November

Preparing a new crossing point. The purpose of this to allow access to lorries who will tip spoil in the gulley mentioned in the October update. Members Geoff and Malcom led on this particular project over a couple of weeks. The Drewry “Dougal” under continued renovation, receives further priming of the bodywork. A young visitor to the site being cared for and briefed by Chris

October

Progress is being made on the Track. The View from Oak Tree sidings is looking North East to East In the distance is the burnt out (vandalised) Directors Coach and Oil Tank Wagon on track which has now been temporarily reconnected. The intention is to resite the coach allowing for further track renewal in this area. A view from the other way Supporters loading up the ‘Tug’ in preparation for another ‘go’. Even GP’s are not above doing something menial. Here levelling and packing is performed Points have been inserted at the start of the curve out of the RVR Station site in preparation for new sidings running parallel to the main line. Before that can go further forward, The Network Rail boundary is required to be moved and the gully between the two areas filled.

 

The Supporters Association, official visit to Poland

_Polish Visit

Se

Clearing more of the trackbed towards Northbridge Street, Lifted wooden sleepers make way for more substantial concrete. No matter the time of year there is always track bed to be cleared. This area was cleared to ground level one year ago. “Sentinel” Awaiting relocation to another Heritage Railway. By the end of October even the track in the forground had been replaced by concrete sleepers.

ptember

July,

On the Curve North Eastwards from the Station site early in July The original running line is to the left. The new alignment purpose is to connect with the sidings for stock repositioning. GR 5734,1238 Later in the same month the connection to the siding is made and stock on the move (away from the camera). The plan on the main running line is to smooth the curve and make provision for other layout needs in this area. Different view of same activity. Away from the Station site, the current extent of the line towards Bodiam. A sad tale of vandalism in every respect.

Whilst track work was not always possible members have taken the opportunity to work on the stock.

One of our hardest working pieces of stock, the Smith Rodley, being primed for a new coat, whilst unable to work on the track. One of the Banana vans being refurbished. A lot of the insulation has been replace. Immediately following this shot the open left door was re-insulated, but does give a good idea of the robust door frame.. The chassis of the BP Tank Wagon. Most of the ironwork has been primed but many of the timbers are required to be replaced. The tank itself having already been primed. More body engine cover repairs to the Drewry Dougal, enthusiastically undertaken.

From Bodiam Looking towards Robertsbridge W-.S-W 578140,124955 Very well laid track and deep ballast. With thanks to the Station Master at Bodiam that day