401 in Steam Today

Michael W (L) and Michael D (R) take the opportunity before trains start to continue with re-railing the south crossover, seen here using the Ironmen to lift the rail into place.

Michael W cutting the rail down to the required length.

Taking over from 08915 for the rest of the month, 03078 makes a welcome return to shed pilot duties. 

Today's guard, Joe, undergoing his 03 driver's practical exam during the morning line inspection.

Cleaners preparing 401 for the day ahead.

401 being coupled up to the carriages before the first train.

Trainee Guard Oliver carrying out an essential part of the guard's fitness to run examination of the carriages - a 'continuity test'. Once the locomotive is coupled up to the carriages and has created 21in of vacuum, the guard removes the vacuum hose from its dummy on the opposite end of the train and checks that the brakes apply as a result. This proves that the braking system is continuous throughout the train and guarantees that if the train were to become divided, an immediate and automatic brake application would be made throughout.

With the carriages stabled in the platform, 401 propels the coal wagons into the north headshunt to free up the run-round loop.

Passengers watching the crew prepare 401 for departure from Percy Main.

Oliver giving 401's driver the right away to depart with the second train of the day.

The first stage of the Woodland Walk open to be enjoyed by the public.

Oliver guides the driver of 401 onto the carriages after lunch.

Passengers gather at Percy Main to watch 401 run round and visit the guard's van shop.

08915 stabled where it can be viewed by the public in the running shed.

Driver Steve begins to run 401 round the carriages on the last train.

The last arrival of the day into Middle Engine Lane.

03078 shunts the carriages away at the end of the day.

Re-railing Continues

Work to re-rail the south end of Middle Engine Lane yard has resumed this week, with the focus being on the new south crossover.

Michael D using the rail saw.

Oil Tank Progress

Norman has been forging ahead with the repaint of the NTSRA's tank wagon, with a coat of grey undercoat now being applied to the north end.

New Lathe

With machining work increasing in the workshop, two NTSRA members have purchased a second lathe, a Colchester Triumph 2000 - identical to the one already used by workshop volunteers (only with a shorter bed).

Loaded up and ready to be transported to the museum.

Michael and James using the overhead gantry crane to hoist the 1 tonne lathe off the flatbed truck.

Jack helps to remove surface rust and grime from the bedways.

Sat in its temporary position, volunteers will work to get the lathe operational.

New Miniature Loco

Two members of the NTSRA have purchased a 7 1/4" battery electric locomotive to be used on our new miniature railway project. 

Thursday Trains

 

Fireman Aaran instructing trainee Callum on the pre-light-up checks of the smokebox.

08915 ready to haul 401 out of the shed...

...and later stable the carriages in the platform.

Paul receiving some driver training on 08915 during the morning line inspection.

Visitors enjoying 401 at Percy Main on the first train of the day.

Waiting at the stop board in Middle Engine Lane loop for the fireman to set the points.

Callum firing whilst Aaran keeps an eye on the boiler pressure. 

The Waggonway Tearoom - manned today by volunteers Peter and Josh - is open on every running day throughout the summer holidays.

03078 pulled out of the workshop for the day and stabled where the public can view it.

At Percy Main, passengers walk to the end of the train to view the locomotive and have a look at the souvenirs and refreshments on sale in the guard's van shop.

Ready for departure.

Midweek Steam

401 ready to go with the first train and 08915 stabled beyond the crossing having completed its morning shunting duties.

Fireman Aaran building up his fire at Percy Main.

401 at Percy Main.

Stabled by the water tower over lunch.

Today's guard, Matt, keeps a watchful eye over trainee fireman Callum as he uncouples 401 from his train.

Smart as a dart! Guard Matt (L) with Trainee Guard Oliver (R).

Callum cleans out 401's smokebox at the end of the day.