2010

Half Yearly Objectives
 

1 - Continue to upgrade the track to running standard.
1.1 Replace the Siding to nowhere with standard Rail
1.2 Smooth out the curve
1.3 Ballast track all the way to buffer stop

2 - Finish Installation and testing of Dougals Brakes

3 - Complete the 3 Plank Wagon
3.1 The exterior works
3.2 Install seating

4 - Refurbish the VSOE Building interior.
4.1 Increasing the shop area
4.2 Improve the static displays and information centre.

5 Continue the renovation of the GBLV
5.1 Ongoing repairs to the walls and roof is required over the winter.
5.2 Clear out the common space to make ready for the volunteers

December

Late Dec - We have been informed that the Mark I coach after several months of work and cost will be withdrawn from the Rother Valley Railway for restoration elsewhere. Although this is a blow for volunteer facilities at Robertsbridge it is little more than an irritant for progress.

The Supporters Association (SA) has offered to take on the catering need of the Railway and will now set up a buffet in the GBLV. This is one of two vehicles the SA owns. Initially this will be to serve the needs of volunteers, but will eventually serve the public once a suitable coach has been sourced and funds raised to purchase.

(PB)

The early snows created a most seasonal shot. Probably to feature on next years Christmas cards.

Whilst the buffet is being relocated to the Mark 1, the space previously occupied in the old VSOE has been released to allow an improved information centre and an expansion of the shop.

(TEDS)

(TEDS)

Back to the GBLV the poor weather allows time for some of the internal works to continue. One of the old doors is being refurbished.

November

Close to finishing with plans to reopen to the public  very much in mind.

(TEDS)

Getting the Mark 1 up to speed to serve as a mobile buffet has been a priority for the RVR crew following the loss of the VSOE building.

A professionally installed set of steps have been installed to serve the public access.

(TEDS)

(TEDS)

Internally new stainless steel fittings have been purchased and a new continuous hard wearing floor has been fitted to have the facilities up to the most modern and hygienic levels.

Whilst all the development has been at RVR East (Udiam/Quarry Farm) at RVR West the No 1 bridge of renown is now receiving attention.

A civil engineer and volunteers debate options.

(TEDS)

October

  
  (SG)

 
  (SG)

-<Running set of 3 plank wagon and Brake Van.

The Dougal shunting the 3 Banana vans into the ->  car park bay siding.

As the weather declines more of the indoors tasks appear more popular.

<-VSOE under continuing repair and with new volunteers assisting in the works

And table renovations in the Mark 1 in preparation for opening as a buffet.    -->

<- Further preparation for the buffet. Two Months into this project the stainless steel fittings have been installed and water and other services brought close to.

September

  (RD)

Track clearance North of Quarry farm

  (RD)

Pete continuing to fit Dougal for brakes. A fabrication of non standard parts.

     (GW)

Hoppickers Weekend
As always hosted by KESR at Bodiam

  (DW)

  (RD)

  (DW)

 
  (TEDS)

 
  (SG)

    
  (SG)

    (SG)

     (SG)

<- The buffet previously in the VSOE is being relocated into the Mark 1 coach.

Much of the internal fitting has commenced       -> although completion is unlikely before December.

August

Many of the main line commuters will have seen one of our carriages over a car at Robertsbridge. Fear not it was an exercise by the Local Fire and Rescue services and not a mishap. More details in the Rye and Battle observer.

Further progress on the line. All track has now finished being upgraded by the Pway team.

More ballasting to follow, but less time sensitive.

The renovated Brake van ready for the proposed running service.

(TEDS)

The new vacuum pump motor fitted and testing. In the meantime a vacuum valve control is being fitted into the cab. <-

Meantime the VSOE building (our  shop) continues renovation and refitting work. According to the shop manager we should be open by the end of August.          -> 

(TEDS)

<- The below points two weeks later following the Track Working Weekend

A part of the track crew using the ->  Tug Jerry M.

The Weekend run by our Permanent Way Manager “Simon” would be happy to hear from any and all potential Volunteers.

reception@rvr.org.uk

(TEDS)

(TEDS)

(TEDS Video)

The point to nowhere north of the station site is to be taken out and eventually reset. In the meantime the point has been unclipped and ready for lifting ->

-->> To help with works at Robertsbridge the digger has been brought in. Considering what a quick and fine job was performed at RVR East (Udiam)

July

To mark the completion of Phase 3B a garden party was held at Udiam Farm inviting dignitaries and Railway seniors. Thanks go to the owners for making all this possible, for the line itself and the garden party.

(GC)
(Left to right - Greg Barker MP for Bexhill and Battle, Mike Hart OBE, Gardner Crawley RVR Trust Chairman)

(GC)

     (TEDS)

(TEDS Video)

<- Julie in Edwardian for the Railway during its heyday.

At the Garden party the Tamper gave a demonstration of its activities, which were most impressive

(PH Video)

(TEDS Video)

(MY)

(MY)

<- In preparation for the Garden Party the Tamper sets out to do what it does best.

And moving in KESR stock to enhance the Garden Party experience. ->

(TEDS)

July opened with the further westward extension of the line to the B2244 at Udiam. The ground work was virtually completed, with fencing to follow.

Photos in this section accredited:(alphabetical)
     (PB) - Peter Brown
     (CG) - Gardner Crawley
   (RD) - Robin Dyce
     (PH) - Paul Hutchinson
     (SG) - Steve Griffiths
     (TEDS) - Trevor Streeter
     (DW) David Ware
     (GW) - Geoff Wyatt
     (MY) - Mark Yonge
 
 

 All photographic materials and videos remain the right of the Rother Valley Railway and may not be used without prior permission.

Last updated 27/12/10