Work in Progress: 22nd October

Yet more sleepers!

Work in Progress: 22nd October

Given how busy the railway has been, it should come as no surprise that after over 10 years of operation our regular inspections of the running line has identified several sleepers requiring replacement. So today, one group of volunteers headed off to Killington Lane to set about replacing sleepers in between trains.

1. Just up from Killington Lane, a new sleeper is installed.

2. General Manager Martyn Budd bars in the new sleeper at this location, with Dave Robinson and Martin Williams assisting. (The track gang also included Mike Corner, Don Wood and Roger Bye.)



3. A distant view as ISAAC begins the climb from Killington Lane with the 11:30 departure.

4. After a shunt operation on Monday, Heritage Carriage No.16 is now in the paint shop to receive a touch-up to its paintwork as part of the winter maintenance schedule. Today, Nigel Thompson was assisting with this project.

5. Dave Evans begins rubbing down the L&BR livery, whilst resident expert painter and signwriter Jim Pounds (6.) will oversee the programme.

7. AXE was steam-tested today in preparation for another round of Footplate Experience Days over this weekend.

8. ISAAC at the head of the train at Woody Bay.

9. Guard Bob Ayres poses with the Token and pouch.

10. Fireman Julian Sinclair with ISAAC.

11. ISAC's driver today Neil Marshall also volunteers at the Mid Hants Railway.

12. Graham Varney was busy today cutting up redundant and damaged pallets for firelighting.

Words and photos 4-12 by Nigel Thompson. Photos 1-3, Roger Bye.