Latest Mid-Hants Railway e-letters, with same-day photos and videos, including mainline steam train action
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From:
Matthew Allen
Sent: 25 July 2005 12:00
Subject: Some positive feedback
Hi Tony
I was chatting some someone at the GCR Gala this weekend and they were
singing
the praises of MHR website. They were really impressed with the
information
and photos of the ongoing work on various engines. I think they came
from
an engineering background and said this information and detail is
normally
very hard to find. Most heritage railways don't include any of that
stuff
on their websites.
I thought I'd let you know. Keep up the good work!
Thanks
Matt
That's very encouraging, Matt. Thank you for telling me.
In fact it couldn't have been much more helpful because it identifies the main objective of the Loco Shed sections of our website: to help the enthusiasts see the work and problems of restoring and maintaining these lovely machines.
Trouble is, I can't keep on showing (e.g.):
- the 2 days work of each boiler washout (done every 21 steaming days for each locomotive); or
- the 1½ days blueing-in per metal-to-metal joint to get a good seal;
because that would be too much repetition.
So we still get lots of enquiries like:
"When are you going to finish Bittern?"
"Why does it take you a year to replace Thomas's firebox?" and
"Why don't you mend all those rusty engines in the siding up the yard?"
We sigh and persevere.
d:-)
tw 25 July 2005 14:33For sure, quickly mend them all, it's as easy as that!
It's interesting, some heritage railway websites come from a more "tourist" point of view. For example the SVR, great website but not much information for the enthusiast. I think you've got the balance just right. The site is great for the casual visitor and the train mad person like myself alike. The "letters" page is an excellent idea. Some of the photos people send in are fantastic.
Regards
Matt 25 July 2005 16:39
From: Ian
Davey
Sent: 20 July 2005 09:20
Subject: Sunday 17th July 2005
Bus
Rally photos, and pics of Hastings
Unit excursion on MHR, which I was
fortunate enough to guard.
16th July:
We cut back trees in Anstey
Park in preparation
for Sunday; Bus Rally organiser Alan
Fairbrother supervises
17th July:
Yellow buses of Bournemouth
bus and sales
stand.
Passengers wait for
a bus from bus station
at Anstey.
Hastings Unit awaits
the road on the
down at Medstead (picture taken by me whilst I was guard - hence
trackside
shot).
Driver and conductor of Aldershot
& District
No 503 pose for the photographer during a brief break outside
Medstead
station.
Bristol VR complete with
trailer for cycles
about to leave Medstead station. The driver had a few problems turning
in
the confined space up there, but made it in the end.
Almost brand new Wilts
& Dorset Open-topper
at Medstead station.
Ian
From: Roger Stronell
Sent: 04 July 2005 19:12
Subject: Sunday, 3rd July 2005, at Ropley
Hi Tony
A welcome return visit from The Duke, a festival of
Morris Dancing and and a
fabulous display of vintage
Morris cars, all to be seen at Ropley station on
Sunday afternoon.
And despite intermittent rain the show carried on regardless. Here are
some
photos for your amusement -
- Face
to Face - 73096
& 71000
- For the kids, it doesn't get any better than
this -
Cabbing The Duke
- #71000
- #71000
- Young lad polishing
up the brasswork
- #35005
Canadian Pacific
in the rain
- Morris
vehicles on show
- Another
Morris vehicle
on show
- Morris Dancing - the
Mayflower
side from Ash
- Morris Dancing - the Taeppa's
Tump side from Maidenhead
Regards
Roger
From:
Banham, Ian
Sent: 01 July 2005 17:21
Subject: The return of the Duke
Hi Tony
Couple of pictures taken at a rather damp M4M station this afternoon as
the
Duke of Gloucester passed through.
Regards
Ian
One
Two
From: Peter Wilson
Sent: 01 July 2005 13:11
Subject: Re(2): 29TH JUNE 2005
Dear Tony
A question...I may be wrong?
Your pictures of the 29th don't actually include any taken in Kent? In
fact
looking back over the years I don't think I have seen many Kent pics of
MHR
based outings on the web, published in the MHR News etc. Is that a
conscious
decision to exclude it?
Interestingly, I previously submitted pics of a Std 5 excursion into
Kent,
taken between Sarre and Minster...these too were deemed to be on the
back
list as the run had already been covered. As usual with pics in London
and
the suburbs...but not in Kent.
However, pics I have taken on the Mid Hants...Diesel Gala...went
straight
on the web-site...true LSWR???
That said, an excellent web-site with some smashing pictures.
Best regards
Peter Wilson
Please don't think there's any kind of plot afoot here, Peter. It's just me here at home doing this website. I'm a long way from Kent these days (though I did once live there).
I select photos mainly as newsworthy; even a lousy photo sent within the hour would probably get published if I was at home and checking my mail. After a day or two, when I have more choices, standards are likely to rise and earlier (lousy?) photos may even be removed.
When the locos were 73096, 34016 of 35005, perhaps they passed too pdq for photographers to catch ! Should be easier with a 60mph limit (smaller wheels) for #45231.
d:-)
Yes, we've got some wonderful photographers contributing to our website, some awesomely so. I keep telling myself that my own photos are just to show and explain what is happening, and that if I come up with one I like as a photo then that's a bonus. It does happen sometimes ... twFrom: Horace Ward
Sent: 01 July 2005 18:46
Subject: Kent! The piece from the gentleman saying why no pictures at the other end of the line
Tony
Of course London is more 'exciting' because 95% of the passengers embark there...and it's nice to see these grand engines usually start from their 'Mother' stations when they were once young.
Regards
Horace
From: Tim Gray
Sent: 29 June 2005 21:44
Subject: Black 5
Hi Tony
Just a short video (1.7MB,
29th June 2005)
of the Black 5 on today's Cathedrals
Express
Regards
Tim Gray
(I attended a MHR
Advanced FPX in
October 2003, & I'm
a volunteer driver on the RH&DR)
From: Ben Zehetmayr
Sent: 27 June 2005 12:36
Subject: #45231 Alton-Fratton-Alton test, 26th June
2005
Hi Tony
I've attached two pictures from the test run yesterday taken at Fratton
while
we waited for the stock.
All things went well with no major concerns, certainly
Bert and Neil
looked happy when we got back
on shed.
Sounded great working back up the gradients to Guildford with the stock
and
diesel in tow!
Ben Z
| War
on the Line letters:
From:
Darren Jones and family One Two Three Four Five Six Seven
From: Richard Johns One Two Three Four Five Six Seven Eight
|
From:
Matt Oakley
Sent: 19 June 2005 22:26
Subject: Another day at Ropley!!!
Hi Tony
I had a good time at Ropley today (no thanks to a VERY full pit) and
was
glad to see my favourite engine the Standard 5 running along with
Bodmin and Canadian Pacific.
Bodmin and the Standard 5 were on service trains and Canadian
Pacific was on a catering train.
Rob Forster warmed up the 9F
for its
steam test on Monday
whilst Nick, Ross
and I attempted to clean out the pit (we didn't finish it!).
Matt
P.s Rubbish quality, NEED a new camera!!!
Matt and Nick are Rangers
at MHR ... tw
From: Bill Watts
Sent: 15 June 2005 22:39
Subject: Visit to the Watercress Line
G'day
I visited the Mid Hants Railway today for the first time in several
years,
my last visit being in 1991 just before we moved back to Devon.
I must say that the improvements to the station at Alresford have been
carried
out with some sympathy.
I took a lot of photographs today, and attached are some of your staff
for
your / their amusement!
Many thanks for an enjoyable day out
Bill Watts
One
Two
From:
Andrew House
Sent: 07 June 2005 19:11
Subject: A Grand Afternoon Out
I'm glad I came this afternoon. The
DMU
was waiting when I arrived, so I got a few photos and waited for some
steam.
While I waited, I had lunch at the station buffet (which was both
fantastic
and inexpensive) and did a spot of writing. It was so peaceful at the
station
I found it easy to write; the Mid-Hants Railway may replace StarBucks
as
my favourite place to write!
45231 came in, so I took a
photo (cropped
because I took the photo at a funny angle) and then walked over to the
road
bridge to film the train depart to Alton. Didn't know about the
foot/cycle
path, so I went the long way around and got a surprise to see Canadian
Pacific coming in to the station. Got another couple of
photos, but the
lighting wasn't great, sadly. My camera failed me as 45231 departed, so
I
missed a great opportunity: I'll have to return.
The best part is, from just outside Southampton, the entire public
transport
fare (all return tickets) was no more than £10! Bus to
Southampton station,
train to Winchester, then bus to Alresford. A bargain! Many thanks to
the
staff at Alresford station for a wonderful afternoon, and even more
thanks
to the buffet staff for a most enjoyable lunch.
I'll be back! Probably on Thursday.
Andrew House
From: David Charlesworth
Sent: 06 June 2005 20:55
Subject: Vintage bus service
Tony
Last Sunday was the second day of this season's Vintage Bus Service
from
Medstead. Perhaps because of the miserable 'flaming' June weather not
many
people took advantage of the two buses running.
Aldershot & District AEC
Reliance No.370,
now a Medstead Depot resident, is seen outside the station .
Ex-Eastbourne Corporation AEC
Regent III
No.42 pauses in front of Jane Austen's House in Chawton .
No.42 also ran last month and at Medstead appears to have been
converted for rail use
;-)
Meanwhile #45231 The Sherwood Forester coasts into
Medstead with a
train for Alton, seen here through
the yard
gates, which are normally closed.
The original track from the yard continued across the forecourt to the
merchant's
building opposite joining the remaining piece which No.42 is seen
standing
on.
Regards
David Charlesworth
From: Philip Hunt
Sent: 06 June 2005 23:38
Subject: MHR visit 13 March 2005
I emigrated to NZ from Guildford in'63.
This was my first visit back in nearly 42 years. I have been following
the
preservation movement, and by chance I heard of your 3 day weekend,
brought
a friend (who is more interested in aircraft) and we had a really
enjoyable
day. In fact I had to drag him away!
I took a good number of photos which came out OK (but not up to
publication),
rode about 5 trains, and generally wandered round, asked questions, met
many
like minded people, and had a meal at the Alresford buffet-superb!
I have been reading up your loco experience site, and hope to return in
three/four years and try out one. I have my boiler ticket from NZR
1964,
so have a little appreciation of steam loco operation. I have also
driven
steam ( in the yard when no one was looking!) and in more recent times
drove
a 1,500hp diesel electric on the main line with a 400 tonne train for
about
15 miles.
I should like to thank all your staff who were at all times very
helpful
and friendly, and knowledgeable; I learned many things that were
totally
new, and that is what made it so worthwhile.
I have been checking your website for several years so had a fair idea
what
to expect, and was not disappointed. The weather was quite cold, but
the
thrill took my mind off it!
With best wishes for more success at what you are working for.
Regards
Phil Hunt
P.S. I am a Bulleid man (he came from Winton, Southland, NZ) so seeing
Bodmin in such lovely condition was a real
highlight.
Sent: 05 June 2005 20:38
Subject: Thank you
Hi guys
I would just like to say how much I enjoyed my two weeks
Work
Experience down at Ropley MPD. Thank you for a
truly fantastic fortnight.
I pulled muscles that I never knew I had, in places I never
knew I had!!!
Special thanks to Rod, David, Pete and Frank for giving me the chance
to
experience life at the Mid Hants Railway. You should be proud that you
have
made me more determined to get a job in the railway industry once I
finish
school.
Thank you once again.
Kindest regards
Matthew Denison
From: Tony Hathaway
Sent: 03 June 2005 17:57
Subject: Picture for web page
Tony
Please find picture of Pat 'boss' Butler with his
40th birthday loco headboard
that was carried
on the Alton bound service Sunday 29th May 2005
Regards
Tony Hathaway
Pat is one of our volunteer loco drivers (amongst other talents) ... tw
From: Tim
Rayner
Sent: 31 May 2005 11:23
Subject: Old Ropley photos
Dear Mr Wood
I thought you might be interested in the enclosed, re-discovered over
the
long weekend during a clearout. They must have been taken in about 1979
or
so.
I doubt they'll be of sufficient quality for the railway's journal, but
if
they are would it be possible to receive a copy of the magazine?
Yours sincerely
Tim Rayner
Assistant Editor, Railway Modeller
One
Two
Three
Four See also
From: Kevin Jones
Sent: 30 May 2005 14:51
Subject: Alton 20th Anniversary
Hello Tony
We would like to thank everyone for making the Twentieth Anniversary of
Alton
re-opening a success. We had a really enjoyable day, my son
particularly
enjoyed the brakevan ride at Alton. Enclosed is a picture of Bodmin
passing through Ropley hauling the
Anniversary
Watercress Belle down
to Alresford. Feel free to use as you wish. Thanks again for a great day
Wendy, Kevin and Matthew Jones
From: David Chappell
Sent: 29 May 2005 15:23
Subject: Ivatt at Bluebell
Hi Tony
Not an action shot I'm afraid, taken at 09:20
this morning
Regards
David
From: John Cridland
Sent: 28 May 2005 16:12
Subject: 20th Anniversary
Have just returned from your 20th Anniversary day and as always, a good
time.
I am attaching a couple of pictures I took which you may wish to use.
Canadian Pacific waiting to leave Alton with the
first train and
Bodmin receiving some last minute polishing at
Ropley prior to heading
the special lunch train.
Regards
John Cridland
One
Two
From: Gavin & Elaine
Sent: 28 May 2005 15:35
Subject: Pennies?
Hi there!
I have just discovered your website, which brought back many happy
memories
of days on the Watercress Line I spent as a youngster when I lived in
England.
My kids especially enjoy the film clips of the engines on the site.
One query. When I was young I used to tip significant proportions of my
pocket
money into the collection box in front of "British India Line".
Did
that ever get restored, is it running, or is it now rusting somewhere?
I
have never heard any more of it since those childhood visits to the
Engine
Shed. Were all the Mars bars and Sherbert Dips I forsook at the station
shop
all in vain?!
Cheers
Gavin
British India
Line left MHR two years ago ...
tw
From: Peter Cutler
Sent: 26 May 2005 12:58
Subject: W21236
Hello Tony
Is it worth adding to your notes accompanying the photo of the
overhauled
coach, that it has been given orange
banding
as it retains its mainline certification?
Peter Cutler
Good
idea, Peter. The carriage has been renumbered
S21236 ... tw
From: Anthony Poulton
Sent: 23 May 2005 22:15
Subject: Diesel Gala 13-15th May
I would just like to say what a fantastic weekend it was with
a superb selection
of locos, friendly staff and at a reasonable price as well!
I have been meaning to become a volunteer
for the
MHR for some time but have always been reluctant to say I can do
something
which I then realistically cannot with the spare time I have, but this
excellent
event has finally pushed me over the edge! OK, so a certain Mr
Fairbrother
keeps telling me I should, as well as a certain Mr Davey! The thing is
though,
they're right; it's something I want to do and would no doubt enjoy it!
Best regards
Anthony Poulton
From: Jim Russell
Sent: 20 May 2005 18:34
Subject: ARMY EXERCISE MULBERRY
STEAM
Hi Tony
Now that the Army have departed we can give the full story of what it
was
all about. Not that any of their activities were classified but I'm
sure
most people would appreciate that the wide advertising of the presence
of
around 50 soldiers without the normal physical security that they have
around
them whilst in barracks could make them a 'soft' target for anyone, or
group,
ill disposed towards them.
My 'real' job is as the Regional Manager for the MoD's railways in
Southern
England (before I get inundated with requests for visits I'm afraid
that
the answer is "No" - my boss's decision which I respect and uphold).
The
Army are always looking for new ways to keep their skills up to date
for
the day when there is a crisis somewhere in the world and they are
deployed
to deal with it. The soldiers we have had working with us on the MHR
for
the past two weeks were a mixture of
Territorials and
Regular Army
(70% TA & 30% Regulars).
The TA belong to 275 Railway Sqn. and the Regulars belong to 79 Railway
Sqn.
I was approached early in 2005 to see if the TA could hold
their Summer Camp
on the MHR and conduct an exercise with their Regular Army colleagues.
The
offer was for the Army to do work for the MHR and in exchange we would
give
them railway operations training (Driving,
Firing, Guard, Signalling, etc.) and allow them to hold their
exercise,
codenamed Mulberry Steam. We held a meeting with
Frank Twine
(Infrastructure Director) and Bob Deeth (Operations Manager) and it
became
obvious that Frank had some sizable tasks he wanted to deal with but
lacked
the manpower, whilst Bob was happy to provide the operational
facilities
and meet the Army's training requirements.
We now have all of the life-expired sleepers in Platform 1 at Alresford
changed,
the up road at Ropley has been lifted and packed
with 3 tons of chippings
(glad I'm not in the Army!), a new siding laid in the yard at Medstead
for
goods wagon restoration, whilst two
engineers
have completely overhauled the brake rigging on one of our goods brake
vans
- and a superb job they made of it as well.
I have to admit to being a bit nervous about being the interface for
this
because if it went wrong not only would I have got the flack at the Mid
Hants
but also at work - the words 'Career' and 'Limiting' come to mind
:-)
As it happens it all went better than anyone's wildest dreams, with the
Army
keen to maintain the relationship with us. They even volunteered to
stay
over last weekend and help us with the Diesel
Gala by providing Shunters, Train Regulators, Locomotive
Diagrams, etc.
This seems to be one of those times where everybody wins and nobody
looses.
They were a great bunch to work with and it all seemed strangely quiet
today
without them.
Regards
Jimbo
From: Richard Kirwin
Sent: 19 May 2005 19:34
Subject: 08 288 and Mk2 coach
Dear Tony
I visited the Diesel Gala
for two days
last weekend, and am pleased to see Ian
Davey's photo of 08 288 on the correspondence page. The Mk2
brake behind
288 intrigues me - where did it come from to end up in that livery? I
recall
it running in a rag-bag set of stock at last year's Diesel Gala, but
thought
it might've been painted by now. That said, the Mk1s shopped at Ropley
in
recent times do look excellent (and are preferable to Mk2s anyday). Is
this
Mk2 a short term acquisition, or is it just waiting its turn, as these
things
have to?
Finally, was there a reason for just the two coaches behind the 08 on
Saturday?
Another would have made the journey more pleasurable, given how popular
the
trip was.
My thanks to all the volunteers who put in the hours to make the Gala
happen.
I hope the ticket sales reflect your efforts.
Regards
Richard Kirwin
The 08 was included at the request of our Diesel Gala customers, and on Friday ran with just one coach. The BFK was added next day from 'spare' stock because the 08's shuttle train proved so popular.
Duncan Richardson will be pleased when he sees your comments about Mk1 coaches recently outshopped. He finished another (BCK W21236) on18th May.
Mk2 (vacuum-braked) BFK 17089 was IIRC bought from East Kent Railway to serve as another support coach for main-line excursions. MHR has sold it to Fragonset together with the main-line-certificated Mk2 stock. Mk1s do seem more appropriate at MHR, I agree ... tw
From: Mike Reed
Sent: 19 May 2005 14:12
Subject: Over The Alps To Alton
Dear Tony
A postscript to my email on Monday about the Gala, whilst enjoying a
delightful
beaker of tea and a biscuit from your information stall at Alton, I
happened
to purchase a couple of old railway magazines from the '80s. By chance
and
strange coincidence, in a July 1981 edition of The Railway
Magazine
is an article with the above heading and a by-line stating: "Mid-Hants
aims
to restore link with the Southern Region electric by 1984"! An
interesting
article about the early days of the Mid Hants with a photo of Alton
Station
looking east, showing a 4 Vep in platform 1 and no run-round loop or
sidings
on the land to the right of platform 3. Also a small shot of Medstead
station,
somewhat overgrown and track lifted.
Not only that, in the same issue, in the news section, it announces
that
Lyme Regis station is to be demolished, the station building to be
re-erected
at Alresford! I never knew that. Did that happen and did the line reach
Alton
in 1984?
Regards
Michael Reed
MHR's West Country Buffet was constructed from Lyme Regis station buildings. Details here and here
MHR celebrates the 20th Anniversary of reaching Alton again: 28th May 2005. 1985 fares apply
More about Medstead & Four Marks station ...tw
From: Daniel Hillebrandt
Sent: 17 May 2005 22:37
Subject: Diesel Gala
Photos - Sunday
15th May 2005
Tony
Please find attached several photos from Sunday's Diesel Gala to use on
our
website.
37190 & 20001
create a cloudy
atmosphere in the early morning sun, 20001 having a spot of internal
cleaning!
37190
& 37401 head for Alton
47358 'Ivanhoe'
displaying
the tribute headboard to John Rooney
33 D6593
arriving at Ropley with
the first service train of the day
31108 passes SWT
bubblecar 900012
awaiting its next run to Alresford
37190 (my
favourite of the weekend)
displaying 'The West Highlander' disc
47303 'Cleveland'
which
had failed the day before, is finally running and in service and passes
sister
locomotive 47358 'Ivanhoe'
Western
Ranger about to arrive
at Ropley from Alton
37401 'The
Royal Scotsman' and
37190 double head a service to Alton
31128 works
its way across to the
yard at the end of the day, for a well earned rest!
Daniel Hillebrandt
Ropley Loco Works
Volunteer
From: Ian Banham
Sent: 17 May 2005 12:11
Subject: Bittern Valve Gear
Hi Tony
Having finally got round to looking at the diagram for this, I was
wondering
if you could answer a simple question?
The diagram it
shows the equal and 2-1
levers linking to the valves for the central cylinder - I presume this
is
what is meant by 'derived motion'. The valve itself is offset to the
left
but the centre crank is "central" - is the centre cylinder arranged
horizontally
to the valve rather than vertically, as in the two outside cylinders?
Or
is there another explanation?
Regards
Ian
I always reckon a picture tells the story best, Ian. Here there is a photo taken from under the front buffer-beam showing the middle cylinder valve arrangement ... tw
From: Nigel Wilson
Sent: 16 May 2005 23:05
Subject: Valve gear
Hello Tony
Concerning your letters on A4
Valve gear and oil baths.
I read with interest in The Gresley Observer recently
an account of
a lecture by B. Spencer to the Leeds Branch of the Institution
of Locomotive
Engineers, Nov 1923. In questions Mr J.F. Gibbs asked why no
mention
had been made of : “Worthwhile enclosing the valve gear and
adopting some
form of forced lubrication” He felt it might be worth:
“Following the practice
of the motor vehicle builder”.
Mr A Hird of the Hunslet Engine Co. commented that he: “Had
never heard of
any enclosing apparatus being entirely satisfactory”. Nothing
else to be
said really!
Best regards
Nigel
From: James Culver
Sent: 16 May 2005 20:31
Subject: Diesel Gala
Hi Tony
I would like to say how I enjoyed the Diesel Weekend apart from a few
mindless
people on the trackside, I
have enclosed a pic
to show you (and name and shame them). Can these people be
banned if
they turn up on the railway again?
I help look after the "Thumper" with Jim Russell and I do have a PTS
Card.
The locos performed great and I loved the sound of the
20's,31,33 and 37's;
shame they were not worked harder (most of the people who attend come
for
this reason - to hear the engines) but the line speed is
25mph.
Hopefully the railway can have the Diesel Galas twice a year
with 33025 and
33030 47004, 56006,58001, any 59 and 60081(if fixed) attending and 33/1
on
from pulling a Vep and 33/1 on rear pushing or 2x 73's. Totally
Southern.
Nothing is impossible; only have to ask EWS, DRS etc
Looking forward to next year's event.
Regards
James
From: Ian Davey
Sent: 16 May 2005 16:38
Subject: Diesel Gala 2005
Tony
I spent all three days as guard as usual this year. Some photos for
you:
On Saturday at Alton were trainee shunter
Richard Stevens and shunter Nigel Bulpitt.
On Sunday 47358 with John Rooney memorial headboard plus 47303 and
33208
await the last
departure of the day
(1650) from Alresford to Alton.
Just prior to this 08228
arrived with
2 coaches from Ropley.
Note that photos are taken from lineside: I was on duty as guard and in
possession of a current PTS card.
Ian
From: David French
Sent: 16 May 2005 12:22
Subject: Diesel Gala plus a rolling stock query
Hi Tony
I just want to echo the previous letters and say what a fantastic gala
it
was. The sight and sound of the Western on full song was worth the
ticket
price alone.
I do have a query about an obscure item of rolling stock: what has
happened
to the P/Way Dept's Permaquip
material
handling tug? It wasn't at its usual home in the sidings at
Medstead
(where I've seen it in previous years) and I couldn't see it either at
Alton,
Ropley or Alresford. Has it been tucked away out of sight somewhere? Or
has
it left the MHR altogether?
I would be most grateful for any information.
Many thanks
David
The Permaquip tug went permanently to the Ongar Railway two weeks ago, David. There's a photo of it on their website ... tw
From: Mike Reed
Sent: 16 May 2005 10:28
Subject: Diesel Gala
Dear Tony and all concerned
May I thank you for a wonderful event.
My son and I were there on Saturday and enjoyed every minute, even with
the
delays to the timetable which occurred as the day wore on.
I think the highlight had to be the appearance of the Western. I was
never
a real fan of Westerns in the old days but seeing it close up you have
to
say that she had a certain star quality. We were even allowed to "cab"
it
too, wonderful. 37190 was magnificent (the large logo livery does suit
37s)
as she growled her way from Alresford to Alton and saw her and 37401
engage
in some carriage shunting at Alton at the end of the day.
All the locos you had running were great. We will be back to the MHR
soon,
for some steam action perhaps.
By the way, I've just read the email from our disgruntled photographer
friend:
surely the pleasure of seeing all these locos is worth £15
whether you
elect to ride behind them or not. I hope he sees sense and returns some
time.
'Bye for now
Mike and Joseph
From: Mark Riddiford
Sent: 15 May 2005 17:47
Subject: Diesel Gala
Hi
Just like to add my thanks for what was a great Gala - arranging for
Ranger
to attend was an inspired move!
Just one question - why only once a year?
Regards
Mark
Thank you for your kind comments, Mark. Our present annual programme of events stretches our volunteer resources near to the limit, e.g. buffet car under-manning! Would anyone out there like to come and help us? ... tw
Hello
Nigel
I'm sorry you were disappointed.
Our special events are not just about travelling on our trains; if you
stay
as an observer at Ropley the action is continuous and exciting for all
enthusiasts, whether for our Thomas events, or for the steam or diesel
galas.
We pay a lot for the hire of locos and other overheads: we
could not otherwise
put on such superb events.
But you will
understand that we MUST make a profit to continue, and we reckon our
admission
charge is a bargain when compared to most other attractions.
We do publicise our policy at the beginning of the season.
Again, my apologies if the admission charge took you by surprise.
Best regards
tw
From: Des Shepherd
Sent: 14 May 2005 22:14
I feel I must respond to Nigel Edwards e-mail (14 May - Platform
Tickets)
There is a world of difference between preserved railways and the
national
rail network - a public service. The Mid Hants Railway, like any other
tourist
attraction is in the business of entertainment. That entertainment can
be
enjoyed not only by travelling but by sitting, watching (and
photographing).
I think it is perfectly reasonable to expect to pay more to be
entertained
at a gala weekend. There is more to see and enjoy. When I visit a
railway's
gala, I always purchase a travel ticket to show support, whether I use
it
or not. (This was the case at the West Somerset Railway's
spring gala
where I spent most of my time on the lineside).
Unfortunately, Nigel Edward's attitude, as put across in his e-mail, is
that
he expects something for nothing. Your comments are quite right. These
events
cost a lot of money to stage and we should be grateful that railways
such
as the Mid Hants take the financial risk to put on such shows. I don't
think
£15 is an unreasonable sum for entry to enjoy (in whatever way
one wants)
a gala.
Regards
Des Shepherd
From: Stuart J McQueen
Sent: 15 May 2005 11:11
I have just read the letter regarding platform tickets. I travelled up
from
Tavistock on the Friday and travelled ALL DAY for £15 -
very good
value and plenty of places to photograph.
I think a modest charge for photographers would be quite acceptable not
£15. I returned to Ropley early Saturday morning and at least
six people
were willing to pay a reasonable amount to take photos. Thus at
£5 a
head you have lost £30.
The ticket inspectors were very efficient; I had my ticket checked
eight
times during my travels.
All in all a VERY good day out and I will come for a fourth year next
time.
Just a suggestion: how about manning the Buffets on the trains?
Many thanks
S J McQueen
From: Colin Chambers, Chairman & CEO of
MHRplc
Sent: 16 May 2005 11:47
Subject: RE: PLATFORM TICKETS
Tony
I was on the barrier at Ropley on Friday & Saturday and only 3
or 4 people
each day objected to paying £15 to get in.
Most understood, and several commented on what good value the 3-day
pass
was.
Colin
From: mb
Sent: 13 May 2005 13:51
Subject: A4 valve gear
Hi Tony
Good to see that picture of the 2:1
conjugation
lever on the website
I seem to recall that when they used to set the valve gear on Gresley
3-cylinder
engines some depots often used to tweak the gear (probably
unofficially)
so as to give that characteristic ONE two THREE-four-five-six
syncopated
rhythm. It was said to give a better pull on the fire and improve
steaming.
Certainly anyone who ever listened to a V2 slogging up the 1 in 200 to
Potters
Bar with the evening fitted goods to York Dringhouses (600+ tons of
4-wheeled
vans and container flats) will never forget the sound. The trick didn't
seem
to work as well with double-chimney locos though. It probably wasn't
needed
because steaming was much better with the new arrangement. And
'Bittern' wasn't a Top Shed engine anyway, so I
suppose we won't be
hearing real Gresley rhythm on Medstead Bank.
Gresley's derived motion for the inside cylinder was probably among the
reasons
why Mr. Bulleid chose to put his chain-driven valve gear inside an oil
bath
where it was much more difficult for shed staff to tinker about with.
Martin
Keywords here are that Bittern WASN'T a top shed engine ... THEN. I reckon the 'trick' you ascribe to the quest for better steaming is more likely to have been slapdash fitting - of which there was much evidence on #60019! But it is going to be a world-beater when it comes out of Ropley, mark my words ... tw
From: mb
Sent: 13 May 2005 21:51
Hi Tony
60019 was a Gateshead 52A loco until it went up to Scotland for its
last
few years. Regular duty was to work up to London on an up overnight
sleeper
and return on 10.10 a.m. relief to the Flying Scotsman.
I don't think the tweaking of the 2:1 gear was just down to sloppy
fitting.
Peter Townsend, Shedmaster at 'Top Shed' (34A Kings Cross), was aware
of
the practice even if he didn't approve of it. If the crews believed it
worked
for them, then it worked.
Martin
From: Peter Cutler
Sent: 11 May 2005 11:36
Subject: Andy Crespin and others
Hello Tony
Nice to see that Andy keeps in touch with us. It’s a shame
that we lost his
expertise; he is a very good engineman both as a fitter and driver.
Although
I didn’t know him well, I have memories of a very happy day
spent in his
company.
During the period of swapping locos at M&4M in early spring
1986, due
to rail joint problems on the section to Alton, I was asked if I wanted
to
go up for driver training. In truth I didn’t, at that time. I
had been Syd
Weaver’s fireman for about six years and wanted to stay
firing for the time
being. Syd pointed out that if I turned the chance down our erstwhile
Loco
Super would probably not offer it to me again.
My first day was with Andy on the T9; not an easy machine for a novice.
One
odd feature was that the regulator was pushed away from the driver. At
one
point we were laying over in ‘Bennett’s’
siding and the loco started to roll
back. Andy calmly walked across the cab, stuck the steam reverser in
full
forward and opened the regulator. No panic. I actually have a photo of
him
and me on the footplate; a treasured keepsake.
In total I did three days. Two were on steam on the section from
Alresford
to Medstead and one on a diesel on the bit down to Alton. Of the three
drivers
one is now committed to main line operations with Tangmere,
one now
only works on The Belle and the other lives in New
Zealand, which
possibly says something about my driving!
...snip...
To end on a lighter note, one of the local blokes walked into Alresford
car
park last evening and saw the army
eight
wheeler with ‘275 Squadron RCT’ written down the
side and thought at first
it was a support vehicle for a visiting Bulleid.
Peter Cutler
Sent: 06 May 2005 14:19
Subject: Thomas
Hi Tony
Firstly, may I say thanks for three great days out (Easter '04, Summer
'04,
Easter '05) at the Thomas events !
Secondly, will the "real" Thomas be back in
operation for August 05?
My keen-eyed son spotted the differences on the replacement loco bought
in
for this year's Easter event, and even caught a glimpse of the "real"
Thomas being repaired in the shed
Look forward to coming back in the summer
Regards
Mike
Hello Mike
Glad you enjoyed our Thomas event, even with an
impostor in the leading
role! Can't fool your son, then!
The work on Thomas is extensive: his new firebox
has been made and
was recently delivered to Ropley (as you may have seen in our
loco shed pages and its
archives).
We need also to replace sections of the outer firebox, and repair some
corrosion
on the main boiler barrel. Then the long job is fitting all the firebox
stays
(which keep the inner and outer fireboxes from bulging apart under the
boiler
pressure) and the new smoke-tubes. All this will take time beyond
August,
so Thomas won't be back in service until next year.
If any of this
needs further explanation, have a look
here and
here noting that
Thomas, being
based on a shunting engine, runs on un-superheated (i.e. 'saturated')
steam.
You can follow the story at this page
which is stealthed so that Google etc., won't index it. The little ones
these
days are surprisingly computer-literate, but can still get distressed
if
they see Thomas - " ... with his lid off".
This week Douglas is 'stopped' because a
tyre has slipped. The paint marks show the fault. That'll
take a few
weeks to remedy because he'll need a full set of tyres.
How it's done
- follow relevant links
I hope this helps, and that your son is not too disappointed about the
August
event ... tw 06 May 2005 1453
From: Colin Fuller
Sent: 25 April 2005 19:31
Subject: Fwd: Fabulous
50s Weekend
Dear Tony
My picture of Big
Boy Bloater seems
to have disappeared from our web site. For something prettier, here are
photos
taken by Suzanne French showing her team
of lovelies: Cimmone,
Natalie, Hannah, Leanne and Sammie:
One
Two
Lots more people came yesterday and a grand time was had by all; the
American
cars were a great draw - after Miss
M
of course.
Best Wishes
Colin
From: James Menday
Sent: 23 April 2005 20:35
Subject: Visiting celeb today
Hi Tony
Pictures of visiting celeb today on railway for you
Cheers
Jim Menday
MVP
Video
One
Two
Three
From: Jim Russell
Sent: 21 April 2005 23:25
To: Tony Wood
Subject: Safety valve setting
Dear WWW.
I watched the video
regarding the setting
of CP's safety valves* with
some interest. How do you actually set them? I notice
Andy using some kind of
wrench.
Also why do Merchant Navy Class loco's have three
valves and West
Country only two? I seem to recall that when Bodmin
was first
running in the 1980's it was quite common to see both valves up at the
same
time, nowadays I can only recall seeing one valve up. Do they operate
at
different pressures or is the fact that there are more than one safety
valve
simply duplication in case one fails to lift?
Excuse my simple questions but I
only be a
diesel Driver you see, Sir.
Regards
Jimbo
Hello Jim
What Andy was doing was adjusting the blowoff pressure
for each valve.
Once that is set, the set-down (the time the valve
remains open) is
adjusted. Having lifted, the valve releases about 20 LB psi pressure
(on
a 3" valve). The separate valves are set at about the same pressure;
when
one valve lifts, the load is eased off the others. However, if the
boiler
is steaming at its maximum evaporative capacity and the regulator valve
is
quickly closed, the other valves are provided to release the extra
volume
of steam being produced. It is possible to defeat two valves on the
bigger
Merchant Navy boiler, so three are provided. To test
the third, one
or two of the other safety valves get gagged - i.e.
clamped shut.
Once the valves are set and the boiler passes its inspection, the
valves
are locked off so that they cannot be tampered
with.
If a fireman let his boiler blow off without good reason (e.g. the
train
is held by the guard and is late departing) this could be an
embarrassing
demonstration of lack of boiler control.
On reaching Ropley, an up train will still have a
bright fire; from
Alresford to a Ropley water-stop tests the fireman's control of the
boiler.
His fire, when prepared for immediate action, cannot be switched off
and
will produce steam, though nowhere near as much as when the engine is
chuffing
(technical term!). If two valves lifted, he'd find it hard to live down
among
any watching cognoscenti. To get three valves up together would be
extremely
rare.
There are a lot of cognoscenti at Ropley!
... tw
*(2.4MB) (20th April 2005): tw Pop-type safety valve More about boilers and fittings
From: Matt Allen
Sent: 18 April 2005 14:32
Subject: Pictures from yesterday
Hi Tony
Have been a bit quiet on the photo front as I've just moved house, but
I
managed to get out briefly yesterday: great weather; got a little lucky
with
there being three trains out.
I notice on the website that CanPac has had it's coupling rods
re-attached,
is it nearing completion? *
Thanks
Matt Allen One
Two
Three
* Yes
... tw
Hi
Keith &
Tony
Sent: 17 April 2005 12:58
Thanks for your very informative and rapid replies. Some of the
abbreviations
in the notes are 'Greek' but the diagram is fully understood and
similar
to what I expected. That one platform road was bi-directional was also
expected.
Thank you both for your time and sharing your knowledge with me
Trevor
From: Keith Brown
Sent: 16 April 2005 23:29
Subject: Re: Signalling
Trevor
I’m attaching a diagram
of the present-day
signalling at M+4M, with acknowledgements to Clive, who drew
it. There
is some historical material in this as things have changed a bit since
we
first put the signalling in. Hope this is helpful. Happy to go into
more
detail if anything appears Greek to you.
Keith Brown
Stationmaster, Medstead & Four Marks
On 16/4/05 5:02 pm, Tony Wood wrote:
Hello Trevor
If I remember correctly:
There is a distant signal on the down approach, and a gantry with two
home
signals and a dummy (for wrong side working) nearer to the station.
On the same post as the starter towards Ropley is a ground signal for
running-round.
The goods yard to the north of the running line has a series of ground
signals,
and there are signals for the sidings to the south of the running line.
On the up approach to M4M there is a distant, and a home
signal with a
dummy
(for wrong side working) on the post.
On the same post as the starter towards Alton is a shunting signal for
running-round.
I'll copy this e-mail to the stationmaster, whose knowledge about the
station
is unsurpassed. He may wish to correct or add to the above.
Also see ...
tw
-----Original Message-----
Sent: 16 April 2005 14:12
Subject: Signalling
Hi Tony
This month's Model Rail magazine (May 2005) has an excellent three page
article
on Medstead & 4 Marks station by Nick Brodrick. Really
authentic stuff
and a great help to modellers to get their models looking right. One
picture
of the inside of the signalbox shows thirteen red levers: therefore
there
must be that number of running and subsidiary signals. Only the Alton
direction
Starter is shown in any of the pictures. Where are all the rest? The
beautifully
drawn station track plan shows just about everything except signalling.
Since receiving this copy of the magazine I have found
various web
sites
covering the MHR. Nothing I can find covers this topic, not even in the
background of any of the photos. Can you help, or forward this to
another
member.
I would love to visit, but I live in the USA. Too far to drop in for
afternoon
tea.
Thanks
Trevor
From:
Castleman, Christopher D
Sent: 31 March 2005 13:14
Subject: Watercressline website, Loco Shed, picture
of Bodmin sans side rods
Tony
What's a gradient pin bush? Which one do you mean?
No pack-drill, I've never heard of this description on this sort of
valve-gear
before
Thanks, keep up the good work
Chris D. Castleman
On a loco with more than 4 driving wheels, e.g. 0-6-0, 2-6-2, 2-10-0, etc., the coupling rods (i.e. the side rods that link the driving wheels) need to be articulated to allow each individual axle freedom to move vertically (springing). Where the individual rods are joined, the hinge pin is called a gradient pin, and it fits in a replaceable bush of steel or bronze. One Two Three Four Five ... tw
From: Andy
Sent: 01 April 2005 11:03
Hi Tony
Well, you have got me on this one, as I have never heard of it called a
Gradient
Pin either !
It is generally known as a Knuckle Pin and joint, though I can see
where
your name for it might come from.
Anyway, keep up the good work on the locos and the website.
Cheers
Andy Crespin ( Member L54 )
New Zealand ( Ex MH driver & Zimbabwe Garratt fitter
)
I know nothing Andy, just that they call them gradient pins at Ropley: I'm told they are called knuckle joints 'oop North' .... tw
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