Down to the last Derek
Thursday 13 September 2012
Two events of note at Tuesday's well-attended meeting at the football club (apart from England's lacklustre draw with Ukraine of course). Ian gave a presentation on I K Brunel - the Early Years and Derek the Younger made his farewells before removing himself to about as far away as he could get from us, Australia to be specific. We were assured it was nothing we said, but purely for family reasons, and he would keep in touch via the magic string of email and internet.
Corris in the rain, and sun
Wednesday 05 September 2012
They say that if you can't see Corris station from the museum then it's raining, and if you can see it it's still raining. A little harsh on the Dulas valley perhaps, and for one day over the August bank holiday it was very warm and very sunny. That day Tony spent down a mine, to minimise the risk of sunstroke. For the rest of the time three of us plus Ian (another Corris member) ran the newly-completed Walmer Bridge live steam layout at the exhibition in the village school, to the great delight of the exhibition manager and the modest amusement of the visitors.
This time we had the luxury of multiple vehicles, so cramming all the layout into one was fortunately not necessary. As before the layout and its attendant locomotives ran faultlessly all weekend, with Frank's Rochester Castle proving conclusively that manual control is perfectly adequate for an indoor layout. And in the intervals spent above ground Tony gained his Preparing and Driving a Model Steam Locomotive proficiency badge, Grade 3 (senior class).
Some photos are here.
This time we had the luxury of multiple vehicles, so cramming all the layout into one was fortunately not necessary. As before the layout and its attendant locomotives ran faultlessly all weekend, with Frank's Rochester Castle proving conclusively that manual control is perfectly adequate for an indoor layout. And in the intervals spent above ground Tony gained his Preparing and Driving a Model Steam Locomotive proficiency badge, Grade 3 (senior class).
Some photos are here.
Firing up on the Ratty
Wednesday 29 August 2012
They say there is a pyromaniac in all of us, and recently Tony's inner fire-raiser was given full rein on a return visit to the Ravenglass railway. What is cut down must be burnt up, despite a soggy substrata that required a mini-canal to drain surface water away from the chosen fire-ground. Fortunately the wind carried the smoke away from the track, so ex-chairman Peter and his fellow-drivers could continue timetabled services without interruptions, or respirators.
Tony is able to report that Mr Mills and his significantly better half are now installed in permanent accommodation at Dalegarth, although the latter is still commuting.
Tony is able to report that Mr Mills and his significantly better half are now installed in permanent accommodation at Dalegarth, although the latter is still commuting.
Playing trains in the Presidential Suite
Thursday 16 August 2012
Well not actually playing trains, more enjoying a slideshow of more of Tony's railway experiences, which seem to be accumulating faster than he can relate them. On this occasion the monthly meeting was held at Southport Football Club, for reasons of variety and of licensed bar availability.
Experienced presenter that he was, Tony did not start with the main feature but with a taster, in the form of a short film of steam around Bury. The interval was marked not only by sandwiches courtesy of Morrisons but also by a video of Jim's recent barbecue and steam-up, complete with authentic derailments. The evening was considered enough of a success for at least one return visit to be booked, although at the current rate more will be required to keep up with the deputy chairman's exploits.
Experienced presenter that he was, Tony did not start with the main feature but with a taster, in the form of a short film of steam around Bury. The interval was marked not only by sandwiches courtesy of Morrisons but also by a video of Jim's recent barbecue and steam-up, complete with authentic derailments. The evening was considered enough of a success for at least one return visit to be booked, although at the current rate more will be required to keep up with the deputy chairman's exploits.
A double dose of steam
Wednesday 15 August 2012
Last weekend saw not one but two live-steam layouts on show at the West Lancs summer gala, with new layout Walmer Bridge alongside the resident Hundred End. And just for variety Mike brought his current 009 layout on the Sunday. Six SMRS members were in attendance in one capacity or another (including the vitally important one of critical spectating) plus five from the local 16mm group to lend a bit of technical competence to the task of running steam all weekend.
Outside the engine shed six full-size locos competed for the available track space, but inside no less than twelve miniature versions operated, albeit not all at the same time. And much to the relief of the owner, the event proved that Walmer Bridge could fit in his car, and the vehicle could even be driven legally. Corris here we come.
Some photos are here, and if you can stand it, here.
Outside the engine shed six full-size locos competed for the available track space, but inside no less than twelve miniature versions operated, albeit not all at the same time. And much to the relief of the owner, the event proved that Walmer Bridge could fit in his car, and the vehicle could even be driven legally. Corris here we come.
Some photos are here, and if you can stand it, here.
The Porthmadog and Llyn, Isle of Man (South) and Cripple Creek Railway
Monday 06 August 2012
Why have one garden railway when you can have two? There is no sensible answer to this question, so Jim and Fiona's annual birthday barbecue (his birthday, as hers ceased some time ago, at least for official purposes) was a double-tracked affair, with a Thin Controller, a Shedmaster, a Master of Ceremonies and a Head Chef all gainfully employed in ensuring proceedings ran smoothly. And so they did, despite the odd rain shower and one slightly alarming incident when a train on the upper track took the direct, gravity-assisted pathway to the lower track. Fortunately only minor damage resulted.
Some more photos are here.
Some more photos are here.
Bowing out in style
Tuesday 31 July 2012
Retirement planning is a necessity nowadays, according to HM Government, and SMRS were faced with this requirement recently when it became clear that Saltash was starting to feel all of its fifteen years, and was in need of spending more time with its rolling stock. Consequently a big party was arranged in Victoria Park by the Woodvale Rally organisers, with lots of other layouts and other attractions laid on to ensure Saltash's last public appearance was one to remember. The fact that the usual venue at the RAF station was deemed inadequate for such an event speaks volumes for the layout's standing in the modelling world - the media story of asbestos under the taxi-ways was of course merely for public consumption.
And so for 48 hours Saltash was the star of the show, with large numbers of the railway fraternity coming to pay homage (or at least an entry fee). The all-star supporting cast included Terry's Sandale, Ian's Shell Cove and Eastbank MRC's Binns, together with numbers of SMRS members that on occasion reached double figures. No doubt conscious of the need to put on a good show, the layout ran well all weekend, with just a dicky controller to remind us of who was actually in charge and to test our on-the-fly maintenance skills. A bonus was the distribution of exhibition flyers to anyone coming with ten yards of our pitch, at least 800 judging by the diminished level of stock at the end.
And the fate of Saltash once Monday morning arrived with no work to go to? A temporary home in a garage whilst Jim's capacious cellars (to be renamed Dunshowing) are refurbished to the necessary high standard. Rumours that personal GPS systems will be provided to avoid visitors becoming disorientated in the maze of corridors and layout rooms under Maison Ford have yet to be confirmed, but seem entirely believable.
And so for 48 hours Saltash was the star of the show, with large numbers of the railway fraternity coming to pay homage (or at least an entry fee). The all-star supporting cast included Terry's Sandale, Ian's Shell Cove and Eastbank MRC's Binns, together with numbers of SMRS members that on occasion reached double figures. No doubt conscious of the need to put on a good show, the layout ran well all weekend, with just a dicky controller to remind us of who was actually in charge and to test our on-the-fly maintenance skills. A bonus was the distribution of exhibition flyers to anyone coming with ten yards of our pitch, at least 800 judging by the diminished level of stock at the end.
And the fate of Saltash once Monday morning arrived with no work to go to? A temporary home in a garage whilst Jim's capacious cellars (to be renamed Dunshowing) are refurbished to the necessary high standard. Rumours that personal GPS systems will be provided to avoid visitors becoming disorientated in the maze of corridors and layout rooms under Maison Ford have yet to be confirmed, but seem entirely believable.
Playtime in the garden again
Sunday 08 July 2012
Timing is everything, so it is said, and Richard and Marilyn got theirs spot-on yesterday, with a rare sunny day in this weird summer to host their first official 16mm Association garden railway event. The railway and its landscaping were carefully fettled by the respective specialists, beer and sandwiches prepared, the SMRS official urn filled with tea water and a barbeque planned for later in the evening. A good dozen turned up from near and far to drive trains, sit in the sun and/or hold earnest literary discussions, with teacup poised delicately between thumb and forefinger.
The Ruff Lane Quarry Railway (Phase 1) is a continuous run with varying gradients and tight-ish curves, with the added feature of a ground-level traverse through a man-shed that also houses an 00 layout. A lift-up section allows access to the far reaches of the 16mm line, whilst also targeting unwary operators at head level. A short section of 45mm track represents the beginning of a main line. We understand outline planning permission has been granted to permit extension of one, or possibly both, gauges in a north-westerly direction across the rear of the garden. The water feature at the far end is in urgent need of encirclement and bridging, and we look forward to further visits in due course to inspect progress. And more of the same weather please.
The Ruff Lane Quarry Railway (Phase 1) is a continuous run with varying gradients and tight-ish curves, with the added feature of a ground-level traverse through a man-shed that also houses an 00 layout. A lift-up section allows access to the far reaches of the 16mm line, whilst also targeting unwary operators at head level. A short section of 45mm track represents the beginning of a main line. We understand outline planning permission has been granted to permit extension of one, or possibly both, gauges in a north-westerly direction across the rear of the garden. The water feature at the far end is in urgent need of encirclement and bridging, and we look forward to further visits in due course to inspect progress. And more of the same weather please.
The sleeper trip does a foreigner
Friday 06 July 2012
It's June, it's raining, so it must be another sleeper trip. This time the vigorous new management team (average age 61 years and 9 months) took the bold decision to visit both halves of the Auld Alliance. Not deliberately, you understand, that might have been too much even for our polynational diversity-friendly members. It just happened that after going to Kent via Edinburgh (doesn't everybody?) it seemed to be a mere blip on a fast-moving horizon to extend our reach under the Chunnel to Paris. And, a world first for our excursions, wives and/or/but not both girlfriends might come to.
Space does not permit a detailed account here, save to say that six members traversed the Scottish lowlands three times in two directions on three different routes, did a Glasgow-Euston sleeper for the first time, and visited three railways in the Garden of England. An unexpected bonus was a visit to the Hornby Railway Exhibition at Margate, which turned out to be a better-than-expected nostalgia-fest. And Chatham Dockyard not only gave for most of us the first opportunity to explore a submarine (but not alas fire off any torpedoes) but also to try some local real ale at their very own micro-pub. Such was the success of the trip that next year's event may also be WAG-assisted, and possibly involve more foreign lands to the immediate west of the UK.
Some more photos, which will be added to as and I get round to it, are here.
Space does not permit a detailed account here, save to say that six members traversed the Scottish lowlands three times in two directions on three different routes, did a Glasgow-Euston sleeper for the first time, and visited three railways in the Garden of England. An unexpected bonus was a visit to the Hornby Railway Exhibition at Margate, which turned out to be a better-than-expected nostalgia-fest. And Chatham Dockyard not only gave for most of us the first opportunity to explore a submarine (but not alas fire off any torpedoes) but also to try some local real ale at their very own micro-pub. Such was the success of the trip that next year's event may also be WAG-assisted, and possibly involve more foreign lands to the immediate west of the UK.
Some more photos, which will be added to as and I get round to it, are here.
Another encyclopaedic discourse
Friday 06 July 2012
With the rise of the internet the role of the encyclopaedia seems doomed to diminish and disappear, but the speaker at the recent monthly talk is a walking, talking version of such a tome, at least as far as British steam railways is concerned. On this occasion John rummaged around his very comprehensive cranial database and gave us a detailed account of the history of those magnificent machines, the A4s and other streamliners of the LNER.
And no-one dared ask 'Isn't Flying Scotsman an A4?' Probably just as well.
And no-one dared ask 'Isn't Flying Scotsman an A4?' Probably just as well.
Modernism rules, but briefly
Sunday 03 June 2012
Most SMRS members are fairly traditional in their approach to layout control, but occasionally something new stirs in the circuits, and for a short time a revolution is threatened in the way we do things. Fortunately for the ultra-conservative wing of the club it was only Peter fiddling with the wiring on Portland St Lower to demonstrate his DCC locos. Joe provided the necessary technical supervision and the essential level of threat should normal service fail to be resumed at the end of the evening.
However the transformation to Schorndorf station went without a hitch and a small selection of German/Austrian locos were tested successfully, along with some of Dave's sound-equipped locos. And afterwards almost all of the wires were put back in their right places.
However the transformation to Schorndorf station went without a hitch and a small selection of German/Austrian locos were tested successfully, along with some of Dave's sound-equipped locos. And afterwards almost all of the wires were put back in their right places.
Tracklaying on Talisker
Thursday 31 May 2012
It seems no sooner that the ex-chairman has absconded to Cumbria than he is back again working on a layout. Using his new iPad Ithingy he has supplied photographic evidence of developments regarding the main line for Talisker Glen. One suspects Allan has done most of the tekkie bits, but progress is progress nonetheless, and we should be grateful for it.
Summer has arrived - official
Thursday 24 May 2012
There are certain tell-tale markers for the arrival of summer at Portland St. One is the regrettable exposure of certain parts of certain lower limbs to the fickle elements, another is the sight of grown men grovelling in the garden trying to get the track sorted and to run trains, simultaneously. Both indicators were present on Tuesday evening. Yet the sun did shine, and the track was fettled (sort of) and trains, or at least locomotives, did run.
For the first time in recorded club history two live steam locos ran on the track, even double-light-engine, if that is the correct term. And the near-universal adoption of radio control means that there was far less running about after errant items of stock, which is a big improvement for the operators, at the expense of the entertainment value for the spectators.
For the first time in recorded club history two live steam locos ran on the track, even double-light-engine, if that is the correct term. And the near-universal adoption of radio control means that there was far less running about after errant items of stock, which is a big improvement for the operators, at the expense of the entertainment value for the spectators.
The good, the bad and the laywers
Wednesday 16 May 2012
Most people can be quite defensive when their chosen trade or profession comes in for criticism. Not so Richard, however. Last night he fearlessly exposed lawyers as the prime movers behind a series of railway-building bubbles in the early years of the industry, each larger and more crash-prone that the one before. His presentation showed, with the devastating clarity that comes from rigorous research, that greedy capitalism was at the root of 19th-century railway mania, and lawyers had their grubby little mitts all over it. The fact that MPs didn't really want to know was no surprise, and neither that ten years is along time in both business and politics, so the same scam can be repeated several times on a forgetful and gullible public. There were a few mutterings amongst the audience that nothing had changed, and certain modern-day railway companies, and their political cronies, were just as bad. Such scepticism is totally unfounded, of course.
Richard's full confession is here.
Richard's full confession is here.
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Bears in the woods - official
Monday 07 May 2012
Sunday marked two events of potentially momentous proportions, a new French president was elected and West Lancs held its annual Teddy Bears event. The latter was probably more significant in Hesketh Bank and environs, not least because SMRS were involved in not less than three layouts in the engine shed. Mike's 009 and Terry's N gauge models were installed next to the West Lancs live steam layout, and all three performed well all afternoon, to appreciative audiences. Outside in the relatively-speaking real world Irish Mail and Montalban took child-sized bears and their human minders to experience close encounters with their grown-up cousins in the Wild Wood. As the article in today's Independent had it, a little bit of nonsense is the secret of a sane life.
Some photos are here.
Some photos are here.
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A garden for all seasons
Monday 23 April 2012
The arrival of Spring means something just has to be made over, renovated or just plain and simply tarted up. This year the garden was the chosen victim, and before it could lodge a protest, demand a recount or call for a second opinion it was dug up, levelled and gravelled, to produce a totally new look which its own mother would not recognise.
The result is hopefully a low-maintenance multi-purpose leisure facility which will enhance the external railway modelling experience. At the very least two new benches means we have at last somewhere to sit and watch the trains go by (Merseyrail or 16mm, depending on what happens to be running at the time).
The result is hopefully a low-maintenance multi-purpose leisure facility which will enhance the external railway modelling experience. At the very least two new benches means we have at last somewhere to sit and watch the trains go by (Merseyrail or 16mm, depending on what happens to be running at the time).
Cheque-book modelling is alive and well
Friday 20 April 2012
There are many ways of acquiring a new layout, the simplest (but probably not the cheapest) is to buy one from someone who has done all the hard building work. There are those who hold that constructing the layout is the primary source of modelling pleasure, but Hilary is not one of their number, as evidenced by a recent home delivery from Heywood MRC.
Fears that modifications to the front door portal would be required to effect entry of the layout turned out to be unfounded, although the model is no small thing.
In the end only one question remained - would you buy a second-hand model railway from such as these?
Fears that modifications to the front door portal would be required to effect entry of the layout turned out to be unfounded, although the model is no small thing.
In the end only one question remained - would you buy a second-hand model railway from such as these?
Yet another feeding frenzy
Wednesday 18 April 2012
One could be forgiven for thinking that socialising has a higher satisfaction rating in modelling in any members' survey. However the truth is that one has to eat, and why not in convivial company at Tony's, with the householder himself providing both the sustenance and the entertainment? We couldn't think why not either, so Tuesday evening saw us enjoying not only a cold collation but also Episode 2 of Confessions of a Footplate Junkie. This included more adventures with the Duke of Gloucester, and trips on the North York Moors railway and the Ffestiniog.
Back in the garden again
Tuesday 17 April 2012
For some people, mid-April is a touch early for running railways in the garden. However that particular branch of the fraternity is a particularly hardy one, so attending a steam-up of the newly-renamed Madog & Mersey Railway in south Liverpool had no terrors for selected SMRS members last Sunday. In the event the weather was kind, with a warmish sun competing with a coolish breeze all day, the result being a modest score-draw.
About a dozen turned up and spent a pleasant afternoon driving live steamers and battery diesels around a complex circuit which required just a little more route-learning than we could quite manage in the time available. However collisions were relatively few and relatively minor, although the owner did later discover what might have been a chunk of loco at the trackside. No-one so far has owned up to any loss, possibly as to do so might indicate a lower standard of driving skill than they would wish to be known for.
About a dozen turned up and spent a pleasant afternoon driving live steamers and battery diesels around a complex circuit which required just a little more route-learning than we could quite manage in the time available. However collisions were relatively few and relatively minor, although the owner did later discover what might have been a chunk of loco at the trackside. No-one so far has owned up to any loss, possibly as to do so might indicate a lower standard of driving skill than they would wish to be known for.
The chairman has resigned, long live the chairman
Saturday 14 April 2012
Last night's AGM in the Bowling Club's meeting room was unusual in at least two respects, firstly we had a change in the committee, and secondly the evening included a guest speaker. The change involved Chairman Peter stepping down to spend more time with his new railway, allowing Chairman Frank to be elected unopposed and without even having to issue a manifesto, let alone canvas support from the electorate. The finances were in a surprisingly healthy state, as a result of a good exhibition and regular fund-raising throughout the year. The absence of the treasurer may have caused a few to wonder if he was otherwise engaged in spending the accumulated largesse in the Bahamas, but we were assured that he was still in the country and still having to work for a living.
Otherwise the business was uneventful and relatively swiftly concluded, allowing us to partake of Terry's hand-made crisps and sandwiches and of the adjacent bar, before reforming again in an orderly fashion for the talk by John Pavitt. John is an Australian with a life-long interest in UK modelling, in particular the Somerset and Dorset, and gave an interesting account of the development of a large and detailed layout of the S&D for the Australian exhibition circuit. A feature of the speaker's modelling career included the wisdom of marrying a wife with similar interests and no little modelling ability. The layout was therefore a distinctly family affair, with sons contributing also in due time.
Otherwise the business was uneventful and relatively swiftly concluded, allowing us to partake of Terry's hand-made crisps and sandwiches and of the adjacent bar, before reforming again in an orderly fashion for the talk by John Pavitt. John is an Australian with a life-long interest in UK modelling, in particular the Somerset and Dorset, and gave an interesting account of the development of a large and detailed layout of the S&D for the Australian exhibition circuit. A feature of the speaker's modelling career included the wisdom of marrying a wife with similar interests and no little modelling ability. The layout was therefore a distinctly family affair, with sons contributing also in due time.
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Spending in large-scale
Friday 06 April 2012
Model railway shows come and go, but just occasionally a big one makes an impact, and not just on the wallet. Last weekend five members ventured to the Peterborough show ground for the annual jamboree of the 16mm Association. This is a biggy in more senses than one, with lots of traders, a respectable number of indoor garden railway layouts, talks, demonstrations and a real 12-inch-to-the-foot scale Penrhyn locomotive to admire. The total damage after we emerged blinking into the sunlight at the end of the day was well into four figures, with a certain doctor spending the bulk of that on one railcar. Note that for insurance purposes the model cannot be taken out of its bank vault without the close attendance of the British Transport Police SWAT team.
On the way back we diverted via the UK's longest railway viaduct at Welland for a quick photo opportunity, before returning to Richard and Marilyn's cottage bolthole in picturesque Braunston for rest and recuperation.
Next day we treated ourselves to a trip on the Great Central Railway, where with impeccable timing they laid on a 1960s steam gala, complete with seven steam locos, a DMU, a garden railway and a real-ale beer tent, complete with live music. The sun shone, the band played and all was well in the world, although the forthcoming credit card bills may bring us back to earth for a rather hard landing.
Some photos are here.
On the way back we diverted via the UK's longest railway viaduct at Welland for a quick photo opportunity, before returning to Richard and Marilyn's cottage bolthole in picturesque Braunston for rest and recuperation.
Next day we treated ourselves to a trip on the Great Central Railway, where with impeccable timing they laid on a 1960s steam gala, complete with seven steam locos, a DMU, a garden railway and a real-ale beer tent, complete with live music. The sun shone, the band played and all was well in the world, although the forthcoming credit card bills may bring us back to earth for a rather hard landing.
Some photos are here.
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Back to school again
Wednesday 14 March 2012
As Allan had barely started on his list of exam questions when the invigilator called time on his first talk, a re-sit was almost inevitable. And so it was last night that Allan embarked on Part 2, after Hilary had been invited to make a guest appearance in Tony's kitchen (and while she was there cook two courses for fourteen hungry members).
As before we were given insights into economy of wiring in a variety of situations, including return loops, controllers and point motors. The GPO background was a clear influence, although how he ever managed to attach wires to tortoises without attracting the attention of the RSPCA, was beyond at least this attendee.
Allan had his audience in the palm of his hand, freshly washed for the occasion, with Liverpool's 3-0 drubbing of Everton only a minor distraction. The list of subjects to address is still lengthy, so Part 3 is high likely.
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Eighty years young
Sunday 04 March 2012
If it's a birthday with a big number attached, it's worth celebrating twice, at least. And Joe did just that, with a modest event at the clubrooms on Friday followed by a larger affair at the Gild Hall Formby on Saturday. One of Joe's predilections was well catered for, and rumours of a Deltic or two were circulated as a strategic smokescreen.
And seeing Joe bopping the night away in the bosom of his family made one hope that we might all be so lucky come the day of our own big eight zero.
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That was India - for now
Friday 02 March 2012
A year nearly to the day since India was taken over by SMRS, and the Chairman felt his emotions were sufficiently under control to risk telling non-travellers what it was really like. A dozen members attended the deputy chairman's residence last Tuesday to partake of stew prepared by the chairman's wife in a brief lull between packing for the move north to take over the Ratty. Apparently the number of boxes full of such essentials as railway DVDs, railway magazines and railway models rendered the change of venue necessary, in only for the sanity of said chairman's wife.
The quality of both sustenance and talk was up to the usual high standard, with the latter provoking a strong sense of wanting to return amongst those who had attended the first time. The fact that the chairman labelled the slide show as merely Part One of a continuing saga, suggest he was not immune from such thoughts either.
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Southport goes Caledonian
Sunday 26 February 2012
It's not often that SMRS moves in such wholesale numbers, but for the second time in a week a full posse headed out from Southport, this time to ModelRail Scotland in Glasgow. Three were working for their living, with Terry and Peter exhibiting Terry's layout Jacksonville Yard, while Allan and fellow-members of Eastbank MRC showed off their layout Andersonville. To show solidarity no less than six supporters travelled north by bus and train, with only a brief interlude at Preston for second breakfast.
The show itself contained some impressive layouts and more traders than even a well-stuffed wallet could satisfy. Two layouts were deemed to be of a sufficient standard to receive the ultimate award, an invitation to the SMRS exhibition for 2013.
ModelRail is a large exhibition, and careful preparation was required to ensure a successful visit. The key elements were food and drink, prepared in some abundance by Hilary and enjoyed on both outward and return journeys, and at lunchtime. The latter event made full use of the exhibition's catering area, much to the surprise and no doubt envy, of adjacent patrons. However the workers were not forgotten, and a tin of highly-prized gourmet food was delivered by special courier.
The excitement took its toll however, and the journey home could easily have been mistaken for a sleeper service.
A review of the event by Terry Tasker is in the March 2012 edition of the newsletter.
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Rails at Burscough
Saturday 18 February 2012
It is rare that a new exhibition venue is created, but today was a novel experience for the citizens of Burscough, a combined model railway and tramway exhibition, no less. Organised by Tony, that veteran of many a long SMRS show, on behalf of the Liverpool branch of the Tramway and Light Railway Society.
With such a pedigree, its success was all but assured before the start, and it was not long into the day that it was clear that objectives were being achieved and mission statements were being vindicated. The venue was unusual (think Liverpool's Albert Dock in a more bijou and diminutive size) as was the selection of exhibits (trams and small-scale trains, no traders). The public came in encouragingly large numbers, including no less than ten SMRS members, many of whom paid for their admission. Even the sun shone fitfully on the wind-ruffled waters of the Leeds and Liverpool canal, in-between hail showers.
It was also one of the chairman's last public engagements, before applying for the office of Steward of the Chiltern Hundreds, to facilitate taking on a proper job at the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway.
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Advancing on the Italians
Tuesday 14 February 2012
It may come as a surprise to many to learn that there is a UK-based Italian Railways Society, with membership well into three figures. Two of their members are also SMRS stalwarts, and recently Jim and Allan braved winter snows and Virgin Pendolinos to attend an IRS function at Keen House, London, home of the, sorry THE Model Railway Club.
A good time was had by both parties, with chianti on the evening menu to fortify themselves against the weather and/or train delays.
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So good, we did it twice
Sunday 29 January 2012
Twice in two months, that is. So impressed were we of our efforts in November, five of us returned to Ravenglass for more trackwork at a time when the Cumbrian winter should have been at its coldest and most unrelenting. We therefore prepared carefully, with ample supplies of warm clothing, alcohol and haggis, and accommodation in the railway's hostel, which had the benefit of central heating. By taking the precaution of becoming members, the rate was reduced to a mere £5 per night, or an even more mere £3 for the unwaged retirees amongst us. The bunk beds were still a challenge however.
Apart from a brisk wind the weather was relatively clement, and good progress was made with securing new track to new sleepers, and bedding them in with new ballast. This time no sheep were harmed in the making of new permanent way, although a life-expired specimen was spotted in a line-side field, complete with attendant buzzard.
Apart from a brisk wind the weather was relatively clement, and good progress was made with securing new track to new sleepers, and bedding them in with new ballast. This time no sheep were harmed in the making of new permanent way, although a life-expired specimen was spotted in a line-side field, complete with attendant buzzard.
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Corris, cobblers and custard
Wednesday 18 January 2012
To let you understand, as they say north of the (Scottish) border, two-thirds of the title refers to elements of the excellent cuisine on offer at the monthly talk, and the reminder to the subject of said talk. The Corris railway has been a favourite of mine since I first visited it four years ago with fellow members of SMRS, and it was inevitable that sooner or later I would lecture the club on its finer points, of which there are many. This does not include some fairly unpronounceable Welsh place-names.
Wisely the chairman decided to get this particular presentation out of the way quickly at the beginning of the year, notwithstanding that this required the presenter to prepare two talks in quick succession. However at least he won a raffle prize second time round.
Wisely the chairman decided to get this particular presentation out of the way quickly at the beginning of the year, notwithstanding that this required the presenter to prepare two talks in quick succession. However at least he won a raffle prize second time round.
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An old exhibition manager fades away
Thursday 29 December 2011
One of our longer-serving members was laid to rest today. Norman was building the club's N-gauge layout 'Dulverton' when I joined the club 25 years ago. He made me welcome and I stayed, although both of us went gradually upmarket in scale, me by choice and he by necessity as eyesight problems developed.
Norman took over the exhibition manager role at a critical time when the then chairman/exhibition manager left, and laid the foundations for a show which has gone from strength to strength. Latterly he found the Southport Model Engineers more met his needs, but he was a regular visitor both to our exhibition and to Jim's barbecues.
An obituary by Jim Ford is in the February 2012 edition of the newsletter.
We must also record with regret the recent loss of Stewart Mason, one-time member of the club and retired Merseyrail traction inspector.
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A carry on at Christmas
Wednesday 21 December 2011
Yuletide again already, and a modest celebration of the event is held at the clubrooms. For the first time ever this included freshly-prepared bacon sandwiches in addition to the usual crisps, peanuts and mince pies, evidence that the country may be going to the financial dogs but SMRS is still capable of defying the odds and having a good time. The chairman gave a speech in appropriate Churchillian tones, with a touch of Mr Grace from 'Are You Being Served?' thrown in for good measure.
And Joe celebrated not only with winning two of the three raffle prizes but also with a kiss from Mother Christmas. Which he enjoyed the most is not recorded, this being a respectable website.
Finally one must record an example of technical innovation for which the club is nearly famous, namely the illumination of the approved route to the external facilities, by a combination of a white line marking the edge of the path and a new lamp to show it up in all its reflected glory.
* * * * * * *
Sleeping around Scotland
Tuesday 13 December 2011
'Twas a dark and stormy night, and a dozen members braved the elements to hear Derek the Elder present a talk on the last 17 years of sleeper trips. I suspect Heather's cooking was at least an equal draw, but whatever the reasons a good time was had by all, a mixture of reminiscing by those who had been on a trip and wondering what all the fuss was about by those who had not. Probably the most interesting aspect was the statistics:18,500 miles covered, 22 rail routes, 11 ferries and 11 islands, to name only some.
* * * * * * *
A fistful of shovels
Saturday 26 November 2011
November brings not only fogs and gales but also the annual Ravenglass track week, notwithstanding the fact that it lasts a fortnight. As before, a select band of SMRS members volunteered their services to shovel ballast, hump sleepers and do anything else, within reason, required of us by the railway authorities. A novel factor this year was the choice of sleeping quarters, namely 'Elmira' one of two Pullman sleeping cars kept at Ravenglass station. Built nearly a century ago its history included a period serving as an ambulance car in the First World War.
One unfortunate incident occurred on day two of our excursion, when a number of sheep got onto the line and fell foul of a fleet of ballast wagons being propelled towards the worksite. The casualty list was one sheep immediately dispatched to the Great Shepherd in the Sky, and one severely shocked by premature burial in half a ton of quarry bottoms. The latter animal was last seen making good its escape from the scene of the incident, no doubt to consult its lawyer at the earliest opportunity. Two wagons were upended and suffered damage to both woodwork and running gear, testament to the hardy nature of Cumbrian fell sheep.
A happier incident was the presentation to Dr Ford of a memento to mark the start of his passage towards at least partial retirement. This took the form of a sign pointing to the leisure activity of choice for the discerning consultant. The contributors were those who have the most cause to be grateful for his open-house policy regarding sleeping accommodation at his Porthmadog flat.
One unfortunate incident occurred on day two of our excursion, when a number of sheep got onto the line and fell foul of a fleet of ballast wagons being propelled towards the worksite. The casualty list was one sheep immediately dispatched to the Great Shepherd in the Sky, and one severely shocked by premature burial in half a ton of quarry bottoms. The latter animal was last seen making good its escape from the scene of the incident, no doubt to consult its lawyer at the earliest opportunity. Two wagons were upended and suffered damage to both woodwork and running gear, testament to the hardy nature of Cumbrian fell sheep.
A happier incident was the presentation to Dr Ford of a memento to mark the start of his passage towards at least partial retirement. This took the form of a sign pointing to the leisure activity of choice for the discerning consultant. The contributors were those who have the most cause to be grateful for his open-house policy regarding sleeping accommodation at his Porthmadog flat.
* * * * * * *
Wiring (almost) without wires
Tuesday 15 November 2011
Another month, another meal (shepherd's pie and apple pie, separate plates, if you were wondering) and another talk. This time Allan made a late substitution to speak on Electric layout control - how to Maximise the Fun. And it was not just the title that was unconventional, the form of presentation eschewed modern technology and reverted to old-fashioned chalk-and-talk, complete with school easel. A minor sop to modernity was the use of a whiteboard, sorry neutrally-coloured rewritable display surface, and assorted pens in primary colours.
In quick succession the intricacies of reverse loops, live-frog points and capacitor discharge systems were reduced to a simple matter of an extra wire here and a couple of line breaks there. One surprising fact we learned was that DCC may not always mean fewer wires and simpler connections, whatever its apologists might claim.
Such was the popularity of the subject that the hosts eventually felt compelled to remind the company that they had an early start in the morning and would we please stop talking and go home. School was never like this.
In quick succession the intricacies of reverse loops, live-frog points and capacitor discharge systems were reduced to a simple matter of an extra wire here and a couple of line breaks there. One surprising fact we learned was that DCC may not always mean fewer wires and simpler connections, whatever its apologists might claim.
Such was the popularity of the subject that the hosts eventually felt compelled to remind the company that they had an early start in the morning and would we please stop talking and go home. School was never like this.
* * * * * * *
Why go Italian?
Wednesday 19 October 2011
The first question James posed at the monthly presentation meeting was 'Why model Italian railways?' Apparently his aunt was to blame, by taking two young and innocent teenage nephews on a holiday to Italy. 35 years later, he stood up to tell us about progress so far. It was a true multimedia presentation, with photos, books and models all combining to relate the story of Italian steam, which finished with new builds in the 1920's but was still going 60 years later.
For the first time the meeting was held at Ian and Heather's, where a combination of congenial surroundings and good cuisine may well prompt calls for revisits. Comfy chairs, too.
* * * * * * *
Reforestation, one tree at a time
Wednesday 19 October 2011
An impromptu tutorial session at the club on Friday, with Ian giving a demonstration of a quick and easy method for making trees, This involved twisted wire, short lengths of sisal, spray-on glue and the scenic scatter of your choice. Such was the success of the demo that he was promptly offered the contract for 130+ trees for Talisker Glen. Regrettably he declined the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, with the chairman suggesting instead a communal tree-making session or two, for as many as could be accommodated, or who wished to be volunteered.
* * * * * * *
Exhibition time again
Friday 14 October 2011
Well that was the exhibition that was, and a mighty fine one it was too. The organisation at the new venue seems to have settled down nicely, with everyone knowing what needed to be done, and for a change actually doing it without being asked. There were no significant problems during the event, which speaks volumes for the Hon. Exhibition Manager's planning, which started a good eighteen months ago and continued to at least the Sunday afternoon.
The attendance was slightly down, but expenses were too, and the efforts of John and Hilary at the members' sales stall resulted in a record amount being raised over the two days, contributing to a healthy positive equity situation. Good things were said about the quality of the exhibits and of the treasurer's bacon rolls.
Good party, too.
The attendance was slightly down, but expenses were too, and the efforts of John and Hilary at the members' sales stall resulted in a record amount being raised over the two days, contributing to a healthy positive equity situation. Good things were said about the quality of the exhibits and of the treasurer's bacon rolls.
Good party, too.
* * * * * * *
Another man down
Friday 14 October 2011
It is sometimes said that railway modelling is a pensioner's hobby, and recently we were reminded of this rather more forcefully than we would like, with the news that Ron Jones has passed away.
Ron was a long-standing member of SMRS, even though he lived in Orrell, well within the catchment area of the Wigan club. Quite what it was that made him prefer Southport I do not know, but whatever it was we are grateful for it.
RIP.
* * * * * * *
A slippery slope in Somerset
Monday 19 September 2011
This month's social featured not only bangers and mash but also a talk on a little-known feature of Somerset's old railways, namely the Comberrow Incline, built to help transport iron ore to Watchet harbour. The line's heyday was the late 1800's, but thereafter it declined steadily, until in 1917 it suffered the indignity of being commandeered wholesale for the war effort. True to its calling the Ministry of Munitions took no prisoners, and blew up the engine house. This was allegedly done to make removal of its contents easier, but possibly also to ensure that no enemy invader could enjoy the spoils of war and smelt Somersetshire's iron without having to work really quite hard for it.
The incline was an impressive, and expensive, engineering feat, using rope winches to haul not only goods but also passengers, the latter no doubt fully insured against unwittingly becoming part of a high-speed gravity train at very short notice. Sadly little remains of it now, although the shell of the engine house has been restored. But as Ian, the presenter, said it would make a good model, although achieving the correct vertical dimension in anything bigger than 2mm scale could be a challenge.
The incline was an impressive, and expensive, engineering feat, using rope winches to haul not only goods but also passengers, the latter no doubt fully insured against unwittingly becoming part of a high-speed gravity train at very short notice. Sadly little remains of it now, although the shell of the engine house has been restored. But as Ian, the presenter, said it would make a good model, although achieving the correct vertical dimension in anything bigger than 2mm scale could be a challenge.
* * * * * * *
Welsh railway gardening
Wednesday 07 September 2011
If you have a garden, you need a garden railway, it's as simple as that. Increasingly SMRS members are realising the profound truth of this statement, so it took little persuasion for a group to be assembled for a trip to the annual garden railway show at Llanfair Caereinion. Its proximity to the Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway was an added attraction, particularly as the railway had a gala on the same weekend.
The show was its usual tempting self, although apparently a little less well patronised than in previous years, perhaps reflecting the current economic climate. The gala likewise lived up to its billing, and tried hard to replicate last year's special event, namely a complete engine failure whilst carrying one of our members homewards. This time another member managed both to miss the return train and to jinx the next one to the extent that Richard had to be despatched to Welshpool in his AA Rescue MX5 to recover the deputy chairman, who wishes to remain anonymous. The speed with which they returned suggested some pleasure might have been taken with a few B-road bends, but nothing was admitted.
The use of Jim's flat in Porthmadog meant we just had to go on another railway on the Sunday, this time the Welsh Highland. The weather was decent enough for the open coach to be well patronised, and the decision to alight at Waunfawr rather than Caernafon meant real ale and beef baguettes could be consumed at leisure and in comfort before the return journey.
* * * * * * *
Awayday to the metropolis
Monday 22 August 2011
The Big City (i.e. Liverpool) is not a place we visit often, but last Saturday a group of four ventured to the metropolis at the invitation of the Lancashire area group of the Association of 16mm Narrow Gauge Modellers, to quote the long title. With three garden railways already in existence in the club, and a fourth seeking detailed planning permission, there is always interest in seeing how others do it. Also the length of run at Bob Bilsbarrow's excellent 45mm line allows visiting live steam locos to show off their paces without fear of suddenly running out of trackway. A certain care is needed when running multiple trains on the single-track-with-passing-places line to avoid traffic management incidents, but this merely adds to an already strong sense of realism.
An excellent afternoon, with hospitable hosts and a modest but friendly crowd. The rain was early but minimal and Liverpool won a famous victory away to Arsenal, so all was well.
Everton lost at home, so forewarned we returned to Southport another way.
An excellent afternoon, with hospitable hosts and a modest but friendly crowd. The rain was early but minimal and Liverpool won a famous victory away to Arsenal, so all was well.
Everton lost at home, so forewarned we returned to Southport another way.
* * * * * * *
Scottish Skye lines
Thursday 18 August 2011
Having observed the format on several occasions from the safe obscurity of the cheap seats, the chairman finally decided it was safe to venture to the front stalls and put on a show himself. And so last Tuesday saw a presentation on the Skye and Dingwall Railway, preceded by cottage pie served by the presenter himself, the chef having been called away on an errand of mercy, no doubt with a cheery cry of 'your dinner for fourteen's in the oven'.
Fortunately the chairman has not got where he is today (wherever that may be) without the ability to multi-task. The fact that, like most of the male gender, the problem was resolved by serial, rather than parallel, job sequencing, mattered not. Both were well-prepared, presented with a flourish, and consumed with appreciation. Enough flattery, the AGM isn't due for months.
I won't trouble you with the name of the raffle winner - you know him so well.
* * * * * * *
Trains, planes and strawberries
Sunday 24 July 2011
Jim and Fiona's barbecues are events to be savoured - generous hosts, real ale, live steam railways and, this year at least, warm weather and the Red Arrows. Admittedly these last two were a bonus rather than main menu items, but nonetheless welcome for that. It was good of Sefton council to organise the Southport Air Show on the same day, as it meant that the forty or so guests had not only steam trains to enjoy but also vintage flying machines, that included a Spitfire, a Lancaster and a Vulcan, plus nine Hawk trainers flying at high speed closer together than any sensible risk assessment should permit. Regrettably the surrounding foliage restricted the view a little, such that one member was heard to remark that the one item of essential equipment that an aircraft photographer should always have about their person is a chainsaw.
Within the garden curtilage however there was much to keep us occupied. Two tracks are now in operation, although the Cripple Creek elevated 45mm line is still incomplete, with the owner and chief engineer still to get his work/life balance optimally adjusted (i.e. work 0%, life 100%). Both lines worked well however, and a succession of trains in both gauges ran all afternoon. The odd tram also, courtesy of Liverpool Tramway Society members.
Within the garden curtilage however there was much to keep us occupied. Two tracks are now in operation, although the Cripple Creek elevated 45mm line is still incomplete, with the owner and chief engineer still to get his work/life balance optimally adjusted (i.e. work 0%, life 100%). Both lines worked well however, and a succession of trains in both gauges ran all afternoon. The odd tram also, courtesy of Liverpool Tramway Society members.
* * * * * * *
The tree of life is dead, long live the stump
Sunday 17 July 2011
'Life is but a trifle, and not everyone gets the custard'. Such might have been the words penned by one of England's second rank of poets to describe the scene this weekend as our sycamore finally tasted the sour grapes of the tree doctor's chainsaw. Our neighbour's patience had at last run out, and a few brief but well-chosen words to a passing, and perfectly innocent, Network Rail supervisor finally brought timely action.
The intention had been to use a rail-mounted tree-removing machine to extract the offending flora virtually in one go, but this gargantuan device was apparently needed elsewhere on the day, so the more mundane option of tree surgeon contractors was selected. To those not used to such operations the method of work was a little alarming, involving someone shinning 30ft up the tree, tying off with a rope, tying a selected branch with a second rope held securely via a pulley system and a deadweight (a well-built assistant), and using a chainsaw attached by a third rope to cut through the correct, tied, branch downstream of the second rope, such that it (the branch) swung away from the tied-off person, did not fall on the track (periodically occupied by a Merseyrail service) and could be safely lowered to the ground by said assistant.
However it was clear that those involved knew the ropes, and moreover could count to three without once getting confused as to which rope was which, and which branch should not be sawn through because it was home to the tied end of the first rope instead of the second. In all it took three days, with barely a tea-break and only brief luncheon intervals. So Network Rail got value for whatever sum they paid out, the neighbour got her drains back into her sole possession, and we will get more light and fewer leaves in the garden, despite having no right in our lease to even step out of the back door.
A rare win-win-win situation, except for the tree of course. Knowing sycamores however, a dollop of blue gunge may not be enough to keep the root subdued, and green shoots of recovery will have to be watched for come next spring. And as for dark storm-tossed winter nights, who knows if the moaning of the wind will be real, or the ghost of the tree come back to haunt us....
* * * * * * *
Specialist subject: Every steam engine since the Rocket
Sunday 17 July 2011
Last Tuesday saw our monthly Eat, Drink, Show, Tell & Drink evening, this time featuring a beef stew and a presentation by John on LMS CME William Stanier and his locomotives, in that order. But it could have been about virtually any other aspect of the UK historical steam scene, such is our member's breadth and depth of knowledge.
The black and white photos added an authentic period touch, and provoked discussion on the finer technical details which the rest of us could only marvel at. And the forbidden words 'Flying Scotsman' were hardly mentioned, a mere half-dozen times at most.
In other areas John's luck is beginning to run out. He only won third prize in the raffle this time.
The black and white photos added an authentic period touch, and provoked discussion on the finer technical details which the rest of us could only marvel at. And the forbidden words 'Flying Scotsman' were hardly mentioned, a mere half-dozen times at most.
In other areas John's luck is beginning to run out. He only won third prize in the raffle this time.
* * * * * * *
The 17th sleeper, under new management
Sunday 17 July 2011
The summer solstice saw a half-dozen SMRS members, whittled down by natural selection from an original nine contestants, depart on the annual sleeper trip.
This was Frank's first assignment as planning executive, and to ensure a false sense of security was not engendered, the itinerary set by the rest of the group was a particularly testing one.
It was also unique, so far at least, by including not one but two nights in a sleeping car, the first moving (albeit slower than intended) and the second stationary.
This was Frank's first assignment as planning executive, and to ensure a false sense of security was not engendered, the itinerary set by the rest of the group was a particularly testing one.
It was also unique, so far at least, by including not one but two nights in a sleeping car, the first moving (albeit slower than intended) and the second stationary.
* * * * * * *
The latest in our series A Night to Remember.....
Tuesday 07 June 2011
Memorable for a number of reasons, John winning the raffle again, a demonstration that old plastic, as well as old bones, can be susceptible to sudden brittle fracture, and an excellent buffet put on by the Chairman's significantly better half. When all had more-or-less settled down, Allan gave us an illustrated talk on the delights of 1985-vintage trains in Italy, when most of the stock seemed to be 50 years old and little the worse for it. His priorities were clear right from the outset: the maximum of interesting trains in diverse locations, the minimum of touristy culture, and absolutely no biological infestations*.
A number of lessons could be drawn from the presentation: State-owned railways have a lot going for them, particularly when run by (or at least for) a dictator, small stations need big buildings, the original Pendolino design was a lot better than the re-make, and all water towers must be preserved for when we run out of oil and the strategic steam reserve needs to be activated. And don't sit on garden furniture indoors.
*Late 20th Cent. Glaswegian, trans. 'random bodies cluttering up the photo'.
* * * * * * *
A double dose of steam
Saturday 04 June 2011
As the summer solstice approaches, the need for steam becomes unstoppable, so much so that no less than four live steam locos were fired up at the clubhouse last night. What made it unique was that two were of the 00 persuasion, using the magic technology developed (or at least marketed) by Messrs Hornby. So while Jim and George laboured to generate heat and light on Talisker Glen's trackbed upstairs, Richard and Derek did similar things out in the garden, specially manicured (and lit) for the event by Tony.
The 00 locos were clearly something special, and not only because of the jumbo-sized transformer and the white gloves worn by the operator. After some patient tinkering and adjusting, a number of traverses of the circular track were achieved, probably a world first for SMRS. Sorry about the shirt.
Meanwhile much bigger machines were being exercised outside, demonstrating amongst other things that manual control also provides exercise for the operator in ensuring that loco and track stay in contact with each other for more or less the whole time. A warm evening and warm beer completed the festivities.
The 00 locos were clearly something special, and not only because of the jumbo-sized transformer and the white gloves worn by the operator. After some patient tinkering and adjusting, a number of traverses of the circular track were achieved, probably a world first for SMRS. Sorry about the shirt.
Meanwhile much bigger machines were being exercised outside, demonstrating amongst other things that manual control also provides exercise for the operator in ensuring that loco and track stay in contact with each other for more or less the whole time. A warm evening and warm beer completed the festivities.
* * * * * * *
So good, we do it every year
Tuesday 10 May 2011
AGM time again, and this time we do it in style. The commodious venue of the Hall St cafe, complete with buffet, and a cabaret to follow, in the form of a slideshow by our very own award-winning photographer.
This time the gang of four looked relaxed and confident, as if they knew that the recent tinkering with the constitution had put them in an unassailable position, election-wise. The fact that no-one dared oppose them spoke volumes. However perhaps they have over-reached themselves a little, by allowing the election of an ordinary member, not part of the ruling junta, as a sop to democracy. The electee, as it happens, is a retired lecturer in law, already making his presence felt with a number of points of order. Watch this space...
After the formalities, the buffet was attacked with determination and vigour, and a certain member won the raffle for the third time in four attempts. Statistically, he should now be out of the running until about mid-2015.
The highlight of the evening was Robert's series of presentations, one of the East Lancs Railway, one of the Rufford canal basin, and one of the Crich tram museum. The quality was consistently high, and it was easy to see how some photos had caught the eye of local photographic club judges. Even more impressive was the way it motivated him to get up before dawn to catch the light.
This time the gang of four looked relaxed and confident, as if they knew that the recent tinkering with the constitution had put them in an unassailable position, election-wise. The fact that no-one dared oppose them spoke volumes. However perhaps they have over-reached themselves a little, by allowing the election of an ordinary member, not part of the ruling junta, as a sop to democracy. The electee, as it happens, is a retired lecturer in law, already making his presence felt with a number of points of order. Watch this space...
After the formalities, the buffet was attacked with determination and vigour, and a certain member won the raffle for the third time in four attempts. Statistically, he should now be out of the running until about mid-2015.
The highlight of the evening was Robert's series of presentations, one of the East Lancs Railway, one of the Rufford canal basin, and one of the Crich tram museum. The quality was consistently high, and it was easy to see how some photos had caught the eye of local photographic club judges. Even more impressive was the way it motivated him to get up before dawn to catch the light.
* * * * * * *
Out in force at West Lancs
Sunday 08 May 2011
The West Lancs Teddy Bears day is firmly established in the SMRS calendar, and not just because one travels half-fare if one brings one's teddy bear. This time one member was given leave to fire Irish Mail whilst four others were deployed to run a variety of layouts in the engine shed. This included the in-house live steam layout Hundred End, aided by two members of the local 16mm Association group.
A first for the event was the display of the newly-extended version of the SMRS modular layout, boasting not only extra modules but also corner pieces to permit operation in a U-shape. It had mixed success, which is PR code for it didn't really work. Apart from the irregular height of the tables, there was sufficient variation in the horizontal alignment to make the rail joins too uneven for reliable running. A possible solution is to remove the locating dowels and clamp the boards once permanently aligned in a fixed order.
A first for the event was the display of the newly-extended version of the SMRS modular layout, boasting not only extra modules but also corner pieces to permit operation in a U-shape. It had mixed success, which is PR code for it didn't really work. Apart from the irregular height of the tables, there was sufficient variation in the horizontal alignment to make the rail joins too uneven for reliable running. A possible solution is to remove the locating dowels and clamp the boards once permanently aligned in a fixed order.
* * * * * * *
Taking a constitutional at an EGM
Sunday 08 May 2011
Two nights ago saw the rarest of events at the clubhouse - a well-attended EGM. The occasion was the revision of the constitution, which was considered to have fallen behind the times in several crucial areas, and in need of a re-vamp.
In accordance with best civil service traditions a sub-committee had been set up to make recommendations on updates, which were then put to the club for their approval. After some discussion on the best way of ejecting trouble-makers from the club in a fair and equitable manner, the draft was passed unanimously. We can now sleep comfortably in our beds, at least until the AGM next Tuesday, when a whole new committee get unleashed on the club.
In accordance with best civil service traditions a sub-committee had been set up to make recommendations on updates, which were then put to the club for their approval. After some discussion on the best way of ejecting trouble-makers from the club in a fair and equitable manner, the draft was passed unanimously. We can now sleep comfortably in our beds, at least until the AGM next Tuesday, when a whole new committee get unleashed on the club.
* * * * * * *
Eat, drink and be entertained
Wednesday 20 April 2011
It seems that life is one long social event these days, with another lunch club meeting at Hall St cafe - notice the hand creeping slowly towards the wine bottle when the attention of other members is diverted elsewhere. The occasion this time was a talk by Tony explaining the nature of the footplate disease which has held him in an iron grip for many a long year, since Steamport days to be precise. It covered the early years, from when Stephenson was barely in his grave, to (almost) modern times, with a promise of Part 2 next year if we don't behave.
* * * * * * *
Steaming through the deep South
Tuesday 15 February 2011
Another curry, another slide show. This time yours truly lectured a captive audience on a trip taken last year to four countries in Southern Africa. The membership collectively failed the geography test at the beginning, and so had to sit through all 150 photos and a ten-minute video, with no time off for good behaviour.
Fortunately the subject matter spoke for itself, and no railway modeller worthy of the name could fail to be captivated by the sight of a freight train storming through the veldt, doubleheaded by twin Garretts emitting more black smoke than the Queen Mary at full ahead both. One such modeller raised the theoretical possibility of modelling such a consist, only to realise just how many wheelsets would have to be strung together, and on more bogies than entries in a Humphrey Bogart lookalike competition. Even a double Fairlie would seem simple by comparison.
* * * * * * *
Ageing gently, like a good Scotch should
Friday 11 February 2011
The age profile of SMRS edges forever upwards, and tonight we marked Allan's accession to the over-sixties branch of the club. He seems destined to spend a significant part of his new-found membership complaining of blatant discrimination by West Lancashire council, who for reasons of economy have declined to issue him with a bus pass (being not held up in the adjacent photo). What makes it more irksome is that Allan's domicile is within easy walking distance of the boundary with Sefton council, who have blessed the rest of us oldies with passes which are valid for buses, trains, and (no doubt if we had any) trams as well*.
However we did our best to console him by consuming the food and drink he generously provided, and by a presentation of (a) one (1) deluxe picture-hanging set, complete with spirit level, and (b) a set of six (6) pencil sketches of scenes of Southport's Lord St, hanging set for the use of. Favourable comments were passed not only on their quality but also on the fact that they contained no visible traffic wardens.
*No, the blue plastic abomination stuck out on the end of the pier definitely does not count as a tram.
* * * * * * *
Burns Night for real this time
Tuesday 25 January 2011
Following on from the practice run in September, the real Burns night in January. A limited edition of twelve celebrants were admitted to the proceedings, which included not only piping in the haggis (courtesy of a very small and very tinny set of plastic bagpipes), but also recitations, graces and prayers in the customary manner. Some of the accents were more mid-Lancastrian than Midlothian, but the spirit was entered into in full measure. And Tony as usual did us proud in the culinary department.
After the traditional fare one half of the attendance went into closed session to discuss the 2011 sleeper trip, planning of which is at a critical stage. This means we have generated more than enough options to thoroughly confuse all concerned, and there is an urgent need to apply a little rational realism, mainly by interpretation of the appropriate timetables. The fact that they are for the winter solstice rather than the summer, and will remain so until long past the point of no return planning-wise, only adds to the confusion.
Fortunately the application of a decent port, and the odd malt or two, soon sorted it all out. What is a little worrying is that no less than nine (9) members wish to go this year. Pity the poor organiser - should we perhaps auction off places to the highest bidders? We could do with the extra funds...
After the traditional fare one half of the attendance went into closed session to discuss the 2011 sleeper trip, planning of which is at a critical stage. This means we have generated more than enough options to thoroughly confuse all concerned, and there is an urgent need to apply a little rational realism, mainly by interpretation of the appropriate timetables. The fact that they are for the winter solstice rather than the summer, and will remain so until long past the point of no return planning-wise, only adds to the confusion.
Fortunately the application of a decent port, and the odd malt or two, soon sorted it all out. What is a little worrying is that no less than nine (9) members wish to go this year. Pity the poor organiser - should we perhaps auction off places to the highest bidders? We could do with the extra funds...
* * * * * * *
Peak line presentation
Wednesday 12 January 2011
The events come thick and fast this time of year - the London Season has nothing on SMRS. This time it was Ian, educating and entertaining us with a trip along the Peak Line from Ambergate to Chinley, with the help of mainly black-and-white photos of some vintage.
The first myth dispelled was that the name has nothing to do with the size of the hills. It refers to the Pecsaetan Anglo-Saxon tribe who inhabited the area a thousand years or more ago, but who unaccountably failed to get around to building a railway, leaving that task to the Victorians.
A hot-pot meal was provided and the entertainment included a somewhat loosely-organised raffle, won by the same person who was victorious in the Christmas party draw. At least this time it wasn't another bottle of something he didn't drink.
The first myth dispelled was that the name has nothing to do with the size of the hills. It refers to the Pecsaetan Anglo-Saxon tribe who inhabited the area a thousand years or more ago, but who unaccountably failed to get around to building a railway, leaving that task to the Victorians.
A hot-pot meal was provided and the entertainment included a somewhat loosely-organised raffle, won by the same person who was victorious in the Christmas party draw. At least this time it wasn't another bottle of something he didn't drink.
* * * * * * *
Born to eat (and drink)
Wednesday 05 January 2011
Yesterday evening saw one of the highlights of our crowded festive calendar, namely Tony's steam soiree at chez his. As well as ample food and drink, a choice of choice railway videos was on offer, not to mention (yet) another pep-talk by our very own Dear Leader. This time he graciously chose to emphasise the national belt-tightening that lay ahead in 2011, and its possible effect on our local prosperity. Apparently another penny on the annual subs. was a distinct possibility.
To dispel such dark and (probably) unfounded rumours, we promptly awarded ourselves another night out next month, meal included. Spending our way out of a recession is an economic strategy we could easily get used to.
To dispel such dark and (probably) unfounded rumours, we promptly awarded ourselves another night out next month, meal included. Spending our way out of a recession is an economic strategy we could easily get used to.
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Winter draws in, and nights draw out
Tuesday 21 December 2010
Barely a year seems to have gone by and here we are celebrating Christmas again, with a party at a new venue, namely a cafe designed mainly for employees at a small town-centre industrial estate, but opened in the evening especially for us. Two of the Chairman's better halves excelled at the catering, and the Chairman himself took advantage of a captive audience not only to deliver his traditional end-of-year harangue but also to show 160-odd slides of the Docklands Light Railway. It seemed more.
The star turn, however was the weather, which seemed determined to make up for previous mild winters with a blast of ice and snow which would dent the resolve of even the most fervent global-warmist. Perhaps there is a difference between weather and climate, and one frozen robin may not make a winter of discontent, but the intent to impress was definitely there in abundance.
The star turn, however was the weather, which seemed determined to make up for previous mild winters with a blast of ice and snow which would dent the resolve of even the most fervent global-warmist. Perhaps there is a difference between weather and climate, and one frozen robin may not make a winter of discontent, but the intent to impress was definitely there in abundance.
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Toasting the Duke of Lancaster
Saturday 27 November 2010
Today, as any fule kno, is the very day of Lancashire, when in 1295 the first elected representatives from Lancashire were summoned to The Model Parliament.
SMRS members were likewise summoned by Jim and Fiona to celebrate with Lancashire hotpot, Chorley cakes, Eccles cakes and assorted local beers. This was followed by videos of local steam railways in their heyday and of our own model railway exhibition in the vintage year of 1989. The latter allowed us the doubtful privilege of spotting our younger selves preserved on film, with haircuts and clothing styles to match.
SMRS members were likewise summoned by Jim and Fiona to celebrate with Lancashire hotpot, Chorley cakes, Eccles cakes and assorted local beers. This was followed by videos of local steam railways in their heyday and of our own model railway exhibition in the vintage year of 1989. The latter allowed us the doubtful privilege of spotting our younger selves preserved on film, with haircuts and clothing styles to match.
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The Night Ferry, at night
Tuesday 16 November 2010
Another of our Tuesday night social jamborees, this time with Alan showing good old-fashioned colour slides of the Night Ferry sleeping cars that used to run from London to Paris via Dover and Dunkerque. After seeing how it used to be done, the overwhelming impression was that progress on this front has been decidedly backward since a certain female prime minister become convinced that vehicles with rubber tyres were the only way to travel. As someone said, things have come to a pretty pass when Pendolino first class offers inferior accommodation to a Mark III standard class coach...
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Old habits die hard
Tuesday 19 October 2010
Once a lecturer, always a lecturer. Richard clearly did not let his recent retirement, or the associated golden goodbye, prevent him from making a comeback at the club tonight. His theme for the evening was 'All you ever wanted to know about DCC'.
With the skill of the professional presenter he did just that, just enough, not too much. The interest generated led him to believe, for one brief, tantalising moment, that soon he might not be the only club member with a significant investment in all things digital. The reality will kick in soon enough....
With the skill of the professional presenter he did just that, just enough, not too much. The interest generated led him to believe, for one brief, tantalising moment, that soon he might not be the only club member with a significant investment in all things digital. The reality will kick in soon enough....
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Homework in progress
Wednesday 13 October 2010
It has long been the assertion of members of the SMRS Armchair Section that they are using said armchairs as an essential means of respite from frenetic modelling activities undertaken in the domestic environment. They cannot therefore be expected to burn the 4mm-to-the-foot scale candle at both ends. Evidence of said activity is generally hard to come by, as it remains locked away in a loft, cellar or back bedroom and rarely sees the light of day.
However a garden railway is by its very nature exposed to the harsh glare of an autumnal Indian summer, and one in particular in a leafy Ormskirk suburb was captured on camera by your roving webmaster. Retirement brings many benefits, the ability to work on 32mm tracklaying uninterrupted for hours on end being just one of them.
However a garden railway is by its very nature exposed to the harsh glare of an autumnal Indian summer, and one in particular in a leafy Ormskirk suburb was captured on camera by your roving webmaster. Retirement brings many benefits, the ability to work on 32mm tracklaying uninterrupted for hours on end being just one of them.
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An old model resurfaces
Sunday 10 October 2010
An old name, at least. Back in the Eighties, when even the Chairman was in short trousers, the club built an N-gauge model of a station on the Devon and Somerset Railway to exhibition standard, and exhibited it.
Dulverton has long since been sold, but its spirit lives on in the clubrooms, thanks to re-discovery of the nameboard which once adorned the front of the layout.
Regrettably, the Chairman still wears short trousers on occasion.
Dulverton has long since been sold, but its spirit lives on in the clubrooms, thanks to re-discovery of the nameboard which once adorned the front of the layout.
Regrettably, the Chairman still wears short trousers on occasion.
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Exhibitioning again
Thursday 30 September 2010
The third exhibition at Birkdale school seems to have come round surprisingly quickly. This year was characterised by a weekend of warm sunshine, which may have contributed to a slightly lower attendance. Otherwise, all went well, and a good time was had by all, including the mayor.
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Mike's model at Manchester
Wednesday 22 September 2010
The Aviation and Transport Enthusiasts' Fair (the modelling equivalent of a multi-media show) took place recently in the shadow of Concorde at Manchester airport. Our man Mike took his layout Llanwroc to represent Southport and Environs.
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Scots'R'Us at the cinema
Thursday 16 September 2010
One might be forgiven for thinking Burns Night had come four months early at Tony's last night. A distinctly Scottish theme to the latest film night, with haggis and neeps, various malts and Whisky Galore as the main feature.
Eleven members attended, tempted no doubt by the quality of the bill of fare and the hope that they might avoid the washing-up. Apparently all of Tesco, if not all of Southport, was emptied of prime haggis specimens to feed us all. Even after seconds a slight surplus remained, so doggy bags were rapidly constructed of tinfoil and clingfilm, to ensure nothing went to waste.
As can be seen, the cheap seats were well populated, whilst those who had the foresight to enter the viewing lounge promptly were careful to select the better-upholstered seating.
Eleven members attended, tempted no doubt by the quality of the bill of fare and the hope that they might avoid the washing-up. Apparently all of Tesco, if not all of Southport, was emptied of prime haggis specimens to feed us all. Even after seconds a slight surplus remained, so doggy bags were rapidly constructed of tinfoil and clingfilm, to ensure nothing went to waste.
As can be seen, the cheap seats were well populated, whilst those who had the foresight to enter the viewing lounge promptly were careful to select the better-upholstered seating.
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Action this day, or next week at any rate
Wednesday 25 August 2010
Unheard of activity at t'club last night. Just as members were settling down for a quiet snooze in front of the (unlit) fire, the Chairman summoned selected personnel to a high-level meeting, upstairs in the back room. There he revealed another element of his Master Plan. A new modelling front is to be opened, namely the re-birth of the Talisker Glen layout. Like the beverage that the model is named after, this layout has been maturing quietly in a darkened room until judged ready for release to an expectant public. The Chairman decreed that this moment has now arrived, and we are required to proceed to the next stage, which is to get our collective fingers out and actually build the thing.
So it was said, and so it will be done. New boards, a new track plan and a new(ish) team will hit the deck running, or at least jogging gently, from next week. Watch this space.
So it was said, and so it will be done. New boards, a new track plan and a new(ish) team will hit the deck running, or at least jogging gently, from next week. Watch this space.
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Running at night
Saturday 14 August 2010
In an attempt to stem the fervent tide of modelling activity at the clubrooms, which was threatening to engulf all that stands before it, the chairman has decreed that for two nights a month members must down tools, bring some models, and just relax and watch them run round a layout.
He wishes. However the running nights will take place, and we will encourage members to not only show off their hardware but also explain why they spent their hard-earned cash on particular models, and what tweaks they have made, or would make if they felt brave enough.
He wishes. However the running nights will take place, and we will encourage members to not only show off their hardware but also explain why they spent their hard-earned cash on particular models, and what tweaks they have made, or would make if they felt brave enough.
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Ealing Films flash to the fore
Thursday 12 August 2010
Last night saw the second of the current season of SMRS film nights. This time a select audience enjoyed Titfield Thunderbolt as the main feature, with video of a recent run by Duke of Gloucester around the west coast of the Lakes as the supporting film. The latter included shots of the deputy chairman wielding a shovel on the footplate, and looking for all the world as if he knew what to do with it.
As is traditional in cinemas, a considerable amount of snacking on popcorn, crisps and peanuts was undertaken, supplemented by ice creams sponsored by a member of the audience. Regrettably the latter items were dispensed not from a tray borne by a buxom young usherette but from a plain plastic bag wielded by a chairman fast approaching middle age, and not necessarily looking any the better for it. Real ale was also consumed in moderation.
The evening was enlivened by an introduction to the film by a member of sufficient vintage to have actually been present during some of the shooting, albeit as an interested passer-by rather than as a paid extra.
As is traditional in cinemas, a considerable amount of snacking on popcorn, crisps and peanuts was undertaken, supplemented by ice creams sponsored by a member of the audience. Regrettably the latter items were dispensed not from a tray borne by a buxom young usherette but from a plain plastic bag wielded by a chairman fast approaching middle age, and not necessarily looking any the better for it. Real ale was also consumed in moderation.
The evening was enlivened by an introduction to the film by a member of sufficient vintage to have actually been present during some of the shooting, albeit as an interested passer-by rather than as a paid extra.
* * * * * * *
Woodvale time again
Sunday 08 August 2010
Like Christmas, the Woodvale model aircraft rally creeps up on the unwary and propagates a sudden burst of slightly panicky activity, as SMRS tries to decide (a) shall we attend this year? (b) why should we attend this year? (c) who's going? and (d) what layouts shall we take? All four questions were eventually answered in a more-or-less positive manner, and a select band of volunteers were awarded entry passes and lectured on the purpose of the visit, which was to advertise ourselves and the exhibition and not to enjoy it too much.
The mission statement was adhered to with reasonably accuracy and success, as the weather steadily improved during the weekend and the crowds flowed through the model railway tent. The deputy chairman's selection of a near-door position (to maximise the breeze potential) turned out to be a prescient one. Numerous exhibition leaflets were scooped up by the visitors, and both layouts behaved themselves. The fact that one was advertising the Corris railway as much as, or even slightly more than the SMRS-branded product, was either not noticed or politely ignored.
The mission statement was adhered to with reasonably accuracy and success, as the weather steadily improved during the weekend and the crowds flowed through the model railway tent. The deputy chairman's selection of a near-door position (to maximise the breeze potential) turned out to be a prescient one. Numerous exhibition leaflets were scooped up by the visitors, and both layouts behaved themselves. The fact that one was advertising the Corris railway as much as, or even slightly more than the SMRS-branded product, was either not noticed or politely ignored.
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A modeller's trilogy
Friday 02 July 2010
It's not often in the modelling world that three goes into one, but we witnessed such an event two nights ago courtesy of Southport Model Engineering Club. They invited us to a running night at their extensive track facility at Rotten Row, along with the Gauge 1 Society. Right next to where the Southport Flower Show is held, to name-drop just a little. So we had the benefit of two sizes of trains to admire, and in the case of the larger one, to ride on. Indeed one or two members were even seen piloting a battery-powered locomotive, which seemed to be taking hospitality a touch far.
The large coal-fired steam locos were the most impressive, not only for their appearance and performance but also for their weight and start-up time, which would have tested the patience, not to mention the sinews, of lesser mortals. Purpose-built trolleys were used to move said locos from the back of well-sprung estate cars to the elevated track, the trolleys no doubt serving a double purpose of stretchers for members overcome by the exertion.
An excellent evening organised by a friendly and skilled bunch of modellers. Plans are in hand to return the compliment at the SMRS clubhouse, although our garden railway may appear a mite weedy by comparison.
The large coal-fired steam locos were the most impressive, not only for their appearance and performance but also for their weight and start-up time, which would have tested the patience, not to mention the sinews, of lesser mortals. Purpose-built trolleys were used to move said locos from the back of well-sprung estate cars to the elevated track, the trolleys no doubt serving a double purpose of stretchers for members overcome by the exertion.
An excellent evening organised by a friendly and skilled bunch of modellers. Plans are in hand to return the compliment at the SMRS clubhouse, although our garden railway may appear a mite weedy by comparison.
* * * * * * *
The chairman peaks at last
Thursday 01 July 2010
The chairman looked a little peaky last weekend, and well he might, after a marathon train ride from London to North Wales to the Lake District to the Scottish Highlands. Apparently it was interspersed with a stroll or two through the countryside in the balmy twilight of the summer solstice, some of it a little uphill by all accounts. And all for charity, so he promised to hand over our willing donations to a good cause, in due course of course.
The official title was the 2010 Three Peaks by Rail Challenge, to which Our Leader rose in triumph, to subside again rather quickly once it was all over. Snowdon, Scafell Pike and Ben Nevis, in that order, in case you were wondering.
The official title was the 2010 Three Peaks by Rail Challenge, to which Our Leader rose in triumph, to subside again rather quickly once it was all over. Snowdon, Scafell Pike and Ben Nevis, in that order, in case you were wondering.
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AGM, and RIP
Sunday 16 May 2010
Strange, it seems barely twelve months since the last AGM, and here it is again. Fairly routine business, apart from the minute's silence at the start of proceedings in memory of fellow member Colin James, who passed away suddenly last week, at an age which nowadays would be regarded as far too young. Colin, as was said at the meeting, was more in the background of the society rather than in the vanguard of developments, but had wide-ranging interests that included the railways of North Wales and the Rotary. The latter included not only District Governership but also involvement in a number of overseas charities. One measure of the man was an acknowledgement that we will have to be early at the funeral on Wednesday to get seats.
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The Dockers' Umbrella
Thursday 13 May 2010
A little culture was enjoyed recently by several SMRS members, in the event more little than most of us expected. Apparently in 1897, before even SMRS was thought of, Lumiere Brothers filmed sections of the Liverpool Overhead Railway, from inside one of the carriages. Liverpool University have acquired copies of the footage, and one Dr Kodeck has analysed every inch of it with Teutonic thoroughness. At Crosby cinema a public presentation was given of the results, in the form of a lecture by the said doctor in cooperation with National Museums Liverpool.
His main interest apparently was using maps and clever software to link the moving images directly to the buildings and other structures along the line. Not the most exciting research one might think, but what might have turned out to be a rather dry presentation was enlivened by the presenter's obvious enthusiasm for the subject and his desire to preserve the archive for the good of his adopted city. The actual showing of the film was a blink-and-you'll-miss-it experience, the four clips lasting less than five minutes in total. Something to do with the amount of film that hand-cranked cameras of the period could carry, and no doubt the amount of cranking that could be undertaken before repetitive strain injury set in.
The finale was a repeat of one clip 'improved' to show how it might look from a vantage point inside the carriage, complete with images of wooden doors and windows and a dum-de-dum sound track. The Liverpool museum trying just a little too hard perhaps.
His main interest apparently was using maps and clever software to link the moving images directly to the buildings and other structures along the line. Not the most exciting research one might think, but what might have turned out to be a rather dry presentation was enlivened by the presenter's obvious enthusiasm for the subject and his desire to preserve the archive for the good of his adopted city. The actual showing of the film was a blink-and-you'll-miss-it experience, the four clips lasting less than five minutes in total. Something to do with the amount of film that hand-cranked cameras of the period could carry, and no doubt the amount of cranking that could be undertaken before repetitive strain injury set in.
The finale was a repeat of one clip 'improved' to show how it might look from a vantage point inside the carriage, complete with images of wooden doors and windows and a dum-de-dum sound track. The Liverpool museum trying just a little too hard perhaps.
* * * * * * *
Who needs friends?
Monday 26 April 2010
Everyone, apparently, certainly the SMRS needs all those it can get. So it was a pleasure to recognise one of our official friends at a recent trip on the Ffestiniog railway. John responded by selling us several copies of his new book, complete with autograph at no extra charge. 1500 have been printed, and have been widely advertised, so we expect John's house to be submerged in paperbacks for only the briefest of interludes.
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The Eagle has landed
Saturday 17 April 2010
Not many people know that Southport was the home of the Eagle comic and its best-known character Dan Dare. Most SMRS members didn't but we were reminded recently when the organiser of the Eagle Society's celebrations of 60 years of the magazine contacted us to ask if they could visit the clubrooms. Apparently the comic ran occasional articles on model railways, so there was a link, albeit tenuous. So as part of a three-day tour of the town's connections with the Eagle, a couple of dozen members of the Eagle Society (collective noun comedians?) had a tour of our premises, hosted by the deputy chairman in his well-practised role as club diplomat and chief ambassador. The Visiter local paper carried an article on the anniversary, and generously included a seven-word mention of SMRS's contribution. Better than a blast from the Mekon's ray gun, anyway.
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Another pensioner
Friday 12 March 2010
The average age of SMRS members is slowly creeping up... Another member hits the 65 anniversary, with curry and cake to mark the fact.
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Another brush with the law
Wednesday 03 February 2010
Not airbrushing this time, but the local Transport Police are developing a model railway layout to use as a teaching aid on the perils of misusing the permanent way. They have asked us if we can help with any spare modelling items and some general technical input. As a more-or-less responsible member of the local community SMRS is happy to assist our neighbourhood enforcement colleagues, and not just because it might do us some good if we ever find ourselves on a Merseyrail train with no visible ticketing.
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A respray offer
Wednesday 03 February 2010
A small postscript from last Tuesday's visit, Railway Models 4U have kindly offered to revisit for a full day, the better to show us more airbrush and weathering techniques, in a more leisured environment perhaps. Dare we mention the clubhouse window frames badly need a touch-up?
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SMRS has a paint job
Tuesday 26 January 2010
A Tuesday Special tonight, in the form of Leslie and Doris from Railway Models 4U of Blackpool, demonstrating their airbrushing skills and the range of spraying equipment they sell. The size of the audience (about 20 members and visitors) necessitated two sittings, and the interest shown meant both overran their allotted time. Fortunately no overtime was charged, and even some sales were made, so everybody went home happy, eventually.
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Infamy at last
Saturday 23 January 2010
An unexpected email has arrived, from a researcher for Eggheads (a BBC TV quiz show). We are invited to send a team to an audition in Liverpool, presumably with the incentive to take part in the show. The Chairman seems quite keen, possibly because as a scouser he feels he has a point to prove. Personally I don't need to prove anything....
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Yet more parties
Tuesday 29 December 2009
Sometimes, the excitement just overflows. Two events in barely a week, namely the informal soiree at the club just before Christmas, and the pretty-well-as-informal do hosted by Tony (and Pebble of course) just after. No photographic record exists of the former, but the food spread at the latter needed photographing almost as much as it needed eating. Donation of an older-than-average single malt by James just added to the atmosphere, as did the inevitable railway videos, of which there seems to be an inexhaustible supply nowadays.
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Party time
Saturday 12 December 2009
SMRS knows how to party, it's just the details get a bit fuzzy as age increases. So a Christmas do was organised as a much-needed reminder. The chairman summoned up his legendary power to influence women and persuaded his nearest and dearest relatives to produce the meal, whilst the rest of us tried desperately to remember how enjoy to ourselves.
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Peter's trains
Wednesday 02 December 2009
Peter bravely opened up his garage today for inspection by SMRS members, complete with multi-track HO European layout and many, many locomotives and items of rolling stock, some going back nearly forty years. Its unique features include a track section whose height above the ground is dictated not by what might be suitable for viewing but what will permit a Lotus sports car to fit underneath. An admirable combination.
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Lanky, Lanky Lancashire
Tuesday 01 December 2009
It is a little-known fact that the 27th of November marks the anniversary of the formation of the county of Lancashire. Well-known however, to one of our number, who organised a celebration of the event in the form of a domestic train-running night, complete with appropriate beers, videos and of course hot-pot. Further celebration took the form of a barrage of home munitions, fireworks in common parlance. These were launched by the lady of the house, with an expertise which left one thinking the huntin', fishin' and shootin' set was probably missing one of their more practised members.
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Slideshow
Tuesday 17 November 2009
Tonight we were due to have a visit by Geoscenics, but the proprietor was confined to his sickbed, so Peter stepped in at short notice with a picture show of many and various locomotives, going back twenty years and more. Our favourite was No.4472 Flying Scotsman, which received a resounding cheer from all but one of our number, who unaccountably has a severe dislike of this magnificent machine, so in need of our financial support to prevent it from finally falling apart.
Peter used a strange but wonderful mechanical contraption called a 'slide projector' to light up the wall with coloured images. This modern technology will never catch on...
Peter used a strange but wonderful mechanical contraption called a 'slide projector' to light up the wall with coloured images. This modern technology will never catch on...
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Scholastic modules
Friday 16 October 2009
The 2009 exhibition passed relatively peacefully, bedding in nicely at its new school venue. The modular layout had its first outing as a working display, complete with DMU shuttle that hardly ever fell off at either end, thanks to some robust but springy foam buffers.
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Junior chemistry kit
Friday 12 June 2009
The deputy chairman applied salt as weedkiller to the garden railway, postulating that chloride and chlorate are spelled similarly so they must work in the same way. The professional gardener looked on approvingly, whilst the chairman pointedly disowned them both.
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Monsal Dale advances, taking no prisoners
Thursday 11 June 2009
Signs of rapid progress with Monsal Dale, as plans turn into reality with commendable speed. All those involved have, of course, been summarily expelled from the Armchair Section of the club.
* * * * * * *
Here we are again
Thursday 16 April 2009
For reasons which are not entirely clear to me, three months have flashed past since the last post. One of these could be explained by my absence on essential railway research in the Antipodes (unfortunately not funded by the taxpayer, unlike some of our honourable elected members of parliament), but where the other two have gone is a mystery.
To recap, Monsal Dale is under way, mainly due to the energy of its principal sponsor, and recently some real modelling was seen happening upstairs, in the long-overdue application of ballast to the fixed dual-gauge layout. Where this burst of activity continues remains to be seen, but betting large sums of money on it would probably be unwise. Also we have been offered first refusal on an N-gauge layout by the son of its former owner. A Prompt Decision will be required, which is not something our Society is known for.
To recap, Monsal Dale is under way, mainly due to the energy of its principal sponsor, and recently some real modelling was seen happening upstairs, in the long-overdue application of ballast to the fixed dual-gauge layout. Where this burst of activity continues remains to be seen, but betting large sums of money on it would probably be unwise. Also we have been offered first refusal on an N-gauge layout by the son of its former owner. A Prompt Decision will be required, which is not something our Society is known for.
* * * * * * *
New Beginnings
Saturday 10 January 2009
The first Meeting of 2009, with a Capital M. So important, in fact, that the Deputy Chairman was empowered to take the chair and lay out The Vision for the Future. The Chairman was safely hidden away in Cumbria, on urgent domestic business. Apart from reinvigorated effort on the existing layouts, there would be a brand new N-gauge layout, based on Monsal Head Viaduct, near Matlock. There was a Cunning Plan to allow it to operate effectively both in the restricted space in the clubrooms and in the full glory of an unrestricted exhibition. It would fold magically in on itself, to protect its sensitive scenery from the harsh realities of doorways and walls. And it would only take three years to build, give or take a decade. Dazed by the breadth of scope of what we were to achieve (and there would be no thought of failure) we stumbled out into the clear cold air of a globally-cooled night, inspired and ready for the Task Ahead. Until next Tuesday, at least.
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Eat-in take-away
Thursday 18 December 2008
A new experience for SMRS, an Indian take-away taken in to the clubrooms for consumption by selected members.
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Last and final call
Friday 17 October 2008
No more on the exhibition, promise. Except to briefly record the debrief, which occupied two intensive hours of discussion this evening, with only a brief pause for tea and shortbread at half-time. Even Pebble contributed, by ensuring that any tea left to go cold in members’ cups during the heat of the debate, did not go to waste.
The short list of topics for discussion was uncomfortably long, almost three dozen, so a strict discipline of no more than two members talking at any one time was applied. The overall impression was of a resounding success, with the gamble of moving to new premises having paid off handsomely. A few learning points, but nothing too drastic, and we are in good shape for the coming year. And if that doesn’t tempt fate, nothing will.
The short list of topics for discussion was uncomfortably long, almost three dozen, so a strict discipline of no more than two members talking at any one time was applied. The overall impression was of a resounding success, with the gamble of moving to new premises having paid off handsomely. A few learning points, but nothing too drastic, and we are in good shape for the coming year. And if that doesn’t tempt fate, nothing will.
* * * * * * *
The Bolton Wanderers
Friday 03 October 2008
Tidying up after an exhibition can be a bit of a chore, with the adrenalin all gone and a whole year yawning ahead in which to finish the model promised for the next one. However three days ago we combined business with pleasure, to return the barriers to our friends at Bolton MRC. Their clubrooms are in Gilnow Mill, an impressive renovated cotton mill in Halliwell. Also impressive was its security system, which was clearly designed to deter potential thieves, vandals and Southern Railway enthusiasts alike. And when I agreed to help unload, no-one told me there would be steps... Fortunately not only additional manpower appeared to lend assistance, but manual handling equipment, in the form of supersized DIY-store trolleys, materialised to help negotiate the barrier sections through a long corridor stretching back into the bowels of the building.
The barriers were soon skilfully stacked in a complex and no-doubt secret pattern, with only a muffled complaint that perhaps they had bred additional of their number whilst enjoying their brief seaside holiday. Tea and biscuits were produced and a guided tour of the premises and their layouts provided, showing evidence of both industry and innovation. SMRS usually only manages either one or the other. The beginnings of a deal to enhance next year’s Southport exhibition with at least one more layout started to coalesce. Mindful of our exhibition manager’s ability to continue such discussions more-or-less indefinitely, I made our excuses and we departed, grateful both for Bolton’s contribution to our cause and for at least a temporary respite in the autumnal rains while we drove back. Next month several of our number will return the compliment by pretending to be stewards at Bolton’s exhibition. And so the wheels go round...
The barriers were soon skilfully stacked in a complex and no-doubt secret pattern, with only a muffled complaint that perhaps they had bred additional of their number whilst enjoying their brief seaside holiday. Tea and biscuits were produced and a guided tour of the premises and their layouts provided, showing evidence of both industry and innovation. SMRS usually only manages either one or the other. The beginnings of a deal to enhance next year’s Southport exhibition with at least one more layout started to coalesce. Mindful of our exhibition manager’s ability to continue such discussions more-or-less indefinitely, I made our excuses and we departed, grateful both for Bolton’s contribution to our cause and for at least a temporary respite in the autumnal rains while we drove back. Next month several of our number will return the compliment by pretending to be stewards at Bolton’s exhibition. And so the wheels go round...
* * * * * * *
Re-entry & splashdown
Monday 29 September 2008
‘All mission objectives accomplished at this time, Captain’. So might our exhibition manager have reported to the Chairman, if both weren’t so knackered after a hard weekend’s exhibitioning. Final figures are still being massaged by our treasurer, but we are well in the black, with credit lines which are neither toxic nor sub-prime. A full de-brief will wait awhile, as more urgent tasks are to hand, such as getting the borrowed barriers back to Bolton, and the hire van back to Ryder’s. Feedback is generally very positive on the venue and on the exhibition itself, whilst still leaving room for the continuous improvement which is characteristic of all progressive institutions nowadays. Banks definitely excepted. Amazing how quickly it all melts away at closing time, with exhibits and trading stands rapidly broken down and shipped out ready for the drive home and the challenge of a new Monday. A couple of hours and it’s all a memory. Will stop now before sentiment gets the upper hand.
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Half-time, and just ahead on points
Saturday 27 September 2008
End of day one finds us well established at cruising altitude. The sun continues to shine, the Deputy Mayor and Mayoress of Sefton have honoured us with their presence, and first indications of the level of public support look hopeful. Official figures are not yet available, and in a new venue it is difficult to judge what is a good-sized crowd, but it looked fairly busy.
A few minor problems, like well-hidden toilets and cafe queues lengthened by the abolition of self-service refreshments for traders and exhibitors. Nothing a well-honed exhibition team couldn’t handle. One unexpected plea for help came via phone from a group of exhibitors whose hire car had had its radiator modified by a van reversing across a canal bridge at Halsall. A rescue car was despatched to recover one of their number to run their layout, whilst the others remained at the scene to negotiate a replacement vehicle, fill in a lot of forms and no doubt examine the small print of their insurance with more than usual interest.
The Saturday evening party at Jim & Fiona’s also went to form, with live steam in the garden preceding curry and cake, washed down with beverages served from a subterranean drinking den with a maritime motif. Guides were available to lead guests further into the extensive cellars, to discover not one but two Italian layouts. Also one which looked suspiciously Southern, located at the very end of the ball of string leading back to the safety of the beer cooler. Interesting to note that, in the interests of the environment, a beer-can crusher has been installed immediately above the green recycling bin. Apparently as the evening wears on the attempts to use it become increasingly inept.
A few minor problems, like well-hidden toilets and cafe queues lengthened by the abolition of self-service refreshments for traders and exhibitors. Nothing a well-honed exhibition team couldn’t handle. One unexpected plea for help came via phone from a group of exhibitors whose hire car had had its radiator modified by a van reversing across a canal bridge at Halsall. A rescue car was despatched to recover one of their number to run their layout, whilst the others remained at the scene to negotiate a replacement vehicle, fill in a lot of forms and no doubt examine the small print of their insurance with more than usual interest.
The Saturday evening party at Jim & Fiona’s also went to form, with live steam in the garden preceding curry and cake, washed down with beverages served from a subterranean drinking den with a maritime motif. Guides were available to lead guests further into the extensive cellars, to discover not one but two Italian layouts. Also one which looked suspiciously Southern, located at the very end of the ball of string leading back to the safety of the beer cooler. Interesting to note that, in the interests of the environment, a beer-can crusher has been installed immediately above the green recycling bin. Apparently as the evening wears on the attempts to use it become increasingly inept.
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So far, so pretty good
Friday 26 September 2008
If not lift-off quite yet, we have main engine ignition and thrust is building, at this time. It’s gone remarkably smoothly so far, with no major problems, and the late September sunshine this afternoon was a welcome bonus. The feeling of spaciousness is quite noticeable, both inside and outside, giving us flexibility as well as more room for displays. All of the exhibitors and traders seemed to have found the new venue; let’s hope the public do likewise tomorrow.
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We are go for launch
Tuesday 23 September 2008
Four days to go, and counting. Our new, bigger and (almost certainly) better exhibition is about to be unleashed on an unsuspecting and probably undeserving public. New road signs have been made, a bigger and better van has been hired, extension leads counted and measured, and posters posted in all Arriva’s buses. And the website’s hits have reached the dizzy heights of fifty a day. Visitors from London are the most frequent, for reasons not immediately apparent.
A deal has been done with Bolton MRC to borrow their barriers, as ours were not suitable for the new venue and have been quietly disposed of to a recyclist of impeccable, if not particularly well-publicised, credentials. All-in-all a bit of a gamble, with extra expense needing to be recouped by a good flow of visitors, hopefully turning up at the new school rather than the old one. But we are quietly confident.
The exhibition manager is coping remarkably well with the extra stress of the new venue, due in no small measure to the careful ministrations of Pebble, his highly-trained and long-suffering therapy dog. One who is struggling to cope at the moment is our fellow-member Bill, in hospital after a stroke last week and rather poorly. We trust news of a triumphant and profitable exhibition will be just the thing to speed his recovery. And of course the odd miniature of quality malt smuggled in amongst the chocs and flowers.
A deal has been done with Bolton MRC to borrow their barriers, as ours were not suitable for the new venue and have been quietly disposed of to a recyclist of impeccable, if not particularly well-publicised, credentials. All-in-all a bit of a gamble, with extra expense needing to be recouped by a good flow of visitors, hopefully turning up at the new school rather than the old one. But we are quietly confident.
The exhibition manager is coping remarkably well with the extra stress of the new venue, due in no small measure to the careful ministrations of Pebble, his highly-trained and long-suffering therapy dog. One who is struggling to cope at the moment is our fellow-member Bill, in hospital after a stroke last week and rather poorly. We trust news of a triumphant and profitable exhibition will be just the thing to speed his recovery. And of course the odd miniature of quality malt smuggled in amongst the chocs and flowers.
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Another old steamer
Saturday 16 August 2008
A touching ceremony at the clubhouse yesterday, as another member was inducted into the Sixties Hall of Fame, reserved for those who have completed six decades of life and are confidently looking forward to at least several more. The event was marked with a presentation, of sorts, of a few small souvenirs of his recent gala event at Hesketh Bank.
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