West Somerset Railway Spring Gala

Thanks to yourself and all the other volunteers, it was such a welcoming atmosphere and everyone was willing to have a chat with us visitors - it makes such a difference.

Can I also reiterate the comments regarding the permanent way, an exceptionally smooth ride, with only a handful of speed restrictions. The rolling stock was also very well presented. Certainly far better than I expected given the issues the railway has had. Clearly a lot of hard work has been ongoing behind the scenes by those who matter, despite the politics.

I must also congratulate the move to have the kids for a quid offer on the Sunday, I have never seen so many kids at a gala. My daughter thoroughly enjoyed herself. They are the next generation and seeing younger volunteers on the footplate (& elsewhere), may inspire them!

 

Lot of clatter and banter, but not many photo's so I bore you all with mine! Part one.

 

Challenging conditions all weekend, lack of exhaust, sun all wrong and a timetable in shambles. Part TWO.

 

Some cracking pics there, helped by the gorgeous weather this weekend!

 

A few clips from Saturday night's 'Mega Train'. Consisting of 12 coaches, GWR 'Manor' No.7822 'Foxcote Manor' and BR 4MT No.75069 are seen hauling the outward trip, passing Nornvis Bridge and Treble's Holford. In the dead of night, GWR 'Manor' No.7822 'Foxcote Manor' and GWR 28xx No.2857 are seen climbing passed Leigh Woods.

Enjoy.

 

And a few clips from me.......

 

Many thanks, sun getting too overhead in the middle of the day, but it's surprising what digital can cope with versus slide film.
Harold.

 

Despite of few hiccups in the morning and evening, over all, it was really nice day!

Perfect weather.
Lovely walk along the seafront from Blue Anchor to Minehead.
1st ride behind 419 (albeit double-headed with 5199).
Seeing 75069 + 2857 on a different railway.
Great hot dog, cheesy chips and home brewed rhubarb cider on the beach.

Over all, it was really great to be back on my favourite railway again!
I cannot wait until the next one!

 

Nothing wrong with those! Great record of a lovely weekend.

BW, Alan

 

Just to second this statement, I was quite surprised at the number of kids around on the Sunday - it was very good to see. There was one very excited kid who kept asking when was the Caley coming at Stogumber, and it was like all his Christmas' had come at once when it came round the corner. Fair play for trying to encourage families.

 

Got around to editing my photos from the Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Had tickets pre booked for the last two days, but only travelled on Friday. Really enjoyed the event despite the various issues.
Thursday:







Friday:



Saturday:

 

Those images of 5199 remind me of 6106’s time there as a youngster in the early 90’s, thanks for sharing.

 

Reminds me of a holiday there in the early 1960's

Steve B