Hi all. Today, in order to escape the family for a short while as they enjoyed in the fabulous Royal Wedding, the 5" gauge railway at Coventry Model Engineering Society was pressed into service to provide some welcome entertainment. The 'RPMR', as it is known, was open to members today so that engines could be given a run; wether they were club-owned or privately so. I must admit, the turnout was better than any I have seen in some years. I counted at least 12 locomotives touching down on the track, from the smallest of 3.5" tank engines to the biggest of 5" gauge electrics and tendered steamers. The action at the steaming bays was non-stop, right from the 10am start time, and it continued after we left! Below, 4 engines wait on the steaming bay, with a marshalled train waiting on the run-up-rail nearby...
Amongst many other engines, we had two 3.5" loco's present; a Class 1F 'Molly' and a 'Princess Marina'; owned by Eddie Jones; which is a Stanier Mogul 2-6-0. From the 5" range we had a; 'Butch', 'Pansy', two LNWR Precursors (see later), a Bagnall, Class 37, a Dock Shunter, a 'Sarah Siddons', an RC 0-4-0 electric and a RoR 'Hercules'. The stalwart 'Butch', owned by Mr Farr, which always runs like a well-oiled sewing machine, can be seen getting up a head of steam below... 
'Pansy' (Pannier Tank) "Victoria", wearing her lovely GWR Green livery, experienced a few problems early on but seemed to be running fine after some minor attention. 5717 on the bay... 
Now, some say; tongue in cheek; that there is "Only one Great Western, and thats the North Western". Well, I can truly say hand on heart that I do like the Great Western engines; I really do. But, the fact remains, that pre-grouping designs, like those of LNWR, were arguably way ahead of their time. LNWR engines were indeed very big for their era, usually baring huge wheels with plenty of ability for speed. After all, fast journey times from London to the North were required and, in these days of still-rather primitive lubrication, the bigger the wheel meant the better the running; surely! The LNWR developed the 'Precursor' Class as a fast passenger 4-4-0, keeping a tender behind for better running on longer journeys which required more capacity. However, the design was so successful that the LMS, after the amalgimation, built a Tank Engine version. Today, the 'newest' engine in CMES was enjoying her first ever steam outing...
This beautiful LNWR Precursor Tank, built by Mr M Sweatman, was a pleasure to see and ran beautifully. Check out that cab detail...
With the Tank in the background, the RC 0-4-0 (+ owner) is readied for running...
The 'mad' brother even managed to bag a drive; on the club's 37 electric...
Of course, I had a drive on the 37 too but, though it echoes usefulness, it isn't anywhere near as interesting as the steamer. Luckily, Colin offered me a drive on his fabulous engine, which is incidently the tendered version of the Precursor. I've driven this engine many times before and its always a joy. You never have trouble with steam, or with water, and the bark is fantastic. Never a problem on LNWR?! I must admit, I do really like this one...
Just two quick clips below of me driving the tendered Precursor...Some Royalists, ay?...
All in all, a fantastic steam up at CMES and well done to the guy above (Mr Wilson) for organising it; a great morning. Now its time for home; we have a party to be at by 13:00! (And to see the newly weds on the balcony of Buckingham Palace at 13:30 of course!). Thank you for reading everyone. Whats coming up tomorrow; a 5am start at Shackerstone on GWR No3803...(yawns begin). Good Day all...
Hello all. Today, whilst writing an essay for work, I decided that I could do so by watching a train pass by on my 00 gauge Garden Railway. Black 5 No45156 "Ayrshire Yeomanry" was hauling a heavy Midday Freight Train of over 20 assorted wagons. Below, the Class 5 climbs away from Grantham towards Sutherland, crossing the rockery on the 90-degree, climbing route... 
Just a very short one today folks, and now a 2-day or so 'train free' break until Friday. For those interesting in finding out more about the Garden Railway, why not search 'Sutherland Steam Railway' in the blog's own Search Box or even on Youtube? Even better, why not email me or comment on this post? I'm always happy to answer any questions readers may have. Thank you everyone. Sam.
Hi everyone. Well, after a great day on the B1 No1306 "Mayflower" at Shackerstone yesterday, I was rostered on her again today. Arriving at Shack at 5:45am again today, I wandered down the quiet driveway where I found the Railway Cat waiting for her morning feed. She walked with me down to the Signing On room and then on towards the shed where I opened up and then fed her. I then opened the main door and checked around 1306 before carrying out a few little jobs. At 6:30am, the rest of the team turned up, and we got 1306 outside. I broke up some wood and we all passed it up onto the footplate. Usually, 1306 uses 2 pallet's worth of wood when lighting up. Once lit, we all set to cleaning the engine again; as we did so yesterday. Today we worked even quicker and the loco was shining and ready to go off shed by 9:10am; a further 20 minutes earlier than yesterday! I think this is the earliest we've ever gone off shed for an 11:15 train! With the B1 ready, we took her off shed and waited in Platform 1 with her. In the meantime, we all got changed and did various little jobs like tidying up. With so much spare time once again, there was time to take a few more images! The gleaming cab side on 1306...
"Mayflower" in Platform 1, the shining boiler barrel always amazes me...
"Morning at Shackerstone": 1306 rests in Platform 1 as the sun rises over the trees...
During her recent overhaul, 1306 had all of her wheels, including her bogie, turned. As well as this, her rear driving wheels have been fitted with small lubricators. These small graphite cartridges are fitted into a spring-loaded casing and then the tip of the cartridge is pressed against the inside of the wheel flange. The graphite paste lubricates the flange and aids going around corners. The other B1 was fitted with these when she went up onto the Fort William - Mallaig line which has very tight curve for an engine with such big wheels. The Drivers-side graphite lubricator is spotted below... 
Up in the cab, "Mayflower" was reading around 200psi, more than enough to pull a train (full pressure is 225psi). However, with no work for another 90 minutes yet, I continued taking pictures. Below, the Drivers controls. You can just see the regulator poking in from the right-hand side with the braking and reverser controls visible in the centre...
1306 with her equally gleaming tender at Shackerstone...
"The Road Ahead"...shame we can't go down to Coalville or Ashby!...
"The blazing inferno": 1306's fire sits rather quiet as we await departure time at Shackerstone; note the traditional Great Northern-type Flap firehole door...
"The wheels of time"...
Well, at about 10:30am we decided to get "Mayflower" onto the train and couple up and water up too. After these jobs were complete, we waited another 30 minutes before receiving the 'Right Away'; on time; with the 11:15 train. 1306 strolled through the beautiful Leicestershire countryside as the morning sun shone. At Market Bosworth, we picked up my family before taking them to Shenton, and then back to Shackerstone. There, my girlfriends family also joined the train, along with my family; all of which returned to Shenton on the 12:30 train. Before the 12:30 though, we had to add an extra coach to the train, making a 5-coach set; as reports from Shenton indicated a crowd. As expected, the day got busier and busier and seemed very successful with many people using the trains. Many passengers also commented on the shiney nature of the beautiful B1. Well, after all, she probably is the cleanest operational engine in preservation, with Pannier No9466 not far behind! After our 5 round trips, we were ready for home so we disposed "Mayflower" and locked her away in the shed. 3803 is out next weekend whilst 1306 takes a well earned break. The B1 will be next out during our 'Models Weekend' at the end of May. Why not come and see her then? Thank you all. Now, unfortunately, after two 4:30am starts, I need some sleep! Goodnight all...
Hi everyone. Well, what a day. Today, on Easter Sunday, I was reunited with the beautiful LNER B1 No1306 "Mayflower". The loco, having only returned from Birmingham on Wednesday; following a bottom-end overhaul; looked fabulous when I arrived at Shackerstone Shed at 5:45am. Unlocking the shed door, I found the lovely LNER lady simmering away inside, still with 40psi 'on the clock' from yesterday. After feeding the Railway Cat, myself and James prepared ourselves for some cleaning. Just then, the rest of the team; Steve and Neil; arrived. First, myself, James and Steve fetched and broke up some wood whilst Neil cleared the fire grate. Neil then shunted the loco outside before we piled the wood onto the footplate and Steve lit the fire. Once burning nicely, we all set to cleaning the engine. Even though she ran yesterday and during Friday's 'proving runs', 1306 wasn't that dirty but, nonetheless, alot more cleaning doesn't go a miss! With our great team working non-stop, we had the loco ready for action by 9:30am; 1 hour and 45 minutes BEFORE the first departure! This is unheard of really; we could have stayed in bed for another hour! Anyway, with 1306 ready, myself, Neil and Steve got changed before sitting with the engine and a few of her other helpers. Neil then took her around and onto the front of the waiting 4-coach train. We soon coupled her up and added a little more water to the tender before awaiting departure quietly. Below, 1306 is ready to go "off shed" at 9:25am, notice that she is wearing a Disk rather than a Lamp today... 
With so much time spare, there were a few moments to grab a few shots; unfortunately only on my phone as I didn't take my camera! The lovely Fireman's-side nameplate...
"Welcome Home"; 1306 prepares to depart Shackerstone with the first train of the day; the 11:15am...
The more observant of you will notice that 1306 is now Shackerstone-facing again. This, as well as being a nice change, allows the chimney to be poked out of the shed on rainy days, allowing the rest of the engine to be cleaned in a smoke-free environment; thus not allowing soot to stick to the paintwork in the wet conditions. Some may remember that 1306 was north-facing before her visits to the North Norfolk and Llangollen railways back in 2009, when she returned to Shackerstone south-facing. I must admit, she rides so much better facing this way, and the picture locations are much better too. Our first two trips of the day were fantastic and it was a pleasure to travel on 1306 again; particularly in the lovely morning light. At least it wasn't as hot as yesterday; thank goodness! Below, 1306 prepares to depart Shenton on the 1:05pm for Shackerstone, wearing two Disks...
"Wow"; 1306 awaits departure at Shenton...
On the third trip, half of my family (8 in total) joined us on the return run to Shackerstone; the 2:20pm. Mum even joined us on the footplate after an invite by Neil; thanks for that Neil! We had a good run back to Shackerstone with mum riding in the Fireman's seat. I think she enjoyed it; though I think she was in fact worried about catching fire! I do forget how unusual steamers are in terms of the heat when viewed by a 'footplate newby' as it were! Anyway, we managed to get mum to Shackerstone without catching light so a successful trip. The family then took a look around the station whilst we took 1306 around the train ready for the 3pm trip to Shenton, which the family also rode on, mum this time taking the 'safety' of the cushions! I really appreciate Neil giving mum a ride; now she might understand what I mean when I say "its pretty hot on there"! After dropping the family off, we returned to Shack before running round again and taking coal and water. We then left on the 4:15pm with a little bit of time to make up. Below, "Mayflower" roars away from Hedley's with black smoke poaring from the 'Western Wedge' blazing in the firebox!...
After a quick run-round at Shenton, we made it back to Shack 'right on time'. Now, you can't tell me thats not good time-catching! Earlier on, before the last trip, "Mayflower" is coaled at Shackerstone, on the loading ramp. This drew quite a big public crowd, mainly because seeing 1306 at 'floor level' gives an insight into her massive size, particularly her wheels. After all, when viewed from the platform she looks half the size! (C = D.Hanks)... 
Well, after our last trip, we took "Mayflower" to bed and disposed. We then locked up the shed for the night, with 1306 still simmering away quietly to herself. After a chat and a cooling drink with the others, I left Shack at 6:30pm (12 hours, 45 minutes after I arrived!). When I got home, I could hardly open my eyes; need an early night before tomorrow...when I'm on 1306 again!! Thanks all. Goodnight...
Hi all. Well, this afternoon was FAR TOO HOT! After spotting "Britannia" on the main line through Banbury this lunchtime, I headed back to CMES at Ryton Pools Country Park. It was a normal working afternoon and various jobs were taking place. I myself aided Eddie, Colin and Reg in putting out many 'Fire Buckets' in preparation for tomorrow and Monday's running. We will be using a steam engine; "Jodie" the 0-4-0 is rostered in fact; as well as the electric Class 37 and therefore, due to the very hot weather, 'Fire Buckets' are very necessary. For haulage, we used both the 37' and the Bo-Bo Petrol Hydraulic; after all, water is heavy! As well as our little job, Emma and Roy were working on the steaming bays whilst Peter, Jim, John etc were busy working on the passenger coaches. Derek, Dave and Pete were also about, doing various tasks. Eric and Gary meanwhile were working on some warped bridge flooring. If I've missed anybody then I'm very sorry! After our jobs, and a few others, we all had a cuppa' before leaving. Thanks all. I may pop up to CMES next Friday for the morning steam up and then of course for my crew turn on May 8th. Evening all...
Hi everybody. Just a short one here. In the hot morning light, I headed along the A423 'Oxford Road' in the Saxo. I was hoping to find an ample location from which to film or photograph 70000 "Britannia" as she tore through on a main line excursion northwards. The loco was due to stop at Leamington, and Warwick, bound for Stratford. However, the closest location to us, as I saw it, was 'Fosse Road', where the Network Rail line crosses the Fosseway just outside Harbury. However, this isn't great; at all; so I looked at Leam station. But, allas, parking in the town on a Saturday is always a nightmare; especially with weather like this. So, I had to look further south. There were some bridges but, many of these didn't offer good views, and they were all straight track areas so a frontal image was the only choice. Therefore, Banbury Station, right in the heart of the town, was the only choice. So, I drove on. Arriving in Banbury only 5 minutes before 70000's 12:03pm passing time, I quickly parked the car in a '30-minute stay' zone and literally ran up to the station bridge. Unfortunately, the light was bad; far too bright with sunlight; and the location wasn't great either. But, with no time to find another place and smoke on the horizon; this was it. "Britannia" roared around the bend and through the platform with a heavy train running north. She sounded great, but then a Fire Engine; sirens blaring; came up behind! Oh well, at least I've seen her; running that is; last time I saw her was at Crewe, as just a boiler. In fact, below, we see Pete Waterman chatting about the importance of the Brit's £750K repairs...
Riddles' famous Britannia Class was led by the pioneer loco; 70000 "Britannia". They were a powerful (Class 7) express passenger engine, and the first of the BR Standard's. In total, 55 Brit's were built, two of which were preserved; "Britannia" and 70013 "Oliver Cromwell"; also a main line certified loco and based at the GCR; an NRM engine. "Britannia" herself was built in 1951 and only worked for 15 years before being withdrawn in May 1966; a terrible waste in my eyes. A bit of a trivia about 70000: for some years, she carried a white cab roof to commemorate that she hauled King George VI's funeral train in 1952. When withdrawn, it was hoped that "Britannia" would become an NRM loco due to her significance. However, it was not be as the museum preferred sister "Oliver Cromwell" due to the previous being a 'prototype design'. Therefore, 70000 was bought by a society and later sold to Pete Waterman. Waterman later got rid of the engine and sold her to Jeremy Hosking; a man who owns many other big name engines such as "Nunney Castle", "Braunton", "Royal Scot" and "Bittern" (plus more!). "Britannia" has now of course returned to main line work (in striking BR Black) and is proving very popular following the completion of overhaul in Autumn last year. My short video clip from today is spotted below...Well everyone, following the spotting of "Britannia", I returned to Coventry via the M40, on route to CMES at Ryton-on-Dunsmore. I hope you enjoyed this short post. Thanks folks. Good Day...
Hi everyone. Firstly, I'm sorry that the Garden Railway may become a bit of a 'blog regular' with the recent fantastic weather but, hey, that's what I've been doing! Today, with the particularly beautiful spring weather, I couldn't resist getting the trains out again for another few runs. With the track checked and all of the buildings laid out, the locomotive's were prepared and readied for their running. The first train ran at 12:45pm and the last ran at just gone 5pm. It was a lovely few hours in the garden with alot of 00 gauge action. I've just included a few pictures for your enjoyment, I hope you find them interesting. The trains which ran today were compiled of both short and longer freight trains as well as various passenger outings. Passenger rakes included GWR, LNER and of course BR, running alongside our LMS stock. First picture: Hornby Class 0F "Smokey Joe", one of the most famous of the Hornby range, hauls a long freight along the line through Grantham. The open back cab would be nice on a day like today no doubt!...
As well as our own stock, the railway also hosted a visitor today; LNER A4 Pacific "Mallard". This Tender-driven Hornby model is owned by a family member, and found its way onto my railway after some careful negotiations! I do have my own "Mallard" model, except mine is in LNER Gartar Blue, whereas the visitor wears BR Blue with no skirts...
Not the usual A4 task but, hey, the job needed doing! The A4 blasts up Ashford Bank on the steep incline towards the Turntable Junction. The loco is hauling a lengthy freight train made up of various private-owner wagons. The workmen are still at work on the Junction area following a recent drainage problem... 
Up at Sutherland, the sun was warming up the platform nicely. Meanwhile, trains were in regular action, with stopping passenger trains picking up and setting down passengers at leisure. In between the passenger runs, the freight train operations were nothing short of intensive. Austerity No68075 barks up the Sutherland Bank with another freight for Ashford Jnc...
Sutherland-regular; GWR 0-6-2 56xx; No6600 strides through Ashford Jnc, under the gantry, with the GWR Rake, which also included the Pullman 'Devon Belle' Observation Car...
A scene not spotted before at Sutherland; an LNER A4 wearing BR Blue, descends into the platform with our 4-car LNER Teak Rake. The spotters were all out for this one...
Another unspotted scene; well, for some time at least; my LNER B12 4-6-0 No8578. This delightful Hornby 4-6-0 was one of the railway's pioneer loco's. She hauled the very first passenger train on June 1st 2005, when the line was only a short oval. Since then, more and more loco's have joined the fleet and so, unfortunately, the B12 has been given less and less work over the years. However, today, 2 years or so since she last turned a wheel, I decided to give her a trip out. Strong as ever, she ran perfectly. So, who knows, we may see more of her in the future! The loco, wearing the name "Prince Palatine", climbs into Ashford with a slow, long freight...
Later on, the trademark shot is seen, outside the "Dew Drop Inn" at Sutherland. "Prince Palatine" prepares to undertake her first passenger train in nearly 2 years...
Down at Ashford, the highlight of the day; two A4's together (unfortunately both "Mallard"!)...
Mind you, the above images do show the differences between the 'BR A4' and the original A4. Which is better? In my opinion, both have their own right. "Sir Nigel Gresley" has always looked fantastic as the BR Blue version. However, for me, though she even wore BR Green, "Mallard"s colour should always be Gartar Blue; to remind us of the day when she travelled at 126mph and became the 'Fastest Steam Locomotive in the World'. Anyhow, as the day wore on, we even needed to move the loco's back towards the shed so that they could be collected. One such movement is seen below. What an unusual combination, as Pannier No5775 is piloted by Battle of Britain Pacific "Winston Churchill"!...
Below, you will see two short video clips which I have included for your interest; 'just to give an idea' as it were. Firstly, the BR Blue "Mallard" makes an appearance on the Ashford straight. Secondly, the GWR 0-6-2 chugs through Sutherland on the Great Western rake... Thank you all for reading and I hope you have enjoyed this rather mundane post. We had a lovely afternoon today in the garden watching the trains go by. The family, as always, seemed to enjoy it very much. Mind you, we did have the weather! Evening All...
Hi everyone. I hope you are all well and feeling patient as, I tell you now...this may be a long one! Today, after a text on Friday morning, I was to be crewing GWR 2-8-0 Heavy Freight No3803 at Shackerstone, with Mic and Mark. 3803 arrived at Shackerstone from the lovely South Devon Railway at Buckfastleigh last month. She will be staying with us for at least 1 year and will completing a number of day's out on the railway, hauling our passenger trains. Today was my first go on the engine and, suffice to say, I was really looking forward to it. Arriving at Shackerstone at 5:50am, with Mic on board, we unlocked the gates and coasted down the drive. After collecting our things we 'signed on' before heading down the yard into the Loco Works. Inside, "Sir Gomer" was in slumber whilst 3803 was napping warmly at the front of the shed. We clambered up onto the footplate and checked the water and firebox. Mic then lit the loco up whilst I put the kettle on. Cuppa' in hand and loco lit, we awaited the arrival of the Driver; Mark. I must admit, these early mornings do kill me (the things we do for the love of steam engines, ay?!). Anyhow, Mark and Andy (the double-booked drivers!) turned up at just gone 6:30am and we all prepared the loco as a team. Mind you, she is a beast; at 8F classification. Today, unusually, we were due off shed at 9am as we had a 'Drive a Loco' Experience Course to complete before the first sheduled service at 11:15. These courses allow the participant to take the loco to Market Bosworth and back light engine, before taking the stock out for a full-line return trip. With the loco cleaned and ready, the participant joined us right on time. We then took the loco out, or 'he' did I should say, for a run to MB and back. "Oh what a beautiful morning!", 3803 returns to Shackerstone past Hedley's, light engine... 
I fired the light engine trip as Mic said I should try and get used to the engine. After all, I'd never even been on her down the line, let alone fired her. So, I set to and got the shovel going. To be honest, on a light trip, you don't need much coal. If an engine hasn't got enough steam to even move itself then you are doing something wrong! The first trip went well, the participant seemed to be enjoying himself; and thats what its all about after all! After the light run, we took 3803 down into Platform 2 and coupled her up to the 4-coach train (child's play for a big '8'). With the 'Right Away' at about 10am, the trainee Driver took us out of Shack and up the bank towards Barton and, eventually, Shenton. Mic fired this run, in case we needed alot of steam. 3803 chugged beautifully out of Shackerstone with the stock, I can see today being a very good day...
Down the line, we sailed through Market Bosworth; 3 miles from Shack and 1.75 miles from the terminus at Shenton. Market Bosworth will be open for the next two weekends (Easter & Mayday), and passengers will be able to join the train there and break the journey in either direction. The station really has transformed over the last few years...
After the 'Foot-Ex', we got the loco back off the stock and took her into the shed to do some more checks before the 5 public services began (you can never be too careful!). During the first trip of the day, the 11:15am, I was to be the Fireman. All I can say is; "Wow. What a dream". 3803 is such a forgiving and easy to fire locomotive. With a 27ft square grate, I was a little apprenhensive to start with but, in the end, she was a dream and I think I picked it up pretty quickly. What a beautiful machine. Main spots to watch are the sides of the firebox and the top of the slope down to the tubleplate; the fire seems to thin here the most. But, if you keep filling the holes in, you're fine. The firebox is so big, and the boiler so large, that any faults in the firing are usually compensated; providing they aren't too big a fault that is! No fire will mean no steam as with any engine of any size; the loco can't save you! Down at Shenton, after a successful trip, and with a thin fire, we ran round the loco round. Once recoupled to the train, Mark and Mic discuss GWR vs. LMS in the sunshine... 
Below, we can see a quick shot of the cab backhead. The regulator can be clearly seen in the centre (the red lever). You can also see the pressure (t.l), steam heat (b.l) and vacuum (t.r) gauges. At the top of the image are the two injector steam valves, with their copper feed pipes leading downwards. You can also clearly spot the gauge glass, and test cocks. The blower is the central-right handle, with the hydrostatic GWR lubricator beneath. The Western firebox doors are at the bottom with the cylinder drain taps bottom-right. On the bottom-left you can also just spot the three Damper door handles ("yes, three on this machine...front, back and centre"!). Finally, the brake lever is the brass one on the right, near the top. This valve gives application and running positions. The ejector, unlike on 5542, is not built in. The ejector handle can be seen just to the right of the brake valve, as per pre-dual GWR design. Thats about it really; a simplistic backhead on an ageing lady. A lovely big footplate... 
I fired the return of the 1st trip, and Mic took the 2nd round trip whilst I took pictures and generally surveyed the view. Of course, I also had to look out for crossings, couple up, uncouple, change lamps, change points; as per usual. 3803 gets away from Shenton beautifully, under a cloud-clad blue sky...
"Perfection at Shenton"...
On the way back, I managed to get a few video clips of us 'on the run'. First video shows 3803 leaving Shenton and continuing up the embankment towards Far Coton, with Mark Driving and Mic Firing. The second video shows us leaving Market Bosworth, and heading through Carlton towards Hedley's. Sorry for the wind noise; it is breezy at 25mph, and of course these videos were taken on my 'still-image' camera!...Back at Shackerstone after the 2nd trip, we ran the loco round and watered up. 3803 in Platform 2, at the column... 
"Tranquility at Shackerstone"...
Once watered, we took 3803 down onto the train and coupled up, ready for the 3rd trip (of 5) of the day. Below, I sit awaiting departure on the footplate of the beautiful 3803 (C = D.Hanks)... 
Third trip of the day and we're off down the line, with me on the shovel and Mark on the regulator. Another fantastic trip; 3803 is the best engine I've ever fired; seriously! Though she is big she is just so pleasant and forgiving. You don't have to over-fire, you can just sit back, relax, and through a few shovels on now and again.If you make alot of smoke, you've over-fired. Below, you will see the first images that someone has ever taken of me actually firing on the footplate! Firing the front left corner on 3803 (C = D.Hanks)...
Once ran round at Shenton, attention must again be paid to the fire. Western's always like a big back-end to be made, particularly in the back corners and under the firehole door. Elsewhere, a level fire will be fine, as long as you keep the tubeplate area covered and the holes filled. Remember, on 3803, holes generally form down the sides and at the top of the sloping grate section. Below, I fire the centre of the box, filling in a hole (C = D.Hanks)... 
3803 awaits departure with the returning 3rd trip of the day. What a beautiful machine. You can just make me out on the Fireman's side (C = D.Hanks)...
I fired the returning 3rd trip too, with Dave joining us on the footplate again. Back at Shack, we ran round (AGAIN) and then prepared for the 4th trip, which I fired to Shenton, and Mic fired back. What a great day indeed! Pulling back into Shackerstone after the 4th trip, 3803 passes the box as I lean from the Fireman's side. The smokeless chimney indicates that the fire is now thin as we are preparing for a 20-minute 'hardly moving' stop (C = D.Hanks)... 
We did however have a problem after the 4th trip; we ran out of coal! After all, we had done 5.5 trips already (in total, including Foot-Ex!). So, the JCB was called up and we coaled 3803 'over the fence' as the public gazed in amazement. With the tender replenished we briskly ran round and left asap with the final run. Unfortunately we were 20 minutes down as the JCB had had trouble starting. "Oh well, we'll just try our best". For the last run, Mic fired down to Shenton, and I fired back. 3803 behaved beautifully once again and it was a pleasure to be on her footplate all day long. I think this is the closest I've ever came to admitting a 'love' for a locomotive; she's a beauty. Following a successful last trip, we raked 3803's fire and got her back up into the shed before disposing. What a fabulous day; I will never forget it. And, in a greedy manner, I look forward to my next turn on 3803. I would like to thank Mic, Mark and Andy for a great day out, as well as Dave for sending in some of those great pictures you see above. Also, thanks to SDR for the loan of the wonderful 38xx; she's lovely. Well, I didn't get away from Shack until 6:30pm so, with that folks, I think I need a shower and a bed! Thanks for reading folks; I hope you enjoyed this one. Comments always welcome (click below). Goodnight All. Sam...
Hi all. Today, in order to escape the family for a short while as they enjoyed in the fabulous Royal Wedding, the 5" gauge railway at Coventry Model Engineering Society was pressed into service to provide some welcome entertainment. The 'RPMR', as it is known, was open to members today so that engines could be given a run; wether they were club-owned or privately so. I must admit, the turnout was better than any I have seen in some years. I counted at least 12 locomotives touching down on the track, from the smallest of 3.5" tank engines to the biggest of 5" gauge electrics and tendered steamers. The action at the steaming bays was non-stop, right from the 10am start time, and it continued after we left! Below, 4 engines wait on the steaming bay, with a marshalled train waiting on the run-up-rail nearby...
Amongst many other engines, we had two 3.5" loco's present; a Class 1F 'Molly' and a 'Princess Marina'; owned by Eddie Jones; which is a Stanier Mogul 2-6-0. From the 5" range we had a; 'Butch', 'Pansy', two LNWR Precursors (see later), a Bagnall, Class 37, a Dock Shunter, a 'Sarah Siddons', an RC 0-4-0 electric and a RoR 'Hercules'. The stalwart 'Butch', owned by Mr Farr, which always runs like a well-oiled sewing machine, can be seen getting up a head of steam below... 
'Pansy' (Pannier Tank) "Victoria", wearing her lovely GWR Green livery, experienced a few problems early on but seemed to be running fine after some minor attention. 5717 on the bay... 
Now, some say; tongue in cheek; that there is "Only one Great Western, and thats the North Western". Well, I can truly say hand on heart that I do like the Great Western engines; I really do. But, the fact remains, that pre-grouping designs, like those of LNWR, were arguably way ahead of their time. LNWR engines were indeed very big for their era, usually baring huge wheels with plenty of ability for speed. After all, fast journey times from London to the North were required and, in these days of still-rather primitive lubrication, the bigger the wheel meant the better the running; surely! The LNWR developed the 'Precursor' Class as a fast passenger 4-4-0, keeping a tender behind for better running on longer journeys which required more capacity. However, the design was so successful that the LMS, after the amalgimation, built a Tank Engine version. Today, the 'newest' engine in CMES was enjoying her first ever steam outing...
This beautiful LNWR Precursor Tank, built by Mr M Sweatman, was a pleasure to see and ran beautifully. Check out that cab detail...
With the Tank in the background, the RC 0-4-0 (+ owner) is readied for running...
The 'mad' brother even managed to bag a drive; on the club's 37 electric...
Of course, I had a drive on the 37 too but, though it echoes usefulness, it isn't anywhere near as interesting as the steamer. Luckily, Colin offered me a drive on his fabulous engine, which is incidently the tendered version of the Precursor. I've driven this engine many times before and its always a joy. You never have trouble with steam, or with water, and the bark is fantastic. Never a problem on LNWR?! I must admit, I do really like this one...
Just two quick clips below of me driving the tendered Precursor...
All in all, a fantastic steam up at CMES and well done to the guy above (Mr Wilson) for organising it; a great morning. Now its time for home; we have a party to be at by 13:00! (And to see the newly weds on the balcony of Buckingham Palace at 13:30 of course!). Thank you for reading everyone. Whats coming up tomorrow; a 5am start at Shackerstone on GWR No3803...(yawns begin). Good Day all...
