Work in Progress: 5th May

That's better - sunnier, warmer and busier …

1. ISAAC has been this week's locomotive. Driver Doug Mills brings ISAAC into Woody Bay ready for today's first train.

2. On display outside the shed are CHARLES WYTOCK and AXE. All ready for next weekend's Spring Gala.

3. Thursday group volunteer Don Wood drew the short straw today. His task; to move the locomotive ash by wheelbarrow down to further make up the woodland walk paths.

4. What's going on here? It's a sleeper changing job on the loading dock siding. It took several guys to drag out the rotted sleeper.

5. After modifications and testing, this Tyer's Tablet Machine is returned to the signal equipment cabin. Trevor Buck and Don Newnham position the machine onto the shelf.

6. Tony Cross - who was on duty in the Booking Office/Shop today - making the most of a quiet period by enjoying the sunshine.

There was much other activity today, including; laying new sleepers lineside - ready for the next batch of sleeper replacement. Also, a variety of engineering work in the shed on Drewry diesel loco PILTON.  Other work included preparations for the forthcoming Gala weekend.

Words and photos by Nigel Thompson