Roger’s Cless 73 from last month’s meeting, by popular request!
Following the discussion at the AGM we set up the Lenham Junction boards incorporating them into the circuit to see how the combined layout fitted into the available space within the hall. By placing one end of the circuit over the stage we were able to retain the big table in its usual configuration and position and by using the stage to its full extent we could in fact save a further three to five feet. After everybody had had the opportunity to see the extended circuit, we returned the Lenham boards to the storeroom so that normal service could resume on the circuit.
Today’s focus was on non-UK stock, so we looked to Rob who didn’t disappoint running his Southern Pacific mogul hauling a train of freight cars and a caboose. John B also got into the act running his Illinois 0-4-0 diesel pulling a short coal train.
Later some of Geoff’s industrial locos were given a run out. These included a Hawthorn Leslie 0-4-0 ST and another little 0-4-0ST “Cwm Taff”. Geoff also had his GWR condensing pannier tank now fitted with all the extra pipe work and other bits and pieces and only requiring painting for completion. Bill ran his LSWR train of two 48ft coaches (a Tri Compo and a Brake 3rd) being pulled by his Class 02 0-4-4T. A LSWR Class B4 0-4-0T also appeared with a short train and finally
Graham ran two of his locos from “up north” being an ex-LNER K3 2-6-0 and a BR Standard Class 2 2-6-0.
Meanwhile on the big table the usual putting the world to rights ensued and also put to rights was Stuart C’s Dapol 08 Diesel from which some connections had come apart.
Fortunately, David Ho was on hand with his trusty soldering iron and the 08 was soon restored to health.
Over lunch I read out the usual notices and we discussed the Lenham Junction project and I circulated a list prepared by David Gr and Roger setting out the numerous tasks (some of which are already in hand) to be undertaken to move this matter to completion. Several members expressed an interest in becoming involved in this project and the list will be
circulated again with the next newsletter so that everybody who wants to can join in. David Gr and/or Roger will be the points of contact for co-ordinating this.
I also brought up the subject of our Open Day. Last year we had put on a very good show which was enjoyed almost exclusively by just ourselves, as despite being advertised as usual, almost nobody else turned up. After a roundtable discussion it was decided to give the Open Day a miss this year and reconsider the matter next year.
Once again David Ho kept us all supplied with teas and coffees until we packed everything away and set off for home. Chris
