Wednesday 29 November 2017

A door opening very slowly ...


(Pic copyright Rail Thing/Steve Sainsbury)


Way back in 2009, when the New Somerset and Dorset Railway was formed, we were living in a very different world! Roads still seemed to be in the ascendant, and rail enthusiasm was still considered a tad eccentric.

Things have changed a lot in 8 years! Rail reopenings are gathering pace and some interesting closed lines are coming into the spotlight. One of course is the S&D!

I got an early morning phone call today from Radio Solent who had got the press release from the government re rail reopenings. I was invited to do a piece for the 11.30 am slot, live! I managed to wing it without stuttering or swearing, the net result being that the New S&D got yet more publicity and I managed to name check all five restoration groups along the route. I also managed to name check all the bigger places en route (Blandford, Sturminster Newton, Wincanton, Midsomer Norton and Radstock), all of which will benefit enormously in so many ways when the line returns.

That door is opening very slowly. Real energy crunches are still a way off, but already the rail restoration movement in all its variety is beginning to move into the mainstream. The important thing is to organise LOCALLY, so your line gets a profile. Most Beeching closures should be reversed over the next few decades, but there will be inevitable shortages of cash, materials and manpower as restoration picks up. 

Please do your bit!

(Pic is Ropley on the Mid Hants Railway back in 1976, now totally restored and transformed ...)

Saturday 25 November 2017

Today at Midsomer Norton


The station.


Coal wagon (static exhibit)


The museum


Signalbox and greenhouse


Signalbox


'David Cook'


The line heads south


The station



The line to the right is the start of great things for the future!


Trip down to Midsomer Norton South station today, always a treat!

I was attending one of the twice yearly joint trusts' meeting, to which all S&D revival groups are invited. It's always good to meet up with others who, between them, have done so much to make a revived S&D possible. A great deal of positive stuff was discussed!

After the meeting I had a quick walk around the site - we'd just experienced a Mendip hail and sleet shower so it was freezing - and got some fresh pics of the site. The museum is VERY impressive, it used to be an old workshop/store for the line and is now a real credit. I'd like to have walked the whole length of the relaid line but have an issue with my leg so could only make the end of the platform. Hopefully next time ...