West Somerset Railway General Discussion

What about for 'First Class' having a Compartment First where you book a compartment for your party?

 

"Ello mate"

 

Enjoy steam fayre everyone, huge thanks to those who make the fantastic show happen that is so close to home.

 

Thanks Anthony - hope you enjoy the Rally.


(a pic by Rob Lindley from last night)


Steve

 

Here's a video showing the Somerset Coast Express (the 7.15pm Norton to Watchet) arriving at the seaside town. This special is run each year on on the Friday eve of the Steam Rally for traders/exhibitors. Nice to see the welcome given by Watchet to these evening visitors. Well done the Railway too for doing its bit for the local community. To me this is real heritage - using a railway to bring hundreds of people to a local town for an evening out - using a fine SDJR loco with ten on is just added value. Thanks to Mike Dan for yet another WSR video, filmed and produced in his wonderful unique style.



Steve

 

For those who have not encountered Mike Dan, he's a local man with an absolute passion for photography. Most of his work revolves around the community of Watchet and his love of the West Somerset Railway. Many of his videos appear on You Tube where he posts under the name 'Admiral Scorner'. When he is no longer with us he will leave behind a wonderful library which future generations can use to learn about the community which he so loves.

Stef.

 

The way you sling that terminology around, it makes me wonder what on earth your 'day job' is!

{And apologies to all for the 'off-topic'..}

Noel

 

I hope it is fruitful having a proper engine policy will help considerably, I cant really see how 4561 fits in going off previous 5542 operation it was mainly restricted so cant be called upon to pull and 8 plus set, I know the offer for 4561 wasn't reasonable but if 3803 was a newly overhauled locomotive a swap would have been considered, surely that would have been a better locomotive capable of pulling anything required, thus giving the railway a fleet of three engines class 4 and above
I hope the PLC doesn't decide to sell 4110 as it will be an asset for the railway, maybe there are not current funds to overhaul her but all engines now running have had long hard slog to be restored.

 

As much as I like to see GWR 2-8-0 locos is it really what is needed on the WSR ? At present we have two locos capable of dealing with 8+ set 6960 and 88 , how often does the Railway need this capability ? I saw 88 providing traction for the NF to WT special last night with 10 on and I do know of incoming charters that are 8+ but do we need more with this capability ? I do know the expression " wouldn't it be nice " but does this apply to this situation ?
I do remember the Minehead Branch from the early 60s whilst under the operation of British Railways and it was a Pannier tank with 4 on and a larger loco that I now recognise as a Prairie with 6 on , on Saturdays ( change over day at Butlins ) ok not 8 but would not a large Prairie cope along with the two larger locos ? I'm sure there are plenty who will disagree with me along with facts and figures , please feel free to disagree .

 

There is usually at least one six coach set in use on a normal days service which should be perfectly do-able for a small prarie

 

Ah that’s a shame, always enjoyed admirals videos

 

There was a great prairie locomotive on the WSR, namely 4160 which was a stalwart on the line. Sadly it is unlikely to return after overhaul due to the souring of relations with the WSRA and the locomotives owners.

 

The Rally today reminded me of a Clint Eastwood Movie:The Good,The Bad & The Ugly.

£2.00 for a small bottle water on one outlet... Was not cold.
No vegetarian/ vegan option. One use plastic by the ton. No option of recycling anything.
Met and talked with some great people.
The Brake van rides were at first a bit of a short journey, don't mention point clips.
Beer was good. The Exhibits were good.

A day of The Curates egg.

 

Tony, I think you mis-read Stefan's post. Mike Dan is still very much with us - he was out filming late last night!



Edit: & posted this 18 minutes ago!

 

I can't remember which one it was but I do believe I've see a Pannier running with 5 or 6 on durring the last gala .

 

I visited the Steam and Vintage Rally yesterday and thought it was excellent. The weather obviously helped this year.

On arrival I was asked if I was a WSRA member as entry would be free. Without any pressure it was suggested that I could make a donation which I naturally did.

There was plenty to see and lots going on. There was entertainment for families with young children and compared to other attractions that I have visited with the family, the Vintage Rally rated highly.

A well organised and enjoyable event. Well done. <BJ>

 

Had a spare bottle in bag so was able to use water refill points. Saved money buying water, so more money for beer.

Enjoyable day yesterday, made use of Sat/Sun wristband and returned today for few hours before work. Like to do both days in case vehicles attend on the Sunday that didn’t show on a Saturday. Indeed, as today found RT Keedwell lorry and another bus that must’ve replaced double decker.

 

Can’t wait to see it also the S160

 

It would seem a strange decision to sell 4110. The WSR always seems to struggle to have enough locos, with at least one or two coming on loan each season. Why would the board make the decision to be even less self sufficient?

 

Any ideas which engines are likely to be running this week? Trying to decide to head north or south on my week off...