Our annual summer Open day took place on the 1st of September and thw weather looked fine when we arrived on site to set up for the expected visitors. Unfortunately we had a short storm mid morning and after lunch which dampened the event a little but despite the indifferent weather we had a good attendance and visitors and members all enjoyed the day.

In addition to the running trains and miniature Traction Engines we were lucky to have 'Busking Buddies', a live band who lifted everyones spirits during the storms and afterwards with various genres of music for all ages. Big thank you to them for attending and also for playing despite the rain.

We were also lucky to have a visiting Steam Loco 'Hugh' was brought along by Stephen who ran all day alongside Merlin and a Petrol Electric loco. All 3 locos were kept busy all day with a stream of visitors eager to ride behind each one and decide on their favourite one. Thanks to all the drivers for keeping the queues manageable by their fast turnaround at the stations and thanks also to the guards who ensured fast loading and unloading of passengers safely.

We also had two visiting Traction Engine along with five of our own members engines plus a steam car. the steaming bay looked perfect with all of the engines lined up. Thank you to all who presented their engines, answered the many questions from visitors and also provided rides around the site.

The tearoom provided refreshments and cold food. Outside the barbecue provided hot food all day. Many thanks to the tearoom and barbecue teams who once again did an excellent job.

Overall another succesful event which was only possible due to the dedication of members hard work prior to and during the event.

I think the photos below capture the atmosphere better than words so please find them below.

June / July 2019