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23rd September 2001 |
It
is what it is, a narrow gauge railway running alongside Rudyard
Lake along the trackbed of the former Churnet Valley route. It
runs through some tremendous scenery and is well worth the visit.
The dam end of the lake has a visitor's centre and cafe/sales
shop - very nice surprise.
Not being from
Staffordshire I was confused by this sign, if it was in local
dialect I could be sent the wrong way!!! Which way is the town
and which way is the water?
On
then to Cheddleton and the Churnet Valley
Railway.
We arrived at the crossing gate to find it closed, out with the
camera and a quick shot of the S160 running through the station
en route for Leekbrook. When it returns we shall board for a ride
down the valley, my first run behind this American beast. When
it was opened up after the crossing WOW! talk about a bark.
While we could
hear "that lonesome whistle blow" in the distance, I
took the opportunity to photograph TVT128G, the bus preserved
by the "TVT128G Group". It looked to be in fine
fettle and I know that the group are seeking extra members so
details from Alan Hall on 01782 848544 (reasonable times please).
The
train returned and parked nicely for all to get on board, it looks
even bigger at track level.
The new station
building at Consall is almost complete and looks terrific, congratulations
to Dave Felstead and all that helped with the project.
Once
again a very pleasant run down the valley to Froghall where the
runround procedure takes place.
Under THAT
road bridge and over the points to reverse...
Steam
in the valley...
Peek-a-Boo...
These
shots were taken with one safety valve blowing but just after
this one was taken they both opened up to a tremendous display
- just as the flash card filled up! I changed it and was ready
to shoot just as the valves closed again......
Ready for the
return journey and another coffee in the buffet car - great.
Back
at Cheddleton and some final adjustments before leaving with the
last train of the day.
Oh No! - not
the air pump again? No, just checking, one can't be too careful.
A
last look from the driver and away.
Past the row
of diesels while being filmed.
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