Tag: Chasewater

Teddy: making Colin look big

On By geoffspagesIn Photography, Railways...Leave a comment

TeddyCentenarian Barclay saddle tank Colin McAndrew, a resident favourite at the Chasewater Railway, is very small, without a doubt – one of the smallest standard gauge steam locomotives in existence. But Teddy*, a 75-year-old upstart Peckett, is without a doubt smaller – 2’0″ diameter driving wheels… Smallest? Quite possibly – and almost certainly the smallest in full working order. Today we spent several pleasant hours beside the line, on the occasion of its spring gala. (It didn’t feel much like spring, though the sun did shine early on). A “Rail Diaries” page will be along in a while – in the meantime, here’s Teddy…

*Originally owned by Teddy Boston, of Cadeby Light Railway fame

Chasewater

On By geoffspagesIn Photography, WalksLeave a comment

I’m walking-in some new boots, though I suspect they don’t really need it. A slightly-extended circuit of Chasewater is just the thing on this cold, bright and breezy afternoon. It’s an interesting and popular spot. There are swans, ducks, geese and coots by the dozen. There are deer (at least, there are the heads of deer). There are dog-walkers, families and cyclists: some are quiet, some have to talk very loudly, and some chat with invisible people using little hand-held gadgets. Two of the cyclists are pushing their machines, for no very clear reason (other than the obvious “push-bike”). Close to the car park, there’s a truly crazy golf course – but surely that can’t be the hole? Back at the car, the boots appear to be suitably muddied – and though they didn’t need walking-in, their owner enjoyed a walk out.

View OS map on Streetmap http://www.streetmap.co.uk/map.srf?X=403480&Y=307860&A=Y&Z=120

Coal Trains

On By geoffspagesIn Photography, Railways...Leave a comment
Colin and the coal trucks
Colin and the coal trucks

We’ve been to Chasewater this afternoon, for their “Coal Trains Day” event (what better way to celebrate the solstice?). Red (No 2), green (Colin McAndrew) and blue (Holly Bank No 3) steam locos in action on the self-styled “Colliery Line” – great fun! For more on the day’s activities – and more pictures – visit “Coal Trains Day” on Geoff’s Rail Diaries.