn’t close from one end to The road leading to Walsingham station follows the course
the other. The main portion from Abergavenny Junc through of the old line, and the southern terminus of the Wells &
to the western side of Morlais Tunnel (Merthyr Morlais Walsingham railway is just 200m or so away. The Trust
Tunnel Junc) closed from 6th January 1958 but the portion would love the narrow-gauge line to extend up to it and bring
from Morlais Tunnel Junc into Merthyr clung to a passenger more visitors - but there’s the small matter of crossing
service from Pontsticill Junc (on the present BMR) until that Egmere Road to get there. But if they can do it at
was dispensed with from 13th November 1961. Services had Sheringham, who knows?
been badly affected by what have been called “the cuts of
1958” – Government-imposed economies if you remember Anyone interested in seeing the railway exhibits can make
“stop-go” – and a glance at the timetable (about 5 trains an appointment by telephoning the Trust on 01328 820610
each way in 1955/56 down to 2 in summer or email [email protected] (Mike Handscomb).
1960) will show what happened in reality.
Pontsticill Junc finally closed to passengers
from 31st December 1962, when the line from
Brecon to Newport closed.

Abergavenny, incidentally, once had 3 stations –
Abergavenny Brecon Road, Abergavenny
Junction and Abergavenny Monmouth Road.
Brecon Road closed to passengers from 6th
January 1958, and Abergavenny Junction
followed from 9th June 1958, leaving Monmouth
Road (on the Newport – Hereford – Shrewsbury
line) open today, but bereft of its suffix. It’s worth
a visit if you like lower quadrant signalling.

Railways in and around Merthyr have a
fascinating history but I think I’ve continued long
enough.

The chapel today. The land opposite serves as a coach park and the old
good shed is used for agricultural storage.

4

_________PICK-UP GOODS

A miscellany of news and members’ contributions

Recently at the URC Hall “The North Norfolk Railway” (Trevor Eady,
General Manager, NNR – 18th February)
“Colombian & Ecuadorian Railways”
(Ken Mills – 4th February) Trevor has been at the NNR since 2009, previously having
been Director of Terminal & Customer Services at Norwich
Our new President, Ken Mills, took us to South America once Airport. His first love is probably aircraft, and he tried to get a
again, this time recalling two visits he made in 1969 & 1971, commentator’s job at Heathrow, but ended up in engineering
and on the way visited a sugar cane line in Puerto Rico. accounts. He was on duty when two major disasters
occurred in 1972 & 1974 and felt them both keenly.
Colombia’s capital, Bogota, is some 8600’ above sea level,
and the country’s topography has limited the country’s railway His railway credentials go back to watching trains at Surbiton
development; nearly everything runs north-south rather than and travelling to and from school on the Southern. He took
over the Andes. The gauge is 3’ and it was surprising that early retirement from Norwich Airport in 2005, and on the
much of the locomotive fleet was supplied by Baldwin NNR he has served as ticket inspector, qualified as a guard
(U.S.A.), with Skoda (Czechoslovakia) and then a few Belgian and as a DMU driver. He had been encouraged to apply for
and German builders making up the remainder. the GM’s job by its then incumbent, Hugh Harkett, and
presently works a theoretical 4-day week, but likes to get
On the Atlantic side, a line runs north to Santa Marta whilst on away in the family motorhome.
the Pacific side a line runs to Buenaventura. Considering the
gauge was 3’ many of the locomotives were very hefty eight- When Trevor took over, there were 127,000 passengers a
coupled types, though a 1927 Baldwin 2-4-2T was on display year – now the figure is 166,000. He encourages his staff to
at Flandes Works. Ken drew attention to an aerial ropeway be smart, and to talk to people. He has overseen the
(freight only) between Manizales and Mariquita, some 65 introduction of a 50 min. service (red & yellow timetables),
miles, and recalled a bus trip from Ibague to Armenia, another which allows 3-train running, and said the dining trains were
65 miles, over the 11,000’ Quindio Pass, not made at night for very popular. They have a fleet of 18 TSOs to keep clean.
fear of bandits!
Bad news has come with the revocation of WCR’s main line
I have written this account largely in the present tense to licence which has impacted upon their plans to run to Cromer.
reflect Ken’s descriptions of almost 50 years ago, but to bring Another operator is being sought. On the locomotive & C & W
readers up-to-date the position is not encouraging. The state- front, their boiler shop is expected to be finished in March.
owned company was “liquidated” in the 1990s, leaving the The bulk of the 45 or so paid staff is here.
country’s railways largely serving the country’s coal mining.
The only passenger trains remaining are the tourist services The “Thomas” event is very profitable, though not so popular
between Bogota and Zipaquira. with the operating staff. The “Dad’s Army” Day has been very
popular; the Beer Festival was also very popular – some
Quito, capital of Ecuador, is close to the Equator, but at an brews “ran dry” on the first day! A “Railway Children Week” is
altitude of 9350’. Its 3’6” gauge railway is a link from the main planned in August to coincide with a production at the Little
port, Guayaquil, to Quito (just over 300 miles) but first there’s Theatre; the 40s Weekend has also caught the imagination of
a ferry across to Duran, where the railway workshops are the town and, finally, they are hoping to have a “Home Fleet”
located. The slides suggested it was not a place to linger! Ken Gala (engines not ships) but the date has not been set.
had a 1937 brochure advertising the line – it took 1½ days to
reach Quito, inclusive of an overnight stop at Riobamba. This They have a pool of some 400 active volunteers and need at
brochure contained a charming note: “Train stops 25 min. at least 20-30 every running day. The NNR will also be taking
Huigra for luncheon” – shades of 19th century Swindon! over the operation of the Tourist Information Centre & public
conveniences, on top of which they have been able to
The railway needs to cross 3 ranges of the Andes and there purchase 92203 Black Prince.
is a gradient of 5½% (1 in 17) with zigzags (“the Devil’s
Nose”) after leaving Huigra, and Ken’s slides showed the Trevor had brought some images and made a few comments
railway had a strong American influence with what we would about locomotives: L99 – worked well until it began to leak;
recognise as early 20th century coaches with clerestory roofs 76084 – owners happy for it to stay on the NNR- it uses about
and end verandas. Steam was confined to freight work and, 2½ tons of coal daily; 5619 – reliable and heavily-used; 61264
sadly, two of the railway’s three Garratts had been scrapped. – had been “thrashed” on the main line and was unable to
The steepest parts of the line were worked by big 2-8-0s run; N2 – a reliable standby; and 4936 Kinlet Hall - first
whilst we also saw a 2-6-0 in a pleasing red G & Q livery. needed to have the rails moved at Weybourne by about 1’ to
enable it to clear the platforms!
Despite suffering severely from El Niño in 1997/98, various
sections of the line have re-opened and tourist trains operate Apart from work on the Suburban Four and an old carriage
over the Devil’s Nose. found at Mattishall, the footbridge at Weybourne needs
repainting (or possibly replacing).
Many thanks to Ken for taking us back to South America
again – at long last we may be approaching the end of these He concluded by showing us video footage of his N gauge
fascinating shows, but we’re safe for the immediate future! layout, where his daughter had been responsible for the
scenery.

After a very interesting Q & A session, Trevor was warmly
applauded for such an enthusiastic talk.

5

_________PICK-UP GOODS

“Railway Buildings: Form, Function & Style” exhibitors this year, and a brief summary of what was on
(John Minnis – 3rd March) display begins in the Blake Room, where the 7¼” Society had
a fine array of steam locos. Next to them was the Bure Valley
Meetings on railway architecture have been rare in Society Railway’s stand, and then the Lynton & Barnstaple Railway
history, so it was gratifying to hear from an expert – John had a most interesting display relating to the line’s former
MInnis of Historic England, an architectural historian by glory and its present, gradual, reinstatement. The Southwold
profession. He opened by saying that railway buildings have Railway Trust had a stand relating to their Heritage Train
tended to be shunned by enthusiasts in favour of locomotives Project. The B17 Steam Locomotive Trust – Spirit of
etc. Consequently, some individual societies have managed Sandringham New Build Project - returned to show us
better coverage of railway buildings than others e.g. the GER, progress etc, and the M&GNJRS and MNR had publicity
M&GN and NER are well-served whilst the LNWR, MR and displays. Mike Handscomb was kept busy as usual, disposing
parts of the GWR less so. of archival material and items donated by members.

He explained that most stations followed a similar plan, with The Barton House Railway and RCTS had publicity/sales
facilities for staff, passengers and handling goods with stands in the reception area, whilst in one of the side rooms
attached residential accommodation for the stationmaster. Gordon Bruce proved an able deputy, bringing an excellent
Next came the two-storey type, with accommodation for the T.V. and DVDs to offer rest and relaxation to those in need!
stationmaster above, whilst the third type was single-storey
with a separate house for the stationmaster a short distance In the North Room the Southwold Railway Trust had a model
away. railway display; the Gauge 1 Model Railway Group had
several items of rolling stock and locomotives on display,
Station styles had been lampooned in a Punch cartoon of including LNER 3021, “Schools” 901 and a Class 66. The
1848 – anything through Old English, Italianate, Oriental, Norwich M.R.C. had brought an LSWR-themed layout – “St
Swiss Chalet & Grecian. Brunel had a sense of style, but George’s Hill”, and Ian Woodruff – also known as “Huff’n’Puff”
tended to standardise the insides. G.T. Andrews was a major - had a fine “O” gauge display including 2 A4s and a P2 (I
architect for the NER’s constituents – overall roofs at larger liked that). Roger Kingstone’s Norfolk “O” Gauge Mardlers
stations, and trademark bay windows. David Mocatta had previously been mistaken for a local dialect group, but
(LB&SCR) opted for a more modern design which varied they had a rare model of the GER Decapod in its later guise
between Tudor Gothic & Italian, though with the same interior as an 0-8-0. Strumpshaw Steam & Miniature Show had a
design. Another “notable” was Frederick Barnes, who display, as did Norwich M.R.C. who brought “Charlestown”.
favoured the Historic English style, and whose work can still Rickinghall M.R.C. showed how small things could be with a
be seen at e.g. Needham Market and Stowmarket stations. mix of “T” (1:450) and “N” gauges.
The Swiss Chalet style survives only at Matlock Bath, no
doubt selected to blend with its surroundings. A line full of Moving into the Sanctuary, David Rowlands had a popular
variety is that from Tunbridge Wells to Hastings, where all the display of transport art comprising aircraft, buses, railways
stations were designed by William Tress and range from the etc, including some pencil or charcoal on cartridge. Diss &
Italianate at Wadhurst to the Early English Gothic at Battle. District M.R.C. Hornby Railways’ had “Tivetshall” in “N”
gauge. . Graham Smith’s Gauge 1 vintage trams caught the
In the early days, local materials were used e.g. carrstone at eye whilst Malcolm Cooper had put a lot of time and effort into
Snettisham and flint and brick on the south coast. Newer his “Thomas” and fairground displays. Bury St Edmunds
materials e.g. iron and glass canopies were used on the
Midland and a spectacular iron and glass roof can still be
seen at Tynemouth.

Engineers moved in search of work, and John highlighted
the strong connection between the original Bere Alston
station (LSWR) and that at Glenfarg (NBR) which, he
discovered, were both the work of W.R. Galbraith, the
Engineer for New Works/New Lines with both companies.

John had identified some 600 surviving goods sheds, which
were usually fairly plain although Brunel favoured the
ecclesiastical look. There was an almost infinite variety of
signalboxes though the GER and GWR tended to
standardise towards the end of the 19th century.

Particular attention was paid to Thetford, which was part The docks and shipping display courtesy of Bury St Edmunds
listed and part not. It had begun as a Jacobean building, but M.R.C. (Gordon Bruce).
was doubled in size in 1889. Although it had been possible to
“list” the station buildings, the 1911 goods shed and
footbridge were excluded which, he felt, was a pity.

John received a deserved round of applause at the close, and M.R.C. broke ranks to show docks and shipping and, finally,
we hope that a “Part 2” will follow in due course. Thanks also our own Ken Mills had (surprise, surprise) a superb selection
to Andy Wright for operating the projector. of locomotives and rolling stock of GCR, GNSR and NER
origins. Mike Fordham recalled a few memories with his
Annual Show Report (5th March) photographic contributions, and Mike Young had another
good display in the foyer.

Our Show went well despite some cold and wet weather, Prizes for the raffle were gratefully appreciated, with our
which seems to follow us most years. We had some new heritage railways (NNR, MNR & BVR) putting “big business”

6

_________PICK-UP GOODS

to shame, and at the close of proceedings Chairman Brian
Cornwell presented a cheque for £250 to John Hull, Mid-
Norfolk Railway Vice-Chairman, towards their Engine Shed
Appeal, and thanked our “catering corps” – Ann, Jane, Janet,
Maureen, Pauline, Rose, Sandi & Sue – for their considerable
help during the day. Thanks also to Chris King & Chris
Mitchell for managing the car parking on a rotten day and,
finally, thanks to Peter Willis for organising the whole thing
when it must have seemed that, at times, the world was
against him.

The provisional date for next year’s Show is 11th February.

“The Catering Corps” - Above, Pauline, Ann, Janet and, in the Society Chairman Brian Cornwell presents the Society’s
background, Joy, Rose and Jane (Mike Fordham). donation cheque to John Hull (left), Vice Chairman of the
Mid Norfolk Railway (Gordon Bruce).

Society President Ken Mills with the fruits of his labours (Mike Mr “Huff’n’Puff” with his ‘O’ gauge collection (Mike
Fordham)! Fordham).

It would never happen today! having been issued from city centre locations, which were not
stations. A surprising number, I thought. This is the position
As part of the archive-reduction programme a Summer 1939 from that Timetable (I have ignored the many in and around
LNER Timetable has changed hands. The first page lists all London): 9 Bridge St, Aberdeen; 284 Old Christchurch Rd,
the company’s directors (remember your A4s and B1s) with Bournemouth; Sports Stadium, West St, Brighton; 5 Market
their private (and, no doubt, palatial) home addresses. Hill, Cambridge; 17/18 South Union St, Dundee; North British
That said, I wonder how far a direct approach to Walter K. Station Hotel, Edinburgh; 37 West George St, Glasgow; Hood
Whigham (60028) would actually get! St & Tower Buildings, Water St, Liverpool; 30 Broadway
Maidstone; 16 Peter St & 16 Corporation St, Manchester; 60
At a recent meeting Graham Kenworthy spoke about tickets Milton St, Nottingham & 20 Oxford St, Southampton.

7

_________PICK-UP GOODS

Jarrolds ABC Rail & Bus Guide In 1952 when I arrived in the Norwich District S.M. Lawn the
Inspector who wrote the Operating Instructions in 1944 for
A handy little booklet, retailing for 6d (2½p) when sold in the Wymondham had been promoted to Station Master,
summer of 1949. The July/August edition was no. 768 (work Norwich. He became so annoyed by the pigeons on the roof
that out, if you can), and it was simply a collection of rafters fouling the platforms and passengers so he brought
Norfolk/Suffolk/Essex rail services and Norfolk bus services. in his shotgun and killed as many as he could! This caused
As always, the contemporary advertisements are fascinating a major furore in the media and he was told not to do it
– Eastern Counties offered a Daily Express Coach Service again!”
to London for 10/6 single; Curls were then in Westlegate;
readers would be pleased to learn that Thomas Gill & Son * David Ward is one of our Hon. Members, and held high
Builders & Contractors were contractors to the War Office, positions in railway management before ending up as
Admiralty & Air Ministry, and Herbert E.Taylor & Co. Ltd were Director for the Special Trains Unit, B.R. In retirement he has
Automobile Coach Builders & High-class Joinery been closely involved with the Heritage movement and the
Manufacturers of Cringleford (the present-day Jewsons). Friends of the Settle – Carlisle Line.
And where would we be without G.Taylor & Son, Surgical
Appliance Makers, 97 St Giles St, Norwich, which was
demolished to make way for the widened Grapes Hill?

City bus services were then in the 79-95 grouping, with the
13A/13B & 29A added because they strayed into the county.

Similar booklets were sold by other companies across the B12/3 61566 simmers at Norwich Thorpe in the 1950s. The
U.K. humane – if not so effective – pigeon-deterrents can just be
seen hanging from the station roof.
Letters to the Editor
The undated image by the late Bernard Harrison shows a
From David Ward* (and see NRS/NL 61/1 pp. 5 & 10 et more humane but undoubtedly less effective way of dealing
seq.): with the pigeons. The wires hanging down from the station
“Norwich in Ninety: roof above the engine were supposed to stop pigeons from
Peter Adds says that Norwich in 90 is achievable but only flying in and getting under the concourse roof, but even a
with a lot of work. It is perhaps pertinent to remind ourselves pigeon would surely have learned to fly under the wires.
that the special train to inaugurate electrification to Norwich
on 5th May 1987 ran non-stop from Liverpool St in 83 min 22 And the second letter comes from my good friend Michael
secs observing all speed restrictions. This was with electric Roach developing the theme of hygiene in a different
locomotive 86220 then 20 years old with over 2 million miles direction. I will call it Roach’s Rant and I thankfully live at the
on the clock and a load of 7 carriages/244 tons tare. Even other end of the country!
time was not reached until Harold Wood (15 miles) and
Ipswich was passed in 52½ minutes. The average speed Toilets on Trains:
from Sproughton to Swainsthorpe was exactly 100 m.p.h. Whether you are organising the Glastonbury Festival or the
with speed not exceeding 105 m.p.h. With a modern 110 village fete one consideration is the provision of toilets for
m.p.h. EMU with high power to weight ratio and good the use of the people you are inviting to your function.
braking to ensure rapid acceleration and deceleration Wherever a large number of people gather together the
Ipswich in 60 and Norwich in 90 should therefore be provision of toilets is an essential requirement. If you have
realistic with good reliability without major infrastructure ever worked in a large office block you will know that at
work. The GE team under the late Gerry Fiennes which certain times of the day you may have to go to a different part
introduced the Norwich in 120 service 60 years ago with of the building or a different floor to find a vacant WC. The
Britannia Pacifics would have done it without a Committee of Workplace Regulations require one WC for every 20-25
MPs, civil servants and others to drive it forward – such is employees. Some 10 years ago in a Report to the
progres s ! Government the need for toilets was expressed thus: “The
Department of Transport is particularly keen to ensure that
Ambulance Trains: toilets at train stations and on trains are available and
The Archive held by the Society is very important because accessible to disabled passengers.”
little is known about these trains. The fact that there were 44
of these trains illustrates their significance. This is
equivalent to the total fleet of Class 91 sets and HSTs
required to run today’s complete East Coast Main Line
service. Eleven of the sets were built in the U.S.A. and were
air-braked. The LNER Class B12 4-6-0 locomotives which
had excellent Route Availability and were air-brake fitted
were therefore vital to the working of these trains which
appear to have been based at Newbury, Westbury &
Templecombe. The footplate crews and a fitter lived on the
trains and B12s are known to have been temporarily based
at Templecombe and Bournemouth to work these trains.

8

_________PICK-UP GOODS

Yet the providers and designers of the latest trains The Tay Bridges
apparently know better, and are building trains with no
toilets at all. These trains will break down, and will be Andy Wright’s presentation to the GERS on 28th January
immobilised for hours when there is an overhead line fault. concerning “Bridges and Viaducts” recalled some images
When an HST broke down in Wiltshire a couple of years ago held on my computer since the middle of last year. They
one of the main complaints was about the state of the were all taken by Michael Roach in the summer of 1965 and
toilets. At least those trapped on that train had toilets to use show a selection of contemporary vehicles parked at
and complain about. Even when the latest trains are Wormit, Wormit station looking across the Tay Bridge to
provided with toilets these are too few in number for the Dundee and the Tay road bridge under construction.
hundreds of people that are carried at peak times. Carriage
design in Britain has declined in the last 30 to 40 years and With shades of the demolition of the Euston Arch, Dundee’s
we cannot even line up the seats with the windows. Other Royal Arch or Victoria Arch was demolished to make way for
countries can do it and provide toilets as a matter of course. the construction of the new bridge.
Sometimes toilets are needed for other reasons: people
can suffer from travel sickness; people need to wash their There’s no prize for identifying the cars!
hands; babies need their nappies changed. The country is
spending £15 billion on building Crossrail, yet cannot spare
the space and the money to build 2 toilets in each coach for
a journey of more than 100 minutes. The Crossrail website
proudly tells us that at peak times there will be 1500 aboard
each train, with no toilets! We are losing sight of basic public
health. London is already quite the worst city in Great Britain
for the number of public toilets provided. I return to where I
began: wherever large numbers of people are gathered
together the provision of a large number of toilets is
absolutely necessary.

Editor’s Note: Mike has made his valid points and the
sub ject is closed.

Liberated from the Archives

The Newsletter has had plenty to say about our Archives
recently. I recently liberated this charming 1904 booklet
issued by the North British Railway advertising its circular
tours by rail and steamer, mostly round the West Coast and
Loch Lomond.

The North British Hotel stands outside Edinburgh Waverley
station, and is now known as the Royal British Hotel. It was
advertised inside the front cover, and in those far-off days a
single room could be had from 25p, a double from 45p, a
double bedroom and bathroom adjoining from 75p and a
bedroom, sitting-room and bathroom forming a private suite
from £1. Visitors’ Servant’s Board was available @ 30p per
day!

9

_________PICK-UP GOODS

Closure of the Somerset & Dorset The line was officially known as The Somerset & Dorset
Joint Railway, the result of a joint acquisition by the Midland
The line closed from 7th March 1966, and it was one of the Railway & the London & South Western Railway.
major closures from 50 years ago. It ran from Holes Bay The late 1960s saw further significant line closures, but after
Junc (Poole) to Bath Green Park, and thence to the closure of the East Lincolnshire lines and the Ilfracombe
Mangotsfield, though the latter was ex-Midland Railway. The branch in 1970 the pace slowed with few major closures
Evercreech Junc – Highbridge & Burnham-on-Sea route occurring thereafter. The G.C. and Isle of Wight closures will
closed at the same time. Michael Roach has supplied some soon have their 50th “anniversaries”!
images – mainly taken in the line’s last year – which I have
gratefully snaffled as they show railways in an area little-
known to many readers.

75021 & 92233 top Masbury Summit with a holiday 75072 “brews up” at Bath Green Park on 12th June 1965.
express on 30th June 1962. All trains had to reverse here.

76056 leaves Cole on the 1310 Bath Green Park – 41283 awaits departure from Glastonbury with the 0945
Templecombe on 15th May 1965. Highbridge – Evercreech Junc on 16th October 1965.

3205 at Cole on the 1420 Highbridge – Templecombe on 41283 has arrived at Evercreech Junc with the same train
15th May 1965. on 16th October 1965.

10

_________PICK-UP GOODS

Western Explorer (Steve Cane)

On New Year’s Day my wife and I drove to Weston-super-
Mare for a week’s holiday. Of course, as usual, our
destination had significance as “The Hatters” were playing
Bristol Rovers on 2nd January. We were staying on the sea
front at Weston and when it stopped raining (ha, ha!) we had
a great view across the Bristol Channel to Wales.

I had looked at train times into Bristol and duly arrived to
catch one on the Saturday morning, only to see two double-
decker buses parked on the station forecourt. Yes, bus
replacement for the whole weekend due to complete line
closure into Bristol!

Wookey Goods Shed has been converted to other uses but
retains that “railway” look.

We decided to get a bus from the station to Clifton and get
some lunch there. On arrival the sun finally came out. We
had never been there before and found it a fascinating place
with plenty to see with great architecture and a quiet place
away from Bristol city centre.

Of course, a visit to Clifton would be wasted if one missed
the suspension bridge. We were not quite sure which
direction the bridge was in, so I asked a man: “Where would
I find the bridge?” His laconic Bristolian reply was: “Why, do
you want to jump off it?”

Bristol Temple Meads station on 4th January (Steve Cane).

It wasn’t as bad as it could have been, as the bus went non-
stop to Bristol Temple Meads station and only took 15
minutes longer than the train. Rovers ground is situated
about 1½ miles from Filton Abbey station; this part of the
journey was possible by train from Temple Meads. I went to
the match, and will tell you about the result later!

The next day we drove to Wells as my wife was meeting an The Clifton Suspension Bridge on 4th January (Steve Cane).
old school friend there. I dropped her off and went disused
railway-line searching. I drove the short distance to Wookey When we found the bridge it certainly had the “Wow factor” -
Hole and found the site of the old railway station. The goods the Avon gorge it spans is so deep and the view is
shed is still standing and in very good condition, being used spectacular. Brunel won the competition to build the bridge
now by an engineering company. The station was built in and construction started in 1831, but soon halted due to
1871 and was on the broad gauge line which went from financial problems. Years later after Brunel’s death it was
Cheddar to Wells. Later it linked up to the East Somerset decided to complete the project with some design changes,
Railway providing through services to Witham. Wookey and it was opened in 1864.
station closed to passengers in 1963 but through goods
traffic continued to the paper mills at Wookey until 1965. We visited the new Visitor Centre on the Leigh Woods side
of the gorge and spent over an hour looking at the many
On Monday 4th January, with the trains running again into photos, models, drawings and texts that are on display
Bristol, we bought two returns into the city. The weather was there. Well worth a visit if you are round that way.
awful with rain and wind, but I was still able to get a couple 11
of photos at Temple Meads, one of them being inside a
covered car park by the side of the station forecourt. A sign
above the entrance said “The Passenger Shed” and I
believe it to be part of the original Brunel station built in
1843.

_________PICK-UP GOODS

We stayed in Weston for a further three days visiting, once
again, the lovely city of Wells and Cheddar Gorge.

Oh yes - the football result: well Luton had just sacked their
manager and the caretaker replacement led us to a woeful
2-0 defeat. On the positive side we have a new manager
and are doing much better under him. Hope to bring you
some more “Travels with The Hatters” with some better
results in the next couple of months. COYH! (Come on you
Hatters !)

The Quietest & Busiest Stations

As reported in NRS/NL 61/1 p.7 the second-quietest station
was Coombe, or Coombe Junction Halt, on the Looe
branch. Michael Roach has supplied two images (right),
one of 5531 at Coombe on the last day of steam working, 9th
September 1961, and the other of 37673 with a loaded
china clay train from Moorswater Dries on 30th April 1993.
The viaduct in the background carries the main line to
Penzance.

He adds that it is quicker to walk from Liskeard station to
Coombe than to walk round to catch the train from the
branch platform as it’s all downhill. In the opposite direction
it’s a matter of fitness as it’s all uphill!

Eaton Park (Mike Fordham) Quiz Answers

The Eaton Park miniature railway reopened at Easter and is In NRS/NL 61/1 p.8 members had the opportunity to try a
now open every Sunday until October. Over the winter the quiz based around Tube and Docklands station names. The
Tuesday gang has nearly completed the signalbox and answers (with the odd explanation) are as follows: 1.
relocated all the signalling to the box. Several thousand Pimlico (Passport to Pimlico was a film); 2. Snaresbrook; 3.
wooden sleepers have been replaced with plastic; this was Baker St; 4. Finchley Central (think New Vaudeville Band); 5.
a very big job as each track length had to be taken from the Mansion House; 6. White City; 7. Watford; 8. St Paul’s; 9.
field into the workshop to be reassembled with new Abbey Road (it’s near West Ham); 10. Hammersmith; 11.
s leepers . Angel; 12. Pontoon Dock; 13. Royal Albert; 14. Queensbury;
15. Oval; 16. Kenton; 17. Monument; 18. Custom House; 19.
In the station area the track layout has been improved with a Kentish Town; 20. Acton Town (South Acton – Acton Town
new siding and bypass line. On the raised track two new closed from 2nd March 1959).
swing bridges have been built and installed.
The only 100% solution submitted was from Mike & Ann
Over the winter diesel engineer Mike Riches has built a Handscomb. Well done!
powerful diesel engine which was unveiled on Easter
Sunday.

Do give the railway a visit on a Tuesday 1000 –
1500 to have a look round or take a ride on a
Sunday 1300 – 1700.

Another Dreaded Quiz!

The unknown enthusiast standing beside the
locomotive is appropriately attired for the early
1960s. Is a Lyons Fruit Pie lurking in that duffel
bag somewhere? I am sure some of our
super-sleuths will name the station at the drop
of a hat but where is it, please? Answers by
email to the Editor.

12

___________NRS NEWS

Have you renewed? Please make cheques payable to Norfolk Railway Society
and, in any event, return them to Ray by the end of April.
I’ve received a blue 2016 NRS membership form and Members plus wife/partner who haven’t already paid a
payment from nearly all members - thank you. deposit can, of course, still be included. Friends/relations
who members wish to invite are welcome, at the full price of
But if you haven’t yet renewed, this will be your final issue of £39.50, but please speak to Ray at a meeting or telephone
the NRS Newsletter unless your form and cheque reach me him on 01603-721067 for a form and to check availability of
soon. places .

Don’t delay, do it today! To assist the catering, please ensure you remember your
menu choices and meet at Sheringham station (Platform 1)
Mike Handscomb Membership Secretary between 1845 & 1855.

Alf Edwards NRS Summer Excursion – Nene Valley Railway
- Saturday 16th July
Not too many will recall our member Alf Edwards from
Caister-on-Sea who suffered a serious stroke about 5 years The NRS summer excursion this year will be to the Nene
ago. Mike Handscomb has forwarded the following Valley Railway at Peterborough.
encouraging message from his wife: “Alf is a lot better now
and is able to speak a bit better; still in wheelchair though, The plan is to meet at Norwich station at 0840 in time to
so hard to get him over to see you all…if you had the time catch the 0857 Norwich to Liverpool Lime Street, East
one day he would be pleased to see you.” Midlands Trains service to Peterborough, arriving at 1022. A
short 10 minute walk from the main line station will get us to
Outside Visits Organiser the Nene Valley Railway where we can travel on any of the
steam hauled services running between Peterborough and
It is pleasing to report that Brian Cornwell has taken on the Wansford (where we can have a guided tour of the engine
role with effect from 4th February. shed and signalbox). Services are:

Visit to Strumpshaw Steam Museum – Peterborough: 1100 1245 1430
Thursday 2nd June Wansford: 1126 1311 1456

It’s been several years since we’ve been to Strumpshaw, Wansford: 1145 1330 1515
and I’m grateful to Ray Halliday for making the initial contact. Peterborough: 1230 1415 1600
We will meet at Strumpshaw for a 7pm start, and the visit
will comprise a guided tour, train rides and “Ark” rides. They Return to Norwich will be on the 1639 East Midlands Trains
are hoping an organist will also be available. There will also service from the main line station arriving back at 1813.
be tea/coffee and biscuits (included in cost). Members will need to make their own way to and from
Norwich station. Parking is available in the RCP surface car
Cost will be £6 payable on the evening but, out of park on Lower Clarence Road behind the station for £6.00 a
consideration to the organisers, intending participants day. First Buses no. 25 and 26 go directly to the station from
should advise me in advance so that they know how many to the city centre on a regular basis. The total cost of the
expect. excursion will be £25.00 (£10.50 GroupSave rail fare and
£14.50 NVR entry).
The address is Old Hall, Strumpshaw, Norwich, NR13 4HR,
and you should look at their website for further information. I must have names of interested parties by 14th May at the
latest in order that we can secure the GroupSave rail
We would like the event to be well-supported (bring your discount, and stating if you wish to visit the shed/signalbox.
wives/partners as well), given that this will be an “out of My contact details are phone: xx – message service
hours” opening. available or email: xx
Full payment of £25.00 is required by 11th June 2016. Any
Notifications please to Edward Mann cheques made payable to Norfolk Railway Society please.

North Norfolk Railway Dining Train – Thursday Visit the Nene Valley Railway website at www.nvr.org.uk for
9th June more details of the railway’s facilities and rolling stock.

A pro-forma is attached for completion please i.e. menu I hope you are able to come along on what I am sure will be
choices, note of any food allergies/intolerances, and return an informative and enjoyable day.
to Ray Halliday at 101 Lower St, Salhouse, Norwich, NR13
6AD or handed to Ray at the meetings on 21st or 28th April Brian Cornwell
together with the balance owing i.e. £29.50 (members) External Visits Organiser
£39.50 (non-members) less any deposit already paid.

13

_________FEAT URE

Ponder’s End station level crossing 1961 (Rod Lock)

The Lea Valley line, also known as the Cambridge Main Line, was littered with level-crossings, both at stations and
intermediately. Signalboxes were also closely spaced to keep the very mixed traffic, including Class A passenger trains, on the
m ove.

The signalboxes on either side of Ponder’s End station signalbox were, on the London side, Pickett’s (previously named
Pickard’s) Lock, 1711 yards away, and Brimsdown station, 1750 yards northwards. All three boxes were open continuously,
except Pickett’s Lock which was switched out for most of Sunday. There was only minimal four-tracking, around 4 miles,
between Copper Mill Junc and Pickett’s Lock, the additional tracks being Goods only lines. The only passenger loop was
located at Broxbourne station.

In 1961, land was still being reserved for four-tracking as far out as Roydon, the proposal coming to the fore today in
connection with reducing journey times to Stansted Airport.

The first level-crossing on leaving Liverpool St via the Lea Valley was at Northumberland Park, 7 miles 11 chains from the
capital, controlled by the lofty station signalbox, whereas on the Colchester route it was not until Ingatestone station at 23 miles
30 chains that the first manned level-crossing was encountered.

The problem at Ponder’s End station level-crossing, almost certainly applied at others on the route, e.g. Brimsdown station,
but it was the one about which I received several written complaints from motorists concerning delays in the evening peak. I
used to write to the complainants pointing out that the Lea Valley line was very busy, particularly between 1700 & 1800, which
coincided with peak road traffic movements.

They were invited to spend some peak time in the signalbox to observe rail traffic. The stationmaster, Mr Wiles, would be in
attendance to answer any questions, so as not to distract the signalman. Some motorists accepted the offer and, of those who
did, some wrote back saying they now appreciated the problem.

The signalbox was single-manned and, in addition to the usual bell signals: “Is Line Clear”, “Train Entering Section” and “Train
Out of Section”, because of the close spacing of signalboxes there was an additional signal, received from Pickett’s Lock and
sent to Brimsdown: “Train Approaching” (1-2-1). All bell signals were recorded in a Train Register by the signalman; it also
acted as a reminder for him of actions he had already taken.

Trains dealt with between 1700 & 1800 Mondays to Fridays in the June - September 1961 timetable were as follows:

Down trains Ponder’s End dep To Up trains From
Liverpool St dep 1700 Hertford East Ponder’s End dep 1654 ex-Cheshunt
1640 1705 Broxbourne 1704 1607 ex-Audley End
1648 Pas s Bury St Edmunds 1710 1715 ex-Broxbourne
1656 1720 Broxbourne 1730 1533 ex-King’s Lynn
1700 Pas s Ely Pas s 1741 ex-Brimsdown
1716 1740 Broxbourne 1744 1735 ex-Broxbourne
1720 Pas s Bishop’s Stortford 1750
1734 Pas s Cam bridge
1736 1800 Broxbourne
1740

This level-crossing makes me think about other busy level-crossings both past and present in the East of England:
● Lincoln High St (still open) although its neighbour - Pelham St - was bridged in 1961. .
● Brandon station generated many complaints particularly when up freight trains stopped to take water.
● Oulton Broad North station where short period observations extrapolated suggest 2,000 vehicles per hour in the
middle of the day.
● West Bilney on the closed Dereham – King’s Lynn branch located where the A47 crossed the line.
● King’s Lynn, Tennyson Road where the main Hunstanton road crossed the throat of the station before a bypass was
built.
● Dereham where the A47 crossed the Wells line at the level-crossing controlled by Dereham North signalbox.
● King’s Dyke between Whittlesea and Peterborough, soon to be bridged. The signalbox controls Funthams Lane level
cros s ing.

Ponder’s North station level-crossing closed in 1969 when an overbridge was constructed.

Finally, a light-hearted memory of Ponder’s End. One of the relief stationmasters who I re-established contact with – we did our
National Service at RAF Bletchley/Stanbridge from 1950-1952 – sometimes covered Ponder’s End. If he had occasion to ring
one of the local firms, Messrs Borlocks, he would innocently ask: “Is that B---ocks?”!

14

_________WORKING TIM ETABLE
a selective look ahead at local railway events

NORFOLK RAILWAY SOCIETY, GER Society (Norwich Branch) and Norfolk Transport Group meetings take place (unless
otherwise stated) at: United Reformed Church Hall, Ipswich Road, Norwich, NR4 6QR

Events are listed in good faith, b ut visitors should check with the organisation concerned b efore travelling.
Great Eastern Railway Society (Norwich Branch) - contact Mike Fordham
Norfolk Transport Group - contact John Laycock

Services on our Local Railways

Ashmanhaugh Light Railway, East View Farm, Stone Lane, Ashmanhaugh, NR12 8YW. For information:
www.as hm anhaughlightrailway.co.uk

Barton House Railway, Hartwell Road, Wroxham, NR12 8TL. For information: www.bartonhouserailway.org.uk – Tel: 01603-
782008.

The Bure Valley Railway - Daily running until 30th October. For details of individual events please visit their website -
www.bvrw.co.uk - or telephone 01263-733858.

The Mid-Norfolk Railway - Regular running until 2nd October. For details of individual events please visit their website -
www.mnr.org.uk - or telephone 01362-690633.

The Mid-Suffolk Light Railway, Brockford Station, Wetheringsett, IP14 5PW - For details of individual events please visit their
website - www.mslr.org.uk - or telephone 01449-766899.

The North Norfolk Railway - Daily running until 30th October. For details of individual events please visit their website -
www.nnrailway.co.uk - or telephone 01263-820800.

The Norwich & District Society of Model Engineers meets at Eaton Park, Norwich on Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays
from 1300-1700. See website www.ndsme.co.uk.

The Wells & Walsingham Light Railway. Daily running until 30th October. For information:
www. wellswalsinghamrailway.co.uk or tel: 01328 711630 (up to 1700 please).

The Whitwell & Reepham Railway - For details of individual events please visit their website - www.whitwellstation.com - or
telephone 01603-871694.

APRIL Sat - Sun WHITWELL & REEPHAM RAILWAY – 1940s Weekend (Steam)
9th - 10th

14th Thu NORFOLK TRANSPORT GROUP – MEETING CANCELLED

16th Sat NENTA TRAINTOURS – “The Cotswolds Adventurer” – Please see last issue.

17th Sun BARTON HOUSE RAILWAY – Running Day 1430 – 1730.

21st Thu NORFOLK RAILWAY SOCIETY – “Killin to Kingswear” – A Black & White Night – Ian Krause –
23rd - 24th Sat - Sun 1930.

WELLS & WALSINGHAM LIGHT RAILWAY – St George’s Weekend – “Anything Goes” – All
available locos in service.

28th Thu GREAT EASTERN RAILWAY SOCIETY (Norwich Branch) – “Dawlish – the Great Storm” – Mike
Fordham – 1930.

30th Sat NORWICH & DISTRICT SOCIETY OF MODEL ENGINEERS – Members’ Day

30th - 2nd May Sat - Mon NORTH NORFOLK RAILWAY – “Day Out with Thomas”.

15

_________WORKING TIM ETABLE

MAY Sun ASHMANHAUGH LIGHT RAILWAY – Operating Day 1400 – 1700 (weather permitting).
1st
1st Sun WHITWELL & REEPHAM RAILWAY – Steam Sunday.
1st - 2nd
5th Sun - Mon MID-SUFFOLK LIGHT RAILWAY – “Middy in the War Years”.

8th Thu NORFOLK RAILWAY SOCIETY – “Stations & Structures of the M&GN – Part 2” – Nigel Digby –
14th 1930. This will cover Norwich to Peterborough & Little Bytham.
15th
19th Sun MID-NORFOLK RAILWAY – Vintage Bus Day.
21st - 22nd
28th Sat MID-NORFOLK RAILWAY – Evening Jazz Train.

28th - 30th Sun BARTON HOUSE RAILWAY – Operating Day 1430 – 1730.
28th - 30th
29th - 30th Thu NORFOLK RAILWAY SOCIETY – “Checked at Signals” – David Pearce – 1930.
JUNE
2nd Sat - Sun MID-NORFOLK RAILWAY – “Stratford Depot Weekend”.

4th Sat NENTA TRAINTOURS – “The Tyne & Wear Boat Train” – From Norwich dep 0535 approx then via
5th Sat - Mon Ipswich & Ely to York/Durham & Beamish/Newcastle (cruise)/Lindisfarne – Holy Island. Norwich
5th return 2358 approx. Fares from £68.75. First Class & Premier Class available. Details:
9th www.nentatraintours.co.uk or telephone 01692-406152.

10th - 12th BURE VALLEY RAILWAY – “Everything Goes” – All available engines & coaches in action.

Sat - Mon MID-NORFOLK RAILWAY – Wymondham Flower Festival.

Sun - Mon NORTH NORFOLK RAILWAY – “Dad’s Army Weekend”.

Thu NORFOLK RAILWAY SOCIETY – Evening Visit to Strumpshaw Steam Museum – 1900. Please
see page 13 for details.
Sat
Sun MID-NORFOLK RAILWAY – Evening Folk Train.
Sun
Thu ASHMANHAUGH LIGHT RAILWAY – Operating Day 1400 – 1700 (weather permitting).

Fri - Sun WHITWELL & REEPHAM RAILWAY – Steam Sunday.

NORFOLK RAILWAY SOCIETY – Evening Dining Train on the North Norfolk Railway. Please see
page 13 and booking form attached.

NORTH NORFOLK RAILWAY WEYBOURNE TRACTION GROUP – Diesel Gala.

The Ipswich Branch of the R.C.T.S., the Ipswich & District Historical Transport Society and the Ipswich Transport Society hold
regular meetings in the town. Anyone wishing to see or receive a copy of their programmes, please get in touch.

The Iditarod – Tailpiece!

A friend of mine asked if I’d heard of the Iditarod. My reply was to
the effect that I had not, and if my life had depended on it I’d be a
dead man!

Apparently it’s a 9-day 1,000 mile dog sled race across Alaska (cue:
North to Alaska by the late Johnny Horton) and it took place last
month. Unfortunately there was no snow at Anchorage, the starting
point, so the organisers got the Alaska Railroad to bring in 7 bogie
wagonloads of the white stuff!

Printed by Express Impressions. Tel. 01603 301127
16


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