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Webmaster (with effect from 2nd July 2009: Tim Beere, Marketing Manager, Mid Hants Railway Ltd)
From: Ted Stephens
Sent: 02 July 2009 09:25
Subject: Many Thanks
Hi Tony
Many thanks for showing us round the loco sheds last night.
Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the visit, especially John Updfold, and I
think were surprised at the amount of heavy engineering work that is
undertaken by the railway and the volunteers.
One thing that did surprise was that some of the group had not in fact
visited the railway before even though most of us live locally.
Hopefully this visit has encouraged them to come and take a ride or try
a day out driving.
Many thanks
Regards
Ted Stephens
Rail and Transit Solutions Executive
You were most welcome, Ted.
What a very pleasant bunch of blokes you all are! ... tw
[This e-mail relates to an evening tour
of the loco shed by about 20 'ex-Tablers' from the Petersfield branch
of the charitable organisation: 'Round Table']
From: Andrew Jones
Sent: 01 July 2009 22:22
Subject: 9F working party Sat 4th July
Hi Tony
I am currently working on the 9F to try and get it back into traffic
with the aim of having it running for the Steam Gala. To do this,
we need some volunteers! I was hoping you might be able to put
this on the main loco website - Bob Allen has said this would be a good
idea to reach a wide audience.
I realise that it is short notice, but I am attempting to organise a working party for Saturday, 4th July
for any existing volunteers to come and help out. Cleaning parts,
painting, and re-assembling the loco are all on offer to those willing
to assist.
We are currently putting the cladding back on, and once this is done it
will be a matter of re-assembling the jigsaw of parts.
I am at Ropley working on the loco from Monday to Friday if anyone has
any questions, or would like to lend a hand mid-week.
Kind regards
Andrew Jones
Ropley MPD Volunteer & Steam Driver
From: David Couchman
Sent: 30 June 2009 17:05
Subject: Photographs at Ropley
Hello Tony
Keep up the good work with your excellent web-site.
I had the opportunity to call into Ropley station yesterday and someone
(it may well have been you) was
kind enough to let me view the locos in
the yard. I attach a couple of photos of #5224 and one of the line
of stored locos (taken from the road bridge). Please feel free to use them if you feel it would be appropriate.
Best wishes
David Couchman
From: Mike Slassor
Sent: 30 June 2009 13:30
Subject: Thank you for the MHR website
Dear Tony
I must write to thank you for maintaining such an interesting,
informative, educational and topical website. It’s great to see
such good quality photos of the work and the people involved. Lots of
other railways and societies could learn from it.
Although I grew up in, and live in, N.E. England, I have this ‘strange’ affection for Bulleid
Pacifics, which led to me joining ‘The Port Line Project’
(now ‘Southern Locomotives Ltd.’) I believe the
affection stems from my first train set which comprised a
circle of O-gauge(?) track, a couple of tinplate(?) Pullman coaches and
an 0-4-0 (?) spamcan powered by two U2 batteries. I have tried to
Google for details of such a trainset without success.
I also helped at Loughborough with the latter stages of #92212’s overhaul so it will be great to see her back in traffic.
Anyway, keep up the good work and very best wishes for the future.
Regards
Mike Slassor
From: John Stocker
Sent: 30 June 2009 09:02
Subject: Congratulations
Dear Tony
I must congratulate you and your contributors on the wonderfully
informative and excellent pictorial updates on your site.
This must rate as one of the best railway websites in the World and
keeps me updated on the railway I love to visit whenever I am in the
UK.
Keep up the good work, I love reading the updates.
Best wishes to all at the Mid Hants
John Stocker
Saintes, France
Wow! Thank you both for your most encouraging words - I'm all aglow now. ☺ ... tw
From: Henry ODwyer
Sent: Monday, June 29, 2009 8:30 AM
Subject: July 2009 Calendar
Hi Tony
Here is July
H *
From: John Sims
Sent: 29 June 2009 14:45
Subject: A Great Day Out ......
Tony
I spent a glorious day yesterday enjoying a footplate ride on
‘Bittern’, as part of a birthday present from a group of
friends.
Finding a date when all these friends could join me on the occasion
took some doing, but the weather really played its part and I could not
have picked a better day.
It was truly memorable day, and special thanks must go to the footplate
crew (Barry and Greg) who hosted me very well, explaining things and
the route as we progressed.
My wife tells me I have still not lost the silly grin!!!
I would also add my sincere thanks to all those volunteers who were
working through yesterday at the various tasks and locations along the
route.
Their efforts contribute greatly to the overall enjoyment and are much appreciated.
A visit to the line is never a dis-appointment and I wish you continued success with all your efforts.
Thanks once again.
P.S. – Just seen the latest news on your website, and realised
that the loud noise we heard on our afternoon journey must have been
the Vulcan passing over Medstead.
Missed that, but
fear the scenic and emotional overload of the two together may have
been too much !!!!
Regards
John Sims
Don't worry, John - on past reports the silly grin only lasts about a week ... tw
From: Edward J Dyer
Sent: 28 June 2009 21:07
Subject: Bittern in the mist
Evening Tony
I paid an unexpected summer visit to the Watercress Line yesterday,
hoping to see the GWR tank #5224 in operation.
Unfortunately, it was not working but that's how it goes. Then again,
there can't be many railways who offer an 'A4' and a 'Bullied' on the
normal day service!!!
Please find attached an image of #60019 Bittern,
seen in the mist approaching Medstead.
I also had a great shock in the afternoon, when the restored Vulcan
bomber flew over near Medstead.
Thanks again for a great website.
Regards
Edward J Dyer
From: Mark Drinkwater
Sent: 25 June 2009 19:57
Subject: Eastleigh 100
Hello Tony
Phil Marsh of The Railway Magazine
recently (23.05.09) took some pictures of the MHR group at 'Eastleigh
100' (23.05.09 - 25.05.09). Chris Smith was also part of the group but
sadly he was not around at the time of the photos. Also, he has told us
that one of the photos he took will be in the 1st July 2009
issue
of The Railway Magazine.
We are all Ropley Loco Department volunteers.
In this photo
: Simon
Parker (top left), Nick Clark (top right), Andy Christie (bottom left),
Alistair Christie (bottom centre left), Ollie Collins (bottom centre
right), Mark Drinkwater (bottom right).
In this photo :
Simon
Parker (top left), Alistair Christie (centre left), Mark Drinkwater
(centre right), Andy Christie (top right), Ollie Collins (left,
buffer), Nick Clark (right, buffer).
Both
photos (23rd May 2009):
© Phil Marsh
We would all like to give special thanks to Chris Smith for inviting us
to the event, to Phil Marsh for taking the photos and to the
event
organisers for putting on a brilliant event.
Thanks
Mark
From: Bob Ellison
Sent: 24 June 2009 18:23
Subject: #5224 at Medstead
Dear Tony
#5224 made a fine sight today in the
sunshine.
I am attaching of photograph of #5224 arriving at Medstead &
Four Marks with the 1100 service
from Alresford to Alton.
Regards
Bob Ellison
22nd June 2009:
Our
website has been harvested for e-mail addresses and the following are
being used by a mass-mailing program:
santa@watercressline.co.uk
birthday@watercressline.co.uk
reservations@watercressline.co.uk
tonywood@watercressline.co.uk
webmaster@watercressline.co.uk
jimrussell@watercressline.co.uk
kyoichioda@watercressline.co.uk
newvolunteer@watercressline.co.uk
marketing@watercressline.co.uk
No mail FROM these e-mail addresses is
from Mid Hants Railway and any received should be DELETED WITHOUT CLICKING ON ANY LINK
... tw
From: Matt Allen
Sent: 21 June 2009 15:58
Subject: MHR today, something a bit different!
Hi Tony
Photography is a struggle this time of year with the heat, everything
being so green
and the harsh light,
so I added some extra interest of my own.
I have to admit despite appearances the bike isn’t a
1966 Triumph
Bonneville but a 2005
reproduction.
However, I think the MHR provides a
stunning backdrop, the bike being at home surrounded by great
British
engineering.
Regards
Matt
From: Tony Dowland
Sent: 20 June 2009 21:14
Subject: Yesterday at Ropley
Dear Mr Wood
You might be interested in the attached pictures taken yesterday at
Ropley where almost the whole fleet was lined up on the platform road.
Out of shot was diesel 08 032 leading the cavalcade.
It was a most interesting but I guess not a unique sight.
Regards
Tony Dowland
(Life Member)
From: Chris Smith
Sent: 19 June 2009 19:17
Subject: First in railway
preservation?
Tony
Getting FIVE Bullieds
together is likely to be a first in railway preservation !
The Eastleigh 100 event
did four, and three were assembled when Taw Valley
came to visit a few years ago.
Could be something to shout from the rooftops?
I think displaying the out of ticket locos is a great idea.
Regards
Chris
From: David Charlesworth
Sent: 19 June 2009 10:47
Subject:
MHRPS (Woking
& Guildford Group) News
Woking
& Guildford Group
held their annual evening outing on Wednesday in rather dim and damp
conditions. Fortunately it was fine enough for everyone to disembark at
Ropley to watch a run-past
at speed.
At the end of the day Wadebridge
waits to shunt the train away before heading for Strong
Country in the dusk light.
Thanks to all the volunteers who made the run possible.
Regards
David Charlesworth
From: Geoffrey Scanlan
Sent: 18 June 2009 13:24
Subject:
War
on the Line weekend
Just
a quick note to say how impressed I was with the level of detail and
overall effect achieved on the railway. I especially liked the little
side items – the group of evacuees and the spiv being
arrested, as well
as the I/D card I received at the ticket office!
A memorable day out – thank you.
Geoff Scanlan
Epping
From: Wilkin John (PCO)
Sent: 15 June 2009 13:01
Subject:
War on
the Line - Sunday
Dear Mr. Wood
My family attended the War on the Line day yesterday and I
thought that I should write to let you know what a great time we had.
We had never before visited your railway although we knew of
it and had seen the smoke from the A31 on occasion over the
years. My
Daughter picked up a leaflet at the Guildford
show…………….her
boyfriend was
attracted to the RAT train, no
doubt……….and she told her old Mum and
Dad about
it.
We were most impressed with everything about the railway and
the activities. Of course, the younger ones like it for its
novelty value
but we are of an age where Spitfires, steam and pristine country
stations on
hot days actually mean something from our past. (Standing on
Ropley
yesterday I was transported to Deepdene Station almost 50 years ago,
waiting
for a steam train on a day so warm that the tar on the platform was
melting underfoot!).
Land Army girls and corned beef hash and having your I/D card checked
on the
train (I never had one but my Wife still has
hers!)……….well, just great.
Coupled with the brilliant weather, the day could not have
been bettered.
What you and the other enthusiasts do is quite
amazing. It makes me glad that people like you have the drive
and
interest to do it, at the same time making me feel just a little
ashamed that I
do not make the time for such important things. And they are
important,
you know.
Your activities with the trains and those of the many people
who chose to dress up in period style, those who were there to show off
their
skills, hobbies and interests, bring out the best in most of us and
cause us to
reflect on what we think were better and more gentle
times. Rose coloured
spectacles, maybe, but nostalgia is no bad thing and I thank you and
all the
other participants for doing what you do and for providing such events
for the
pleasure of the rest of us.
How strange it was that the first stall I looked at in the
car park was run by a chap who lives about a mile away from me in Kent,
but who
I have never met before. Also that one of the fire engines on
display is
operated by a chap from my childhood who I have not set eyes on for
decades!
I am sure that we will be back next year and I have no doubt
that we'll be along to visit other events in the meantime.
Thank you for what you do. It is important and you
should know just how much we visitors appreciate your efforts.
Sincerely
John Wilkin
From: Tony Kerwood
Sent: 14 June 2009 11:01
Subject: War on the Line - Day One
Hi Tony
I
attached photo taken during the fly past at Ropley on Saturday. Ropley
was buzzing with chatter and laughter until the sound of the plane's
engines could be heard.
Then silence fell on the station during the
display. No children playing, no dogs barking, just silence and the
engine noise.
Uncanny!
Tony
From:
Colin Fuller
Sent: 13 June 2009 18:56
Subject: War on the
Line - Day One
Dear Tony
Just a quick e-mail to tell you that the War on the
Line
weekend got off to an excellent start. Something like 200
re-enactors, many WWII (and earlier) vehicles, soldiers, sailors and
airmen aplenty, many with their ladies. On the civilian side,
dancers and singers entertained at the stations and on the
trains. Evacuee children and P.O.W.s moved along the Line and
the
P.O.W.s were also transported by road. The catering outlets,
including the Field Kitchen at Ropley, were busier than
expected.
Arguably the Home Front Display at Medstead & Four
Marks
Station generated the most interest from the visitors. The
aerobatics of the Spitfire and Hurricane just added the final
touches. AND there is more tomorrow!
My first picture shows two Veterans sharing their wartime experiences
with members of the Women's Land Army and the second shows Capt.
Allaway of the 101st Airborne inspecting a parade from The
Queens.
Colin Fuller
MHRPS Life Member No:1
From: Eric Pugh
Sent: 13 Jun 2009 15:19
Subject: Watching MHR videos
Hello Mr Wood
I know that you are extremely busy with all your MHR activities but I
am just wondering if any other visitor to your website has reported
experiencing a similar problem to myself.
I have happily been viewing the video clips on your website for the
past few years but for the past two weeks for no apparent reason I
cannot now view any video on your site, not even those that I have
previously watched. I have tried to ensure that my version of
"Realplayer" and "Quicktimeplayer" are up to date but alas all that I
get on my screen is a white page.
Other than that I think that your website and the informative content
it provides is excellent.
Best wishes and kind regards
Eric Pugh
Hello
Eric
Sorry you’re having bother.
Just
to reassure you, nothing has been changed on the website regarding
web-movies and I have just tested downloading and running several from
the web and they all work just fine for me on VLC Media Player, a
freeware program; it's excellent and I use it all the time. Since publishing this in response to others’
difficulties I had heard of no problems until your e-mail
today.
I
run Windows XP on my computer. The most hassle I had was with Media
Player: every time MS brought out a new version it fouled something up!
I don’t know about your system, but I got fed up years ago
with various
incompatibilities between formats on Real Player, Quicktime, Media
Player, etc., and tried various other options before finding VLC.
So
my best suggestion is that you download VLC Media Player. If
you make it your default player for
everything it can do and follow all recommendations during setup, I
think you will find everything works
again.
Let me know how you get on ...
tw, 13 June 2009 19:27
From:
Richard Courage
Sent: 12 June 2009 00:16
Subject: oil cans
Hi Tony
In your loco shed feature back in March
2009 you showed a couple of
small oil cans that someone had made from tin cans --- have you ever
discovered who made them ? & if they would be put
into
production !
They would seem ideal for adding valve oil to our compressor &
lubricators on Royal
Hudson # 2860 & I am seeking to find such.
Any information appreciated ---
Thanks
Richard Courage
#2860 Royal Hudson Support Group and Mid Hants
member
No I haven’t Richard, but I’m
making
enquiries on your behalf and will let you know ... tw
From:
Robert Prior
Sent: 12
June 2009 20:17
Subject:
Oil Cans
Hi Tony
Who on
earth would have thought that some old tin cans could create so much correspondence ?
I will own up, it was me.
It started off as an exercise to get the Rangers
interested in doing some simple metalwork in the shed, on days when it
was too wet to do much else.
Maybe this winter we may get some others interested in having a go ?
Regards
Bob Prior
I
have put Bob in touch with Richard ... tw
From: David Charlesworth
Sent: 07 June 2009 22:07
Subject: Vintage Buses
Ex Southampton AEC Regent 5 No.350 was in action again today sharing
duties with ex King Alfred AEC Renown 596LCG, seen together at Alton.
The difference between the Regent and the Renown is that the latter has
a lower chassis permitting the low height body. It might be possible to
see that although the two buses are similar in appearance the King
Alfred bus is squatter and has a forward door and stairs. James Freeman
who will be remembered by many on the Railway was driving - he is seen
in this picture
on the right with back to camera. A
good crowd went to Jane Austen's house in Chawton. Later,
Southampton No.350 arrives at Chawton and is seen from the garden.
Meanwhile back at the railway, Bittern was running round at Alton.
David Charlesworth
From: Christopher Castleman
Sent: 06 June 2009 10:13
Subject: 9F tubeplate, orchids and tranquillity
9F tubeplate (Andy Netherwood's
contribution)
If an engineering item can be a thing of beauty then Andy's picture of
the finished tubeplate must rank as showing one of them. Every tube end
the same, nothing but a perfect job. He and his team come in for some
stick from us all sometimes but they should all be congratulated on
achieving such a good result.
Orchids (Colin Chambers' contribution)
We used to have some of these near us on the road-side. The "neat
&
tidy" people cut them a year or two back too early, (i.e. before the
plants set seed) and we have not seen these upright plants again. Can
you make sure that our team of vegetation cutters do not make the same
mistake?
Tranquillity
I took the attached yesterday during a quiet period between trains and
shifting redundant steel. If locos could talk, what would they be
saying......?
Or alternatively, how about this for a
back-garden?
Take care, see you soon.
Chris D Castleman.
From: Colin Chambers
Sent: 05 June 2009 09:33
Subject: Orchids, lineside
Tony
Couple of photos I took yesterday evening of orchids growing lineside.
Good show this year, I counted at least 100 then got bored with
counting.
Rather annoyingly some had been trampled down by linesiders over the
weekend !
Regards
Colin Chambers
Managing Director
MHR Ltd
Look like Early
Purple Orchids to me (Orchis
mascula) ... tw
From:
Maurice Pugh
Sent: 05 June 2009 20:43
Hi Tony
They look more like Common Spotted Orchids. (A close-up or sharp
picture would help)
The flowering season for Early Purple Orchids is over I'm
afraid.
Cheers
Maurice
From: Victor Chandler
Subject: A4 chime whistle
I would love to have the A4 chime whistle on my mobile phone. Do you
know where I can get a download to put it on my phone?
Thank you
Victor Chandler
Your
wish is our
command, Victor .... tw
From: George A'Court
Sent: 01 June 2009 13:55
Subject: DIESEL
GALA return of the THUMPER
Tony
Having spent the last 4 years restoring the unit it was with a
great deal of pride to see 1125 back in service for the gala (giving 3
days faultless performance.) Naturally I am a little biased to the old
girl although you would never notice. I hope this is not a one off and
Thumper will in future make periodic appearances on the MHR. For one
round trip I sat with the passengers and there was a genuine interest
in the unit ranging from the early days when it ran over
Southern
lines including our own, transfer to “Connex” and
finally
coming home.
I would like also to thank the support given over the last 6 months by
Wayne and Martin of Ropley Station Staff together with James
of
Alresford Station Staff.
Although operational restoration will continue and we still have at
least 12 months' more work to do so any additional volunteers would be most welcome.
G A’Court
From: Matt Hurst
Sent: 31 May 2009 21:12
Subject: Diesel Gala Photos
Tony
A
quick note to say well done with another great event. I
attended on
Friday with my son of 20 months (well you've got to get them interested
early although with him it's not too hard) and we had a great
day. My
only criticism was the lack of pre-notification of the loco
diagramming. The full timetable with diagrams at the Swanage
gala
earlier this month was published a few days prior to the event allowing
visitors to plan their day. It would have been much
appreciated not
just by me but others I met who attended on Friday so if this could be
taken into consideration for future events it would make a great day
even better. Apart from this and the late running we
thoroughly enjoyed
ourselves.
I see that the line had problems with trespassing
again and I do hope that these unwelcome visitors do not prevent a
repeat gala next year.
Latest photos - http://www.flickr.com/photos/salisburyasc
Mid Hants Photos - http://www.flickr.com/photos/salisburyasc/sets/72157605558035170/
Once again, well done and thanks.
Regards
Matt
From: James Paice
Sent: 31 May 2009 19:22
Subject: Hampshire Unit (DEMU) #1125 Launch
Hi Tony
Attached are a few photos of 1125 (Hammy's) launch
into service on Friday.
Regards
James Paice*
Thumper Group
From: Jeremy de Souza
Sent: 31 May 2009 19:07
Subject: Diesel Gala
Good afternoon Tony
Just a quick note to thank everyone concerned with the outstanding
Diesel Gala this weekend.
Of course the brilliant weather helped, but please pass on heartfelt
thanks to everyone who made it happen.
I hope it was a success commercially and will be repeated next year.
I enclose a shot of 33 053 taken today (Sunday)
Regards
Jeremy de Souza
From: Sue Clements
Sent: 31 May 2009 14:22
Subject: Diesel Gala trespassers
Hi Tony
We would like help with identifying the man in the red T-shirt,
observed in the 6ft on Friday, with a view to possible prosecution for
criminal trespass.
Thanks
Sue Clements
More trespassers that we would like to identify.
Colin Chambers
Managing Director
From: Henry O'Dwyer
Sent: 31 May 2009 09:44
Subject: June 2009
Calendar: Flaming June
Hi Tony
... and here's #06
Rgds
H.
From:
David Charlesworth
Sent: 24 May 2009 22:19
Subject: Sunday 24th May
Tony
#5224 was in action again today at Alresford with the 11.43 departure and
at M4M later in the afternoon.
Wadebridge seemed to be running a bit late -
probably confused
by the Western visitor into thinking we were running to Swindon time.
(Swindon Local Mean Time is some 7 minutes behind GMT.)
For those who become queasy at the sight of Gas Works products here is Brian the Snail
in the M4M garden. He is of course bound by the MHR safety case and is
limited to 25mph.
The red hot pokers
(Kniphofia) were glowing at Ropley in front of the
newly installed round-top fencing.
Regards
David Charlesworth
From: Connor Muir
Sent: 23 May 2009 20:31
Subject: #5224
Hi Tony
I have attached some pictures of Ex-GWR tank #5224 from today (Saturday
23rd May)
Connor Muir
(Ranger)
From: Simon Parker
Sent: 22 May 2009 23:30
Subject: Eastleigh 100
Hi Tony
Nick and I have been at Eastleigh all day cleaning CP !
I have taken some pictures and she looks great.
Cheers
Simon Parker
See also
From: Christopher Searle
Sent: 21 May 2009 19:36
Subject: A busy day for the MHR
Hello Tony
Here is a selection of pictures from a very active railway today with #34007 on footplate experience
duties, #60019 on
the service trains
alongside the Bubblecar and #850, #35005 and #41312 en
route to the Eastleigh 100
celebrations behind a Class 33. I managed to see them at several places
due to the leisurely nature of the run behind a West Coast Class 37 on the Main
Line. On the MHR they were towed
by the 33 with #850 giving considerable assistance on the
climb to Medstead.
They are captured beginning their Main Line journey at Bentley and then at Witley station
near Haslemere.
It was great to see them back on "The Big Railway"
again and I am looking forward to attending the Eastleigh event on
Saturday.
Kind regards
Chris Searle*
From: David Allsop
Sent: 21 May 2009 07:44
Subject: Mid Hants Motive Power
Hi Tony
I have just bought a new lens for my camera and was keen to test it out
so I went to Ropley North Street for an hour as I could see from your
Loco Roster on the web-site that #60019
Bittern was in steam.
I enclose two photos taken yesterday morning indicating the two
extremes in motive power, is this some
new secret loco you are going to use?
Regards
David Allsop*
From: Jim Russell
Sent: 16 May 2009 09:59
Subject: Hampshire Unit
Hi Tony
Last
Wednesday the Hampshire Unit successfully passed it’s last
hurdle to
regain its passenger carrying certificate: it passed an
‘A’ Exam –
which focuses on door locks and door safety – and has now
been assessed
as Fit to Run for the Diesel
Gala.
Barring
a failure it will be appearing at the Gala – residual tasks
being
mainly to undertake a heavy clean and apply the transfers.
Following
the Gala there is still more work to undertake than one can shake a
stick at – but we have a great team on the job so it will all
get done
in time.
Regards
Jimbo
From: David Rutenberg
Sent: 14 May 2009 21:02
Subject: Bicycle?
In June, am I permitted to bring (check) my bicycle on a Watercress
train?
David Rutenberg
Kingston, Canada
Yes,
of course David. Just
speak with the guard and he’ll show you where
... tw, 14 May 2009 21:28
From: Richard Keeling
Sent: 13 May 2009 21:10
Subject: Thanks
Dear Tony
I've just got home (near Cambridge) after my first visit to the Mid
Hants Railway. My birthday was in February and I was bought a
voucher for a Steam Locomotive Footplate
Ride Experience. I booked it for today (May 13th)
at 1pm and wanted to let you know that I thoroughly enjoyed the
experience.
It was a great thrill to ride on Lord Nelson, which I am sure I
'spotted' when I was a kid visiting the Southern Region many years ago.
Particular thanks to driver John and to firemen Martin and Greg who
made me most welcome and imparted lots of fascinating information.
Martin must have lost a stone in weight with all the frantic coal
shovelling that was necessary to make sure we had plenty of power for
those steep gradients. Before the trip I hadn't realised just how much
hard work it takes to get the engine ready for the day and to make sure
it runs well enough to keep the train on time. I thought it was a great
team effort, particularly with the distraction of a 'guest' in the cab.
It was a great day out and please pass on my thanks.
I am looking forward to another visit before long.
Yours
Richard Keeling
From: Mark Pedley
Sent: 08 May 2009 23:46
Subject: Urie S15 photos
Hi Tony
A few pics
from the Urie S15 Group showing progress to date
Keep up the good work with the website - it makes for compulsory
reading!
Regards
Mark
From: Tracy
Cornish
Sent: 08 May 2009 20:46
Hello Tony from Denmark
Just to let you know Thomas is having great fun
here and has made new friends with many children and adults.
I will forward some photos later*
Tracy and Rodders
*And here they are: One Two Three
Photos
(May 2009): Tracy Cornish
From:
David Charlesworth
Sent: 03 May 2009 20:55
Subject: Vintage Bus Service
The Vintage Bus Service
got under way today
but for economic reasons with only one bus this season. A good turnout
rode on ex-Southampton Corporation No.350. This is an AEC Regent V
based at Medstead Depot and running for the first time on these
services, although sister No.361 has been seen a number of times.
I like the sign inside.
No.850 Lord Nelson suffered hiccups with an injector this morning but
was back in traffic this afternoon, here
seen from Windmill Lane bridge carrying a Bournemouth
headcode.
Regards
David Charlesworth 
From: Adam Stratton
Sent: 01 May 2009 17:59
Hi
Here’s a photo of the Class 121 Bubble Car at Alresford just
before departure.
Adam Stratton
From: Marijke Miles
Sent: 27 April 2009 19:25
Subject: Thank you sooo much!
Dear Karen*
I recently enquired about arrangements for my father's 80th birthday
celebration which was on Sunday 26th April.
I just wanted to thank you and all the team at Mid Hants Railway for an
absolutely WONDERFUL memorable occasion.
Dad had a huge surprise when we all leapt out on him in the station car
park (having been taken on a mystery tour from home!) and my 14 month
old twin boys had their first ever (of many I hope) steam train ride.
The guard was even kind enough to make a birthday announcement on the
train which delighted him beyond words.
Having been a family who have regularly enjoyed and supported the line
for over 20 years due to a shared passion for steam I still marvel
every time at the incredible commitment and passion and generosity of
time of everyone involved with the project. It is truly an inspiration
and I hope that in due course my boys find MHR a joyful feature of
their childhood memories as much as I do.
Thanks once again for all your time and enthusiasm.
Best wishes
Marijke Miles
* Karen
Butler is MHR Reservations Manager ... tw
From: Rod Wicks
Sent: 26 April 2009 21:28
Subject: St. George's Weekend - 26th April 2009
Hi Tony
As a proud owner of a red 1966 MGB Roadster (OPA 900D) I accompanied my
local Solent MG
Owners Club
on a trip to Ropley today to celebrate the "best of English" in support
of the St.George's weekend celebrations. We had a magnificent turn out
of 20 MG's, all built in England.
We were also joined on the packed picnic site at Ropley by the West Sussex Mini Owners Club
and the British
Made Car Club. The total turnout of cars was over 50.
More next year please!
Rod Wicks
From: Chris Searle
Sent: 26 April 2009 15:44
Subject: St Georges Day event
Hello Tony
Just writing to say how much I enjoyed my afternoon in Alresford
yesterday at the St George's Day event.
It was nice to see so many Austin
Healeys in one place with the
visit of the Owners Club and both #850
Lord Nelson and #34007 Wadebridge
suitably bedecked in appropriate headboards.
Also, entertainment was provided by the morris dancers led by a jester who took time to
admire the lines of #850.
Chris Searle
From: Renè Ehlers
Sent: 26 April 2009 01:03
Subject: A Day Out With Thomas in Denmark
Hi Tony
First of all I would like to express my appreciation of the website
regarding the line, I stop by everytime my oldest son asks me to :D
My wife, my three sons and my mother in law visited Tivoli in
Copenhagen today, all in all they had a great time, but for my oldest
son who is now 4, the best part was when they were coming home, and he
saw the poster regarding the event in Odense in May.
He couldn't stop talking about it and when they got home, he started
yelling for me from outside on the street; when I opened the window he
was all beaming and smiling and yelling excitedly, "THOMAS IS COMING
AGAIN! THOMAS IS COMING AGAIN!"
Last year I took him to Odense,
where we met up with my parents, and we had a most wonderful day, the
highlight of which was of course the real-life Thomas
engine, which my son, who is named Thomas b.t.w., has been a fan of
since he was about two.
So without further ado I have already gathered the family again and we
look forward to seeing Thomas again on May 7th,
hoping the event will have the best of weather and be everything it was
last year.
This year I will be bringing my two younger sons, twins of almost 2
years of age, and they already are enthralled when watching Thomas
on the TV, so I guess they will have as exciting a time as their big
brother.
I just wanted with this mail, to express my deepest gratitude for the
effort being put into letting our kids here in Denmark, get the chance
to say hello to Thomas like that. It is something
they talk
about endlessly afterwards, and even we adults, find great joy in
spending time at the event.
Kind regards
Renè Ehlers
Train Crew Dispatcher
DSB
From: John Wesley
Sent: 22 April 2009 18:41
Subject: MHR - Miniature
Railway Proposals
Dear Tony
Thank you, as always, for the most vibrant, informative and up-to-date
e-news of any of the Heritage railways, bar none!
Having followed your instructions to add my support for the development
proposals at Ropley, which I have duly done, I notice from close
inspection of the general Layout plan Sheet 2 there is no
access
from two of the platforms to the westbound (down?) running
line.
As a similar corresponding movement can be made at the station at the
western end of the line so that all platforms have direct access to the
‘Up’ found, has the draughtsman missed inserting a
trailing
crossover just west of the crossing to the lineside path?
Is there a proposed timescale for the development?
With apologies for such a pedantic attention to detail, when we have so
many more important problems (eg 73096’s cylinder
replacement) to
worry about. However, this is a project of a scale I could really
volunteer some help, even with my own fragile back problems (which
reminded me of them while I was helping to clean Swanage recently!)
Yours, Aye
John
Eur Ing
John R. Wesley
BSc CEng MICE MAPM AIRO FPWI RD
Thank
you for such kind comments about our website, John - I’ll
bask in their glow for quite a while!
☺
I
don’t know how to answer your question about the miniature
railway
project so will seek guidance from the MHR gurus involved. Either they
or I will write to you before long.
tw,
22 April 2009 18:58
From:
David Snow
Sent: 22 April 2009 19:55
There may well be some minor adjustments to be made between the current
planning application stage (at least in respect of the miniature
railway – which is a relatively small part of an overall
application) and the implementation stage. The timing of
construction may yet be a few years into the future.
Mr Wesley may be correct that a ‘vital’ connection
is
missing but no doubt this, and any other small but crucial amendments,
can be introduced later on without violating any planning permission
which we hope to obtain with the valued support of members,
shareholders and other supporters.
David
From: Kevin
MacDonald
Sent: 15 April 2009 18:25
Hi Tony,
Are the details of the local MHRPS groups anywhere on your website at
all?
Kevin Mac.
Link
is just under the main
index page photo. MHRPS logo and initials. Sorry if that wasn't obvious
... tw, 15 April 2009, 21:19
Sent: 22 April 2009 12:52
Thanks for the e-mail, and I note your points. It might be wise to
highlight this; as a member, I struggled to find it at all!
Kevin Mac
|
|
If you missed it
Kevin, others also will have done. Mea
culpa.
Pity, because David
Charlesworth maintains a really useful page of MHRPS local groups'
events over the coming
four weeks - it's linked from the MHRPS
page of this website.
I
urge readers of this Correspondence page who are not yet members of the
Mid-Hants Railway Preservation Society to join now to become truly a
participant in our railway. Our A4-size quarterly magazine MID-HANTS
News (free to
members) contains more background detail on MHR projects than is
normally available to the public, including illustrated reports from
those involved.
Back issues are available at the Information Office,
platform 1, Alresford station
...
tw, 22 April 2009, 15:30
|
 |
From: Anne and Malcolm
Pickett
Sent: 20 April 2009 10:44
Subject: The
Watercress Belle
A note of thanks to all at the Watercress Line for
working so hard to provide a wonderful evening on the Watercress
Belle
(18th April.) The lady who greeted us with roses was a very
nice
touch and set the mood for the evening. Special thanks to the
engine driver who stopped for a chat and the signalman at Alresford who
delighted us with an explanation of his duties in the signal
box. When booking we asked if it would be possible to provide
"a
fish dish" for one of our party - this was done willingly and the
resulting salmon was much enjoyed by my niece, so thank you for making
these special arrangements. The waiting staff worked so hard
and
made the evening. There must have been so many more people
behind
the scenes who we did not see, but thank you to them all.
The Watercress Line is a wonderful asset for
Hampshire - long may its success continue.
Sincerely
Anne Pickett
Thank
you Anne for taking the trouble writing such nice things. Much
appreciated! .... tw
From: David Charlesworth
Sent: 19 April 2009 20:12
Subject: Spring sunshine
Tony
The Trojan Owners' Club
visited Alresford today bringing some cars to bask in the April
sun.
Lord Nelson's crew exchanges
tokens at Medstead & Four Marks, the station looking
festive in the spring sunshine.
Regards
David Charlesworth
From: Nigel Rousell
Sent: 18 April 2009 09:41
Subject:
Photos
Tony
I was fortunate to have been allowed access to take some film
photographs for an A level photography course Whilst these await
development I have uploaded some B&W digitals that I took
around
the sheds at Ropley. Feel free to use any if you want. Some are of the
steam gala and some from
the
other evening
Nigel Rousell
Thank
you Nigel. You've captured a lot of the atmosphere ... tw
From: Annette Savill
Sent: 14 April 2009 16:59
Subject: Day Out With Thomas - thank you
A
huge THANK YOU to everyone at the Watercress Line who made our
Day
Out
With Thomas a truly memorable event. Our boys and we enjoyed
the many
activities and the cheerful atmosphere; the highlight must have been
watching Thomas and Percy going up and down the line at Ropley. The
love and dedication of your many volunteers made this day a hugely
enjoyable day out, we will definitely come back! Our own "Small
Controller" (Benedict) was overjoyed when he met the real Fat
Controller, we thought you might like to
share this moment.
With best wishes
Annette
From: Dave Suart
Sent: 12 April 2009 10:01
Subject:
Piston heads
Hi Tony
You will find
here
an interesting snippet in the March update from the SVR Pattern Shop
with regard to piston heads and their casting.
Regards
Dave
Thank
you Dave. #73096 has one of the highest mileages in preservation of all UK steam locos: well over 100,000 miles.
Of the four railways with Class 5 loco
failures involving pistons (Swanage, Bluebell, NYM, MHR), ours was
certainly the
most catastrophic! ... tw
From: Adele Glenn
Sent: 09 April 2009 23:00
Subject: Days Out With Thomas
I
wanted to say thank you all your "staff" for the wonderful
Days
Out
With Thomas. I brought Grandchildren on Tuesday and Thursday
this week
and we all had a really enjoyable time. Everyone was so helpful,
patient and friendly.
It was brilliantly organised and we all agreed that we're looking
forward to next time!
Most sincerely
Adele Glenn, William, Henry and Edward
From: Helen Lewis
Sent: 06 April 2009 12:46
Subject: A Big Thank You!
I just wanted to say a great big thank you for a really great
Day Out with Thomas
on Saturday. My 2 year old little girl absolutely loved
it. She just couldn't believe her eyes at first!!
I thought it was all very well organised, especially the baby changing
facilities, and all the volunteer staff were very cheerful, helpful and
chatty with all the children.
We will no doubt come again.
Helen, Paul and Abigail
Thank
you for taking the trouble to write in, Helen. We're
never quite sure whether it's our volunteers or our customers who enjoy
Thomas days the most but we knew you'd enjoy it ...
tw
From: Peter Haskew
Sent: 02 April 2009 23:30
Subject:
Loco Shed Latest News
Good evening Tony
I was just checking the latest news from the loco shed on the website
(23:25 on 02/04/2009), as I seem to do on a daily basis! I felt I
should point out that the driving axle has been put into the frames of
Black 5 #45379, not U-Class #31806. I hope so, anyway, as I was there
when we did it, and I'd hate to think we'd put the wrong one in!
You may be interested to know that the leading wheelset is now
completely made-up and ready to go in. We anticipate putting it in next
Thursday evening, as congestion of the pit-road during the Thomas event
will prevent us from doing it this Sunday.
Whilst I'm writing, I'd like to thank you for your work on the website,
and the loco shed section in particular, for two reasons. Firstly,
despite my being a regular volunteer in the shed, the latest news is
excellent for keeping abreast of day-to-day developments on projects
I'm not involved in, or on days when I'm not there. Secondly, reading
back through the extensive
archives
and
seeing all that has been done in the past ten years or so is exciting
and encouraging, as well as being most interesting and informative.
It's nice to see a website which keeps all the old content available
like this, rather than deleting anything more than a year old!
Keep up the good work!
Peter Haskew
I
decided on a late change to
the page, grouping stuff for #31806 together. Hurrying and tired I
popped #45379 stuff under the same heading. Sorry.
Your kind words were
most ameliorative. Thank you. ... tw
From: Dave Mundy
Sent: 30 March 2009 12:03
Subject: Bittern at the West
Somerset Railway Spring Gala
Hi Tony
Another photo of Bittern from the West Somerset
Railway
Spring Gala taken Sunday 29th.
I think I was one of those
lucky people at the end of the platform at Bishops Lydeard on that cold
but bright
morning mentioned in another letter
and was able to take this picture.
This photo was taken very early as Bittern, making
quite a
show, emerged from a thick cloud of steam.
Regards
Dave Mundy
P.S. looking forward to bringing the family to the Thomas
event over Easter. No one puts on a Thomas
show better than the
MHR !
From: Keith
Parker
Sent: 30 March 2009 10:02
My wife and I spent yesterday on the Watercress Line and we had a
lovely time.
My most moving moment was when I saw
Lord Nelson.
It took me
straight back to September 1943 when it pulled the train which took me
from my family in Southampton to be evacuated at Poole. I was only ten
and was crying then.
I came very close to tears yesterday.
Thank you all for the day
Keith Parker
From: David
Berlanny
Sent: 27 March 2009 14:36
Subject:
Little oil pourers
*
Tony
I remember being told not to use plated washers under the cylinder head
bolts of a car because the plating can dissolve out into the oil and
then damage the big end bearings. It’s probably not a problem
but
might be worth checking out just in case.
Keep up the good work on the website I really enjoy watching all the
details from afar.
Cheers
David Berlanny
Cartagena, Spain
*See Loco
Shed News (26th March 2009) Any experts out there who could give
authoritative guidance, please? ... tw
From: David Berlanny
Sent: 29 March 2009 18:04
Subject: little oil pourers - Think it's OK !!
http://www.keytometals.com/Article26.htm
Bearing
Materials. Tin
has a low coefficient of friction, which is the first consideration in
its use as a bearing material. Tin is structurally a weak metal, and
when used in bearing applications it is alloyed with copper and
antimony for increased hardness, tensile strength and fatigue
resistance. Normally, the quantity of lead in these alloys, called
tin-base babbits, is limited to 0.35 to 0.5% to avoid formation of the
tin-lead eutectic, which would significantly reduce strength properties
at operating temperatures.
Lead-base bearing alloys, called lead-base babbits,
contain up
to 10% tin and 12 to 18% antimony. In general, these alloys are
inferior in strength to tin-base babbits, and this must be equated with
their lower cost.
Bearing alloys must maintain a balance between softness
and
strength. Aluminium-tin bearing alloys represent an excellent
compromise between the requirements for high fatigue strength and the
need for good surface properties such as softness, seizure resistance
and embed ability. Aluminium-tin bearing alloys are usually employed in
conjunction with hardened steel or ductile iron crankshafts and allow
significantly higher loading than tin- or lead-base bearing alloys.
Low-tin aluminium-base alloys (5 to 7% Sn) containing
small
amounts of strengthening elements, such as copper and nickel, are often
used for connecting rods and thrust bearings in high-duty engines.
Strict dimensional tolerances must be adhered to and oil contamination
should be avoided. Alloys containing 20 to 40% tin, remainder
aluminium, show excellent resistance to corrosion by products of oil
breakdown and good embeddability, particularly in dusty environments.
The higher-tin alloys have adequate strength and better surface
properties, which make them useful for crosshead bearings in high-power
marine diesel engines.
From:
David
Charlesworth
Sent: 27 March 2009 10:21
Subject:
Gala
Tony
Nobody mentioned
Lord
Nelson's (running through Medstead on Friday 13th)
quartered buffers.
I can see how you do the first three quarters but how do you do the
last one without messing up the others?
Does anybody know what the
code
letter "A" stands for? On GW locos it was the shed
code.
As I'm in one of his pics of Met No.1 here's one of
Henry probably
just after he took it.
Regards
David Charlesworth
From: Matt Allen
Sent: 23 March 2009 21:29
Subject: Photo Charter
Hi Tony
As you saw in Jon's great video
we had another photo
charter at the MHR on Sunday. This was the fourth photo
charter
organized at the MHR by Warwick Falconer and myself. Incredibly, three
of them have had stunning weather.
Yet again we utilised the railway's marvellous BR-era freight, this
time with Wadebridge. The wagons are such
a credit to Chris Le Corney and Chris Willis and their teams at Alton and M4M.
This photocharter was a bit more of a challenge, with the loco facing
down the bank; the light angle gave some great effects but made the
photos a challenge for the thirty participants.
The crew were superb: we photographers can be a demanding bunch. The
crew put up with so many requests: “faster this
time”;
“more smoke”; “less smoke”;
“back a
bit”; “a longer run this time”; even,
“Can you
ring Alresford and ask them to change the signal because
it’ll
look better” (even though we were running under a
possession!) -
nothing was too much trouble.
I’d
like to put on record
my thanks to everyone who made the charter possible. The photos we got
are a real testimony to all the volunteers. One
of our participants summed it perfectly: “An unrebuilt
Bulleid on
this superb freight in glorious light … it doesn’t
get any
better”.
I’ve
attached a few pics from the day, although I’m still sorting
them out.
Regards,
Matt
From:
Mike Wells
Sent: 21 March 2009 16:17
Subject: Std 5 etc
Hello Tony
I haven't emailed you lately but I'm still an avid
watcher of the MHR web site - keep up the excellent
work.
I was so surprised
to see that the Standard 5 failed. One of the guys there once
described the S15 (#30506) as being as near to 'perpetual
motion' as was possible in a
steam engine (while I was clearing out compacted ash and
clinker from
inside its smokebox if I remember rightly) but I think #73096
had
been getting the same reputation recently. I do hope that you
publish the
findings of the investigation as I am intrigued to know what
went wrong.
Best Regards
Mike Wells
USA
I
update the website all I can, Mike. Look forward to seeing
you on your next visit ... tw
From: Jon
Bowers
Sent: 21 March 2009 13:58
Subject: #34007 charter
Hi Tony
No doubt Matt and co will send you plenty of pictures from the
photo-charter this morning, but thought you might like the attached video
(4.8MB, 21st March 2009).
Shame the event was a bit late starting, but the weather was perfect,
the crews soon got the hang of what the photographers wanted and it
turned out good in the end! Many thanks to all involved.
Thanks also to Chris Willis for serving teas at Medstead first thing -
nothing like a nice warm cuppa first thing on a sub-zero morning.
;-)
Cheers
Jon
From: Mark Ziemba
Sent: 20 March 2009 21:26
Hi Tony
Your photos of the
ex-cylinder from #73096 reminded me of the similar ones that were
posted of the damage to "Tangmere"
when the sump went pop. Looking at the bend on the piston rod, it is
clear that in both cases there are some serious forces at work inside a
steam engine that are invisible to the casual observer - until they
happen to take a hike !
Mark
Not
really, Mark. If you have 370 tons of train doing 25 mph that's
a lot of kinetic energy! If anything seriously interferes with the
working of the mechanism, something has to give and it'll be the
weakest part. Steam engines are very strongly constructed, so the
weakest part will go with quite a bang!
... tw, 20 March 2009, 22:27
Click for more mail relating to
2009 Spring Steam Gala
#73096
cylinder correspondence moved here
From:
Nick Bartlett
Sent: 19 March 2009 10:47
Subject: Lymington Flyer
Dear Tony
Please find enclosed photos of #41312 taken at the Gala on Saturday
14th March.
I am a Driver for SWT at Bournemouth and regularly work the Lymington
Branch with the Heritage Slam Door Stock.
The Lymington Flyer Headboard was made by Malcolm Ellis, who works at
Parkstone Ticket Office.
#41312 was the last steam loco to work on the Lymington Branch. If you
go to Lymington Town station there is a Heritage display showing the
history of the line, including a large photo of #41312's last train.
2008 was the 150th Anniversary of the Lymington Branch and it would
have been nice to have #41312 visit. As the engine could not come to us
we brought the headboard to the loco.
If you would like to add any of the enclosed photos to the Mid Hants
website, please feel free!
Cheers
Nick Bartlett
From: Philip Hunt
Sent: 16 March 2009 22:39
Subject: 2010 visit...
I have had to put my July 2009 visit off for 12 months to July 2010.
I have been checking your website on a regular basis and it is
interesting to see all the changes since I visited in 2005.
I will be bringing a companion; she enjoyed a train trip we did from
Gisborne to Muriwai (NZ) back in January and is looking forward to
visiting the MHR and other preserved railways.
Naturally we will be travelling round the UK on a railpass, what better
way to get round with all the traffic on your roads?
I noted No.850 was visiting recently, I would love to see her running
somewhere as I remember the "Lord Nelsons" from the 1950's.
My best regards to all those who make the MHR such a wonderful friendly
railway to visit.
Regards
Phil Hunt
WAIROA
New Zealand
From: James Paice
Sent: 08 March 2009 19:28
Subject: #33053 Shunting RAT
stock
Hi Tony
Whilst
at Alresford working on the Hampshire Unit on Saturday, I managed to
get a couple of photos of #33053 shunting the RAT stock.
I have a valid PTS
James Paice*
Platform Staff Alresford
Hampshire Unit Refurb Group
From: Colin Lockie
Sent: 06 March 2009 16:52
Subject: You are approaching the Strong Country
Hi,
I am writing about the delightful billboard the Watercress Line has
recently put up at Alton station
(and I believe there's another one elsewhere
on the railway).
I remember the "Strong Country" advertisements from going on holiday by
car to the West Country in the early 50s. They were placed
near
main roads as well as by the railway. "Model Rail" magazine
published a reproduction poster a few years ago and I have one on our
exhibition layout, but it shows a rebuilt "Merchant Navy", and I
would really like to have one showing an original "Merchant", such as I
remember from my boyhood (in blue, too) - just like the one you have
put up.
It would really help modellers if you could post a reasonably large,
straight on, photo of your Alton billboard on your
website. You
have one but it's rather small. Or if you don't want to give
it
away for free, I would be happy to pay, or make a suitable donation, in
return for such a photo.
Regards,
Colin Lockie
Ottawa, Canada
Colin
Lockie now has photos at the higher definition he
requested. Thank you to contributors ... tw
From: David Creasey
Sent: 01 March 2009 23:11
Subject: Today at the Mid Hants Railway
Hi Tony
After an unsuccessful attempt at photographing #70013 Oliver Cromwell
at Pangbourne
(my camera batteries failed without warning as the loco came into
view!!!)
I had to visit the Mid Hants to recover.
As always, the ambience of Alresford station (and a bacon, sausage and
egg roll)
did the trick and attached are photos I took - I hope you like
them.
David C
From: David Charlesworth
Sent: 01 March 2009 20:43
Subject: M4M snowdrops
Tony
The snowdrops looked good at Medstead & Four Marks today
Regards
David Charlesworth
From: Tony Hathaway
Sent: 01 March 2009 11:19
Subject: 28th February 2009
Dear Tony
Saturday seemed a normal day for most travellers on our railway: we had
coach reservations
for birthday parties with photographs taken with the
engine to celebrate a special day.
The father and son footplate crew were also
celebrating: fireman
Phill Hathaway is 21 on
2nd March 2009 - hence the ‘SPL
21’ disc.
I would like to thank all of those at Ropley who helped turn out an
immaculate engine to make
his day very special.
Regards
Tony Hathaway
From: Robin Hughes
Sent: 26 February 2009 15:35
Subject: The Eagle has landed
Hi Tony
Delivered* yesterday to
Alresford, Metro Cammell/ Pullman: "EAGLE" from Bluebell
Railway.
This Kitchen Diner was Built 1960 and will need a wash and brush-up
before joining our fleet.
Regards
Robin Hughes
*On loan from the NRM.
Delivered from the Bluebell Railway where it had previously been on loan
From: Archie Bennett
Sent: 23 February 2009 22:14
Subject: 2007 photos
Mr. Wood
Going through the Mid Hants site today I came across a number of
letters and photos provided by railfans.
During a brief May 2007 visit en route from
Amsterdam back to Toronto, I took a number of shots while wandering
around Ropley.
Although over a year old now, I have attached a couple that you may
find of interest.
Canadian Pacific (a
name that resonates here for different reasons) in the rain, and a 9F in the afternoon sun
Wait 5 minutes and the weather changes, as they say
Regards
Archie Bennett
Oakville, ON, Canada
From: Chris Searle
Sent: 20 February 2009 20:39
Subject: First run by #850 & #34007 & #60019 in action
Hello Tony
My Father and I came down today to capture #34007 and #60019 in action
on the service trains for the Ivor The Engine
event but mainly to see #850 Lord Nelson on her
first passenger run, a Wedding Special for two MHR volunteers: Chris
and Dawn.
Things started well in the morning but it was apparent that something
was wrong when #850 did not return in the afternoon. I
understand there were lubrication problems with #850 at Alton. I hear
the wedding party were rescued by a Routemaster bus and taken back to
Alresford. I guess it's an experience they won't forget! I hope they
all still had a very happy and enjoyable day and wish the newly-weds
all the best.
We waited at Medstead for the unusual pairing of #850 and #60019
returning from Alton.
Chris Searle
One
Two
Three
Four
Five
Six
From:
Ian Davey
Sent: 23 February 2009 13:07
The wedding party and guests travelled from Alton to Alresford on the
1555 Alton - Alresford service train. The wedding party did not have
use of a Routemaster bus but in fact a red Scania single decker bus
from Alder Valley Travel
A good time was had by all and
thanks to MHR staff who arranged a coach on the service train for the
wedding party.
From: Keith Adams
Sent: 20 February 2009 20:27
Subject: 850 at Alresford 20.2.2009
Tony
I thought you might like to see this, at Alresford early this
afternoon.
Wadebridge had just arrived from Alton and was about
to run round for the 1300 departure.
Lord Nelson was already coupled to the stock for its
Wedding Special leaving soon after 1400.
Congratulations to Chris and Dawn.
Keith Adams
From: Tony Storey
Sent: 20 February 2009 16:03
Subject: Yesterday at Alresford
Hi Tony
The Alresford team enjoyed another busy day yesterday.
Here are photos of the service trains entering the station plus the
happy crew of
Ivor.
Best wishes
Tony Storey
From: Annette Savill
Sent: 19 February 2009 21:32
Subject: Ivor day out
I would like to say THANK YOU to all the staff who made our day out
with Ivor a very special day indeed. Everyone was friendly and helpful
and made the day a very cheerful and memorable experience.
The boys aged 4 had particularly fun going behind Ivor, and seeing all
the characters brought old memories back for the Mums.
Here are some pictures. I hope they will show how much the boys enjoyed
the day.
We always love visiting the Watercress Line, but today was really
special.
With best wishes
Annette
From: Bob Shearman
Sent: 19 February 2009 21:00
Subject: Lord Nelson
Hi Tony,
#850 leaving Ropley for
the first (light engine) movement on the MHR :
Regards
Bob
From:
Horace Ward
Sent: 19 February 2009 22:27
Nice picture by Bob of 850 - that should pull in the crowds as time
passes.
Horace
From: Nigel Wilson
Sent: 19 February 2009 17:44
Subject: Ivor Week
Hello Tony
Just a note to thanks to everybody at MHR for an excellent IVOR THE
ENGINE event.
I visited with Michael and Philip and they enjoyed the Ivor ("It looks
just like the Ivor
doesn't it") and also videoing the 'big' trains (they both have the
filming bug now):
Ivor: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oshpeemdgK8
#60019: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dTxoORzVahk
#34007: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_FA8KuUkEA
At 4-30 as we headed home for tea I said, "Well where did the day go,
it's gone so quick".
Michael said "Yep, it always does at the Mid Hants; it's always a good
day!"
Attached is a picture of the boys with Idris the dragon.
Best regards
Nigel
Thank
you all - knew you'd like Ivor! That's Mr Wizard with 'Idris'
... tw
From: Graham Wright
Sent: 18 February 2009 23:35
Subject: To all staff and volunteers of the Mid Hants Railway
Dear All
On Tuesday I spent a lovely day on the Mid Hants Railway. With
their friendliness and politeness,
the volunteers do the Railway great
credit.
I remember when the line was open under BR, though I didn't travel on
it then. I was born and
brought up in Winchester and family days
out would begin on trains that would have started out
from Alton -
boarding a Thumper to Eastleigh and changing onto another one to
Portsmouth.
Or we'd take a steam train to Bournemouth.
Best wishes
Graham Wright
London SE16
Thank
you for taking
the trouble to write, Graham. We like our work and the people
we
work with at MHR: it makes all the difference, as you noticed
...
tw
From: William Stock
Sent: 17 February 2009 21:00
Subject:
Another excellent update to the website, by far the best website in
preservation IMHO.
Just one tiny comment though, when linking to pictures such as the set of six of Lord Nelson,
is there anyway that the photos could be linked so you can go through
them without having to go back to the main site?
There may well be a reason why not but it would be great to just be
able to click through them and then click to return to the main
site.
Is there any further news regarding the signal box hunt for medstead
and the resolution of the sad affairs regaring #76017 and
#34105?
William Stock
Thank
you for your kind comments about the website, William.
I use the system you
dislike when I have photos of interest IMHO to a specialist group
rather than of wide interest.
I also do this when
(as yesterday) I am about go with my wife and have little time
available, because it is quicker.
News regarding the
signalbox, 76017 and 34105 will of course be on the website when there
is anything to report.
BTW, I had to
retrieve your mail from my Junk Mail box because you showed no Subject.
...tw
From: John Barrowdale
Sent: 17 February 2009 11:52
Subject: 'The' Lord Nelson
Hi Tony
Seeing your note in loco shed
latest news on
the MHR website, it is not only Duncan's pet hate seeing the word 'The'
applied to every named locomotive, usually by our pig ignorant national
press, but has been my pet hate for as long as I can remember.
I would love to see a heritage railway or main line locomotive owner
knock up some mock nameplates just for one day, so for once the
national press would have it right for a change. How about 'The
Wadebridge' or 'The Bittern' on our railway or perhaps better still
'The Tornado' or 'The Flying Scotsman' because I bet when the latter
eventually goes back to traffic that is how it will appear in the Mail,
Sun, Express etc.
Best Wishes
Barney
(Rostered MHR Fireman) ... tw
From:
Peter Cutler
Sent: 17 February 2009 18:03
Subject: THE definitive article
Of course in a sense you are both right with regard to 850. Duncan
because it is named Lord Nelson and you because it is the only Lord
Nelson in Ropley yard. But then you knew that.
But having started this thread, could I ask your readers how they refer
to ships. We can keep with the railway theme. There was an IOW ferry
operated by The SR and later BR, called
‘Ryde’. So,
did one travel on Ryde, or ‘The Ryde’? Did one
cruise on
QE2 or ‘The QE2’?
Pete
From: Steve Robertson
Sent: 15 February 2009 22:08
Subject: Sunday 15th Feb
Tony
Had a superb dinner on Saturday night on the Watercress Line, we were
very grateful to all the volunteers that had left their loved ones at
home to work on the railway - they were all cheerful, chatty, highly
competent and made the experience a real pleasure: please pass on our
thanks.
Couldn't resist dropping by again
today on our way back home
Best regards
Steve Robertson
From: David Creasey
Sent: 15 February 2009 21:04
Subject: At the MHR, 15.2.09
Another fabulous day at the Mid Hants, Tony. Thanks to All.
Oh and special thanks to the signalman at Medstead who removed his high
vis jacket after
he'd crossed the track to exchange the token as he'd seen me waiting to
take a photo of the exchange.
David
From: Tony Storey
Sent: 15 February 2009 21:22
Subject: Ivor The Engine
Hi Tony
Ivor was kept pretty busy today, shuttling to and from the sidings and
Alresford's platform 2. Lots of eager passengers, small and large, were
carried in the brake van.
Best wishes
Tony Storey
MHR Volunteer
From: Ken Grinstead
Sent: 15 February 2009 17:02
Subject: Ivor
Tony
A poor shot of Ivor and the choir on Saturday morning.
Only use if nothing better!
Best wishes
Ken
Webmaster
writes, 14th February 2009:
Nothing to do with Mid Hants, but here's
new A1 Tornado
passing Winchfield Hurst on
time today on its way to Overton (water)
Movie
(3½MB,
14th February 2009): Tony Wood
TORNADO at
Speed passing Basingstoke at 2:30 pm Photo (14th February 2009):
Robin Hughes (MHR Volunteer)
and at
Winchfield Photo (14th February 2009): Lyn
Clay
From: Alex Penfold
Sent: 12 February 2009 08:47
Subject: Lord Nelson
Tony
I got this photo
of Lord Nelson basking in the morning light today.
I'm not sure when she arrived but she was pretty frosted up.
Alex Penfold
From: Steve Guess
Sent: 11 February 2009 08:34
Subject: Yarra Valley Railway, Australia
Tony
I enclose some reports from the Yarra Valley
Railway in Victoria, Australia. As you can see they
have lost most of their infrastructure in the fires.
I hope that space can be found on the Mid Hants site to offer our
condolences and support.
Many thanks
Steve Guess
Report
Pic1
Pic2
Pic3
Pic4
Pic5
Pic6
Pic7
Pic8
YVR
President
Heartbreaking
photos - even their railway sleepers are gone from under the rails!
... tw
From:
Henry ODwyer
Sent: 11 February 2009 13:25
Re Pic4
Am I right in thinking this
station featured in an episode of "Inspector Morse" and the
first "Mad Max" film? The scene looks familiar.
H.
Sent:
11 February 2009 20:29
To: 'generalmanager@yarravalleyrailway.org.au'
Subject: The fire
Hello Stephen
It’s hard to find words to express our immense sorrow and
sympathy after seeing the gut-wrenching photos of fire damage to your
railway.
Your railway friends here in UK are thinking of you all.
Tony Wood
Webmaster: http://www.watercressline.co.uk
From: Jeremy de Souza
Sent: 08 February 2009 19:57
Subject: Winter
sunset, Ropley, 7th February 2009
Hi Tony
Thought you might be interested in the attached. Apologies if you've
received thousands similar... Keep up the great work!
Other
pictures from that afternoon
Jeremy de Souza
Alton
From: Mark Drinkwater
Sent: 06 February 2009 14:10
Subject: #41312's last day
Hi Tony
On Sunday I got a few pictures of #41312's last day in service.
I know a lot of us in the loco department are sad #41312 has gone out
of service but
hopefully not for too long - it's a cracking little engine.
Mark
From: Terry Bailey
Sent: 06 February 2009 10:06
Subject: Urie Loco website link
Tony
I know that you've been very good to the Urie Loco Society in the past,
but can I ask whether you could consider giving the link to
www.urieloco.co.uk
a bit more prominence on the MHR website. We are yet
another facet of the Mid Hants Railway; a bit like the wagon
restoration team, who have a link on the loco shed home page.
We don't get that many people accessing our site, but the majority do
come from the MHR link. I could get a link put on our site
back to
the MHR, if you would like, although it won't swell your viewing
figures by very much.
What are your views?
Regards
Terry Bailey
Urie Loco Society
Newsletter editor
I do
my best for you but have to think of the MHR website as a whole and
stay true to my objectives
or I shall upset more browsers than I should please. Best way
to gain more
publicity for your endeavours would be to let me have photos and news
of your work as soon as possible - I can publish your news
and do update our website pretty often ... tw
From: Stephen Humby
Sent: 05 February 2009 22:45
Subject: A4 video
Hi Tony
I've finally got round to editing the video I took of #60019 on
10th January 2009 (6MB)
I hope it is of interest.
Regards,
Steve
Nick
in shirtsleeves on A4 footplate when it's -10°C outside
... tw
From: Mary Hannan
Sent: 03 February 2009 14:24
Subject: Snow
Hiya Tony
I thought you might like to see this photo I took of Alresford station
in the snow
on 2nd February 2009 as I was walking to work.
Mary Hannan
Information Office
Alresford Station
From: James Paice
Sent: 01 February 2009 18:57
Subject: Ivatt & Hampshire Unit
Hi Tony
Managed to get a few photos of the Hampshire
Unit and the Ivatt
today.
For the lineside photos I do hold a valid PTS.
James Paice
Platform Staff, Alresford
*
Last
day in service on current 10-year boiler ticket. Loco now
stopped for heavy general overhaul ... tw
From: John H Bird
Sent: 01 February 2009 21:01
Subject: #41312 rides into the sunset
Hi Tony
Sorry to see the wonderful Ivatt tank disappearing off the scene. This
is its last working on
the 15.00 from Alresford before it headed for the
sidings at Ropley.
A good time also to view
this
link to see side by side a similar situation, nearly
42 years ago,
with one of Keith Lawrence's superb 1960s photos showing it scuttling
off to the Salisbury
loco dump upon withdrawal, but not to the oblivion which many might
have expected.
History goes on!
Best wishes
John
From:
Chris Searle
Sent: 01 February 2009 16:04
Subject: Ivatt Swansong
Hello Tony
When I heard the wonderful Ivatt Tank was coming out of traffic this
weekend I couldn't resist a visit
to say farewell to her for a while.
She's been quite a performer and has travelled a fair few miles on this
ticket (I've seen her in action
at a few other lines).
Just out of curiosity how many miles has she clocked up over the ten
years?
She has given me some great memories. I will always remember one of her
Main Line jaunts
when she slogged up the 1 in 60 bank at Camberley from a signal check
with six carriages in tow.
Quite a stirring sound!
Regards
Chris Searle
58500
miles (from Ropley Manor
records) ... tw, 2nd Feb 2009
From: Stephen Morley
Sent: 01 February 2009 14:04
Subject: Ivatt this afternoon
Tony
I took this from the footpath just before the Bishops Sutton road
bridge.
13:00 departure to Alton
Stephen
Last day of operation
for the Ivatt, then stopped for heavy general overhaul and 10-year
boiler certificate ... tw
From: Steven Humby
Sent: 30 January 2009 18:27
Hi Tony
Thought I'd try and scan a 35mm slide from my archives albeit by a very
low tech method.
Apart from slight cropping of the edges this is the result, a not very
newsworthy picture of
the T9 at Ropley. From the colours I think it must be Autumn, probably
1986.
See you soon
Steve
From: Sue Clements
Sent: 30 January 2009 15:27
Subject: IVOR
Ivor has arrived
Sue Clements
Membership Secretary. MHRPS
Admin & Accounts Manager MHR Ltd
From:
Richard Emmons
Sent: 28 January 2009 22:54
Subject: 9F in pieces
Dear Tony Wood
I have this week been scanning some old 35mm B&W photos that I
had
not looked at in years and one roll was taken on a visit to the Great
Central Railway near Loughborough. Although I don't remember exactly
when I took it and I was never any good at making notes the photo shows
a car in the bottom left corner with the date 31/11/81 on the tax disc
and that does fit my vague recollections. It seems in 1981 the 9F you
are currently working on was in pieces.
I found your website through searching for the current location of
92212.
When will it be in service again, maybe I shall be able to photograph
it whole and in working order!
Thanks for an enjoyable website.
Yours
Richard Emmons
Thank you Richard
– most interesting. How
much of our website have you explored? There are many photos
and
movies of #92212 in action at MHR as well as reports on work being done
on it. Our
search tool http://www.google.com/cse?cx=015641600765316575363%3Ayke8yff0g4e&ie=UTF-8&q=9f&sa=Search
provides a good starting point for
you!
By tradition, anyone asking
when a particular loco will again be in service is told: “In
six
weeks.” You will of course not be fooled by that and will
understand
that progress depends mainly on both volunteer and financial resources
available ... tw
From: Gerald Wheeler
Sent: 21 January 2009 14:39
Subject:Mid Hants Railway,
New Years Day 2009
Dear Sir
I thought it's about time I e-mailed you to say what a great day I had
on New Year's Day this year, riding in your DMU and behind No 73096.
I met and talked with a couple of your staff and enjoyed a good cup of
tea & a tuna sandwich. I can think of nothing better
than doing it all again over this coming
year.
Thank you all for providing me with a great day and many happy
memories. I send one of 30 odd pictures I took on the day
which might be of
interest too you.
Regards & best wishes
Gez Wheeler
From: Dawn Morgan
Sent: 19 January 2009 10:11
Subject: A photo for you
Good morning
I just wanted to let you know what a wonderful day my family had
yesterday. It was my Father's 74th
birthday treat and we packed a lunch and made a day of it.
The six of us had lots of fun and enjoyed
exploring the stations and exhibits.
I've attached a photo that is slightly different than those on your
website. I took it looking out of the back of
the train, through the keyhole, while waiting at Ropley station.
Best wishes to you all and keep up the good work.
Dawn Morgan
Thank you Dawn.
Amy took a similar
one on 29th April 2007 ...
tw
From: Mark Ziemba
Sent: 19 January 2009 22:05
Subject: Web Movie - The Big One
Hi Tony
If I recall correctly, back in January 2003 (six years - yes, six years
ago), you posted the first web movie on the MHR web site, of the 9F charging up to Medstead
(although others in the catalogue are dated earlier, I believe that
this was the first one to be actually posted).
My, how things have changed !
Congratulations on The Big
One, keep up the excellent work.
Best regards
Mark Ziemba
Fleet, Hampshire
Yes
Mark, that was about the
first 'movie' I shot with FujiFilm digital camera #2. My FujiFilm
camera #3 has better definition. The 9F shot followed my realisation as
I drove down the hill towards Chawton that the train was due. I hastily
stopped at Brick Kiln Lane and, unable to find anything suitable to
support the camera, hand-held initially at 10x zoom. You can see the
camera shake when I automatically responded to the driver's whistle by
raising a hand in acknowledgement! I reckon it captures the drama or I
wouldn't have used it.
Those who take video more seriously criticise my technique but the idea
is just to show our browsers what they would see if they were there;
it's journalism not art.
Thank you for your encouragement ... tw
From: Garry Finch
Sent: 17 January 2009 22:51
Subject: A few photos
I thought you might like to see a few of the photos I took when my Dad
and I visited the Watercress Line last weekend. Unfortunately we missed
the real frosty conditions, instead we just had really cold conditions,
but it was worth it.
You can see the pictures here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/gazraa/sets/72157612686719524/
I'm not really into steam trains so I wouldn't normally visit a place
such as the Watercress Line but the day was very enjoyable, especially
the photographic opportunities, and both myself and my Dad had a good
day out.
All the best
Garry
From: Ray Briscall
Sent: 14 January 2009 20:13
Subject: Ivatt at Ropley 10/1/09
Tony
Thought these two pics of #41312 taken at Ropley Saturday 10/1/09 in
freezing conditions might be of
interest.
Regards
Ray Briscall
From: David Warwick
Sent: 12 January 2009 06:12
Subject: Sunday 11th January 2009
Hi Tony
A few from Sunday.
regards
David
*
What a difference a day makes! ... tw
From: Stephen Humby
Sent: 10 January 2009 23:18
Subject: Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!
Hi Tony
Angela & I were on the DMMU today and thought we might see some
spectacular pictures on the website
due to the freezing weather. Our
regular contributors have certainly delivered the goods!
Thought you might like to see things from a different angle all the
same.
(Angela took the shot from the cab)
Regards,
Steve *
One Two Three
See also
From:
Henry ODwyer
Sent: 10 January 2009 17:10
Subject: J Bird Pic
Tony
Stunning image there from Mr Bird.
I'd love my name under that one.
Well done.
H. *
From: John Bird
Sent: 10 January 2009 21:17
Hi Tony
Would just like to thank Henry for his very kind comments, the MHR
volunteer who knocked on my door suggesting I took a photo in the
unusual snowy/frosty conditions and above all my dear wife
who
(despite being poorly) pushed me out of the house into the cold Arctic
environment and encouraged me to go and get a special photo!
It
was one of those lucky days when everything worked out just right!
Thanks for using it.
John Bird *
From:
Martin Curtis
Sent: 03 January 2009 15:30
Subject: Photos
Hi Tony
A few shots I took today of the Std
5 and the DMMU.
For the lineside photos I do hold a valid PTS and I am a
volunteer on the railway.
A
perfect day for taking photos.
Enjoy
Regards
Martin Curtis *
Station Staff, Ropley
From: Alex Penfold
Sent: 02 January 2009 15:36
Subject: Watercress Line
Tony
I was out taking some pictures today and I managed to get this shot
with my iPhone.
It's not the best camera but the shot is quite atmospheric.
From: Tony
Wood
To: Matt Allen
Sent: 30 December 2008 09:31
Subject: Seems others like the
photo too
http://www.watercressline.co.uk/images/svdec08.jpg
Tony Wood
Webmaster
From:
Matt Allen
Sent: 31 December 2008 11:21
Hi Tony
Excellent stuff, that’s an impressive amount of hits.
I had a call from “The
Observer”
today, they’ve seen the pic on your website and have asked
for a
copy. Looks like they want to use it in their magazine that
comes
out on Sunday, something in the “Travel” section!
Have a great NY.
Regards,
Matt
Article
today in The Observer on MHR's RAT but I didn't find Matt's
Chawton Bank photo of #34007 there ... tw,
4th Jan 2009
From: David Allsop
Sent: 30 December 2008 13:46
Subject: MHR 28th December 2008
Tony
May I wish a happy and a prosperous New Year to you and all at the Mid
Hants Railway.
I enclose some digital photos taken on Sunday 28th December 2008 when
Standard Class No 73096 and WC Class No 34007 Wadebridge were on the
service trains and as an added bonus the Thumper arrive at Medstead and
Four Marks Station while I was there.
Incidentally, the photo of 34007 Wadebridge running up through Chawton
Woods was the penultimate Alton to Alresford train of the 2008
season.
Regards
David Allsop
One
Two
Three
David
Allsop holds an
MHR PTS Cert and is on the MHR Official Photographers list
...
tw
From: John Godfrey
Sent: 27 December 2008 18:09
Subject: Christmas Leave
Tony
Congratulations on a superb event today. I took my wife along for only
her second visit to the MHR and what a good choice! Superb atmosphere,
late running trains (enemy action!!) and even hot water rationing due
to boiler failure in the buffet coach! However that aside the day was
great and I have a few pictures of the scene at Alresford
Station.
The event must have been good as my wife now wants to go to War on the Line next
year!!
Congratulations once again.
John & Irina Godfrey
Hedge End
One
Two
Three
Four
Five
Six
From:
Colin Fuller
Sent: 30 December 2008
Dear Tony
I am so pleased that Christmas
Leave
was such a success and much appreciated by the public and the
re-enactors. The messages of thanks make all the effort
worthwhile.
Once again people travelled from all over the country and abroad to be
at Alresford on the 27th. The entertainers alone started from Kent at
4.00 a.m.
I attach a picture of the Clover
Girls performing their act in the Station Yard.
My thanks to all those who contributed to the event.
Colin
From: Matt Allen
Sent: 27 December 2008 12:35
Subject: MHR Boxing Day
Hi Tony
Hope you had a great Xmas.
The great weather was too much for me the resist yesterday afternoon -
the light was as good as it gets.
Matt
From: The Deane Family
Sent: 24 December 2008 17:36
Subject: Santa Specials
Dear All
We have just returned from the 12.15 Santa
Special
from Alresford today. It is our Little Girl's first Christmas (she is 7
months old) and as soon as we stepped on the platform she knew
something special was happening. All the staff couldn't do enough and
when Santa turned up well our Little Girl's smile said it all. Plus
Santa coming back for photo a with her made our day! The only
thing we were concerned about was that no one checked our tickets
anyone could have jumped on the train; surely this can't be good
practice?
A fantastic day out.
Happy Christmas and Happy New Year to all at the Watercress
Line
Steve and Tara Deane
Checking
tickets is not a problem, Steve: we just count the empty
seats - if
there were any - and don't inconvenience our
passengers. ... tw
From: C & N
Roberts
Sent: 23 December 2008 19:03
Subject: Santa Specials
Dear Tony
My wife and I have just returned from taking our two children on the Santa
Special from Alresford this afternoon.
We
would both like to express our thanks to all the staff and volunteers
who made our afternoon so special. From the moment we were welcomed
onto the platform, the staff and volunteers went out of their way to
make sure we all enjoyed our trip. A special thank-you to Santa, who
gave the children some lovely presents, then returned for some
photographs, which we will treasure.
As we pulled into Alresford at
the end of the trip, our 2 year old son gave everyone a round of
applause........a super start to Christmas.
Thank you to the Watercress Line - it is more than a day out, it builds
memories that we will treasure for many years!
Colin and Nicci Roberts
From: Tony Lamb
Sent: 22 December 2008 16:04
Subject: Xmas Lunch
Please forward this letter to the Chairman/CEO of the Watercress
Line
Dear Sir
I booked a party of four for the Xmas Lunch on the Watercress Line on
the 12th December 2008.
I am writing to express how delightful the experience turned out to be.
Every single aspect of the event had been carefully thought out and
executed by your people, making it a most memorable occasion.
The cuisine was excellent, the food was piping hot and delicious. It
was served flawlessly by the most attentive of staff. The dining
carriage was dressed to the highest standard making for a most
comfortable ride and meal. The stations along the route were equally
well presented and added to the occasion.
All in all, I cannot think of a more pleasurable experience that I or
my party have had for many years.
Please be sure to commend all your people for a job well done, they
certainly deserve it!
Yours Sincerely
Tony Lamb
Managing Director
Smart Electronic Technologies Ltd
North Street
Winkfield
From: Gavin &
Elaine
Sent: 16 December 2008 17:26
Subject: Bittern pic
Hi Tony
Here in Perth, many people remember Bittern
pounding the rails
between Glasgow and Aberdeen in the last days of her BR service. I have
to say that I am not old enough to be one of them!
The railscot.co.uk website
is building an enormous archive of railway photos and today's "new
additions" feature one of Bittern leaving Perth
with the Aberdeen - Glasgow Buchanan Street service. It can be seen
here: http://ccgi.ewanbeth.force9.co.uk/cgi-bin/images/imagecomplete.php?id=21779.
Sadly, the direct line between Perth and Aberdeen is no more, sharing
the same fate as Buchanan Street station.
Your contemporary Bittern
gallery shows that at least one element of that era is still
alive and well though!
Cheers
Gavin
From: Peter Cutler
Sent: 15 December 2008 20:55
Subject: Matt Allen
Tony
I expect someone else has pointed this out to Matt but in case it has
passed him
by, his panned shot of CanPac which accompanied the article
about the Mid Hants
in November 2008 'Railway Magazine' is described by
a letter writer in that
publication’s current (January) issue as
‘the most beautiful railway shot I’ve ever
seen’.
Pete
Pete
is a MHR volunteer; Matt is a
PTS-holding MHR official photographer ... tw
There
was an amusing aside from John Sowerby about this in the MPD mess room.
He was rostered
on the footplate
on this run, was about to use the pep
pipe and had called "Feet up" -
as is customary.
More 'characteristic' would be Duncan's position in the header photo here
... tw
From:
John Sowerby
Sent: 21
December 2008 22:29
Tony
A slight
correction to what was
said about the person sitting on the side of the cab of CP: I'm the
person sitting there (the cleaner), Neil, (the fireman) was the one who
had just shouted 'Feet!', so I had quickly sat up there to avoid
getting a boot-full (it's better than standing on the shovelling plate
and banging one's head on the roof), and the driver, Nigel, almost had
his feet on the reverser.
John
From: Craig Nobbs
Sent: 08 December 2008 14:06
Subject: RAT
Dear Tony
I would be most grateful if you could pass on my thanks to all
concerned for a splendid evening on Saturday's RAT. Our group had
a
great pre-Christmas jolly, enjoying some excellent ales and it was all
made possible by the efforts of the on-board team; they do
an
outstanding job time and again.
As for atmosphere, I have to say how ethereal a gently simmering
Bullied looked in the freezing cold by gaslight at Alresford
station.
Sorry, but no photo could do it justice!
Finally, may I wish you all the compliments of the Season.
Best wishes
Craig Nobbs
Thank
you Craig ... tw
From:
Colin Fuller
Next Days
Out With Thomas at the Watercress
Line: 8th -
16th August 2009 
From: Matt Allen
From:
Nick Bartlett
From:
Chris Searle
From:
Richard Emmons
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