A thoroughly bleak day on site it was grey, wet, and raining almost nonstop. Ideal conditions, naturally, for crew refresher training.
The day started with much refuelling of the generator, and then refuelling the Baguley before refreshing on inspection, and starting procedures for the locomotive and the passenger train. Before heading out on the re-familiarisation runs ahead of the new season, with everyone handling the slippery conditions well.
While the train crews were out practicing, other volunteers cut the three 18‑inch‑gauge track panels in half for the Steeple Grange Railway, then continued work on the Wickham trolley.
After lunch, two new trainees had their first turns at guarding and driving duties and both performed strongly.
While two volunteers made temporary repairs to shed 83E, then helped the others lift and fix the second main end panel onto shed 83D. Final adjustments will follow mid‑week, but the heavy work is complete. A quick response was also needed at Long Walk loop, where a set of points wasn’t fully throwing; tightening loose retaining nuts restored normal operation.
While all of that was going on, the tamper was restored to working order with a new engine and the rail clamps were refurbished. Despite the weather, it was solid progress towards opening up for the 2026 season.
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