Chasewater Railway Museum Bits & Pieces 62
From RPS Newsletters Nos.3 & 4, July – October 1973
One short newsletter and one a bit longer so I thought I’d put them in the same post.
From No.3
Due to the grand summer weather our train running operations have proved very successful, this of course has also been enhanced by having the DMU trailer unit now in regular service, our train crews have carried out the job of keeping the wheels rolling most efficiently. Members wishing to participate in train duties should report to Steve Allsopp for instruction.
Neilson 0-4-0 Locomotive
This locomotive has now passed its boiler test successfully and is now in the process of being re-assembled. I understand that the main bearings are being re-metalled. The whole project is in the capable hands of our General Manager, Derek Luker, with Keith Sergeant acting as chief assistant. We are heavily indebted to these two members for sticking to the job.
MSLR Carriage
MSL at Easingwold – R.Cromblehome
Restoration of this vehicle still continues, also a long slog by John Elsley. John would appreciate a little more help with this vehicle. Anyone who is reasonably skilled in woodwork should report to John Elsley.
The platform building had been slowed down due to the train operations, and the Railway held a very successful Railway Exhibition at the Forum Theatre in Cannock. Very many thanks to all the people who set up the stands, acted as stewards, and in particular, to Rob Duffill and his team of ladies who manned the refreshment bar.
From No.4
The running season had been a good one, helped by an excellent summer. Restoration work and maintenance will now continue throughout the coming autumn and winter months, weather permitting. Priorities, I understand, will include trackwork, embankment restoration and completion of the platform.
Restoration work on the Neilson continues – should be in steam next year.
Hawthorn Leslie 0-4-0ST Asbestos
This loco has finished for the season, and now enjoys a well-earned rest. Boiler fittings have now been removed and the boiler washed out. The fitting flanges are to be reseated prior to the forthcoming boiler tests. This work again is in the hands of Derek Luker, our hard-working General Manager.
MS & LR Carriage
Excellent progress is still being maintained by John Elsley, Nigel Hadlow and Albert Haywood, cracked panes have been replaced with new ¼” plate glass (at a prohibitive price), painting still continues, the teak centres can actually now be seen on the Mansell wheels. John tells me he hopes to restore the compartments to the original as far as possible. This vehicle is proving well worthy of preservation and is a credit to John and his team.
Maryport & Carlisle Railway carriage
Work has now started on the panelling of this vehicle, under the capable hands of Andrew Louch. It is indeed gratifying to us all that our historic ‘Maryport’ is at last receiving restoration attention. After being in service for a full season last year, the vehicle is undergoing a refit and later a repaint. More about this at a later date.
Worthington Diesel No.20
This vehicle has now received attention from Brian Piddock and is again in working order, after lying idle for many months, it is a very good job done and I’m sure we are all grateful to Brian.
Chasewater Terminus Platform
Work still continues on this very vital asset. Lawrence Hodgkinson is in charge of this project, the Council have helped with a good graded red ash approach to the platform, and provided car parking facilities. I’m sure the Society is most grateful for this help.
Derailment of No.21 Diesel
A derailment occurred this month (Sept) during the hours of darkness, the above diesel came off the road when towing the DMU into the compound around 8.00pm. Two slabs were loosened on the platform and the driver, Lawrence Hodgkinson, somewhat shaken. A team of stalwarts (6) worked until 11.30pm by the light of Tilley Lamps to re-rail the locomotive, this was finally achieved and both loco and carriage shunted safely into the compound.
A.G.M.
The AGM was well attended this year, it was followed by the Chasewater Light Railway Co. Ltd. AGM. A special train took members a trip down the entire length of the line, this consisted of the L & Y No.1 Petrol Loco and the GWR 16 ton brake. Slides were later shown in the DMU carriage, this depicted work done over the season on and around the site.
Compiled by Dave Ives and Printed and published by Lawrence Hodgkinson.
Chasewater Railway Museum 