Statfold Barn Miniature Steam Rally: The Final Day...

"Burrell and Fowler" (Traction Time)

Hi all. Well, at 8am this morning the fourth and final day began for me at the 2016 Statfold Barn Miniature Steam Rally. Today would see engine numbers in the mid-60s (you always get Saturday day visitors) with a further additional engine joining us too. We were just as busy, running around everywhere delivering bits, giving things out, answering questions, lining things up etc. We had just over 40 engines in this afternoon's damp line-up but, joined by the big engines too, it still looked and sounded fantastic. It was a very enjoyable and busy day. Today we performed the Heavy Haulage again, this time using the 3-ton Simplicity roller as the load which actually prompted some of the other engines to get involved (maybe "Pedler" was too heavy!). Meanwhile there were countless model steamers to see, steam train rides, photo op's, footplate rides and much more. By the time closing time came around we were preparing to get everything off-site as efficiently but as calmly as possible. I was in the Defender in case anything got stuck, with all the necessary tow equipment in the back. However, much to our surprise, everything got out easily and under its own power and the site was pretty much empty by the time 6pm rolled around. It had been a great triumph for our team and SBR as a whole. The first family event has now been completed and I think this proves that it can be done at this fantastic railway. My many thanks to all our helpers, exhibitors and visitors for making this event such a worthwhile enjoyable success. I cannot put into words how tired I am at this moment but it has all been worth it and it makes one wonder..."where did those 4 days go?!". Cheers all, Sam...