November 2009 update
7511
Our recently restored LMSR 1934-built Open First No. 7511 had its inaugural run with its restorers and fundraisers on board on November 7th. The ‘Venturer’ kitchen car and crew provided a fine selection of meals which were funded from the residue of the restoration funds. Thanks to Ivor and Denise for their work in the kitchen.
The following day, Sunday 8th November saw 7511 and the same kitchen car, 1682, providing lunch to the first fare paying passengers to use 7511 since about 1964. Chief Steward Paul Thursfield, also the Treasurer since the start of 7511’s overhaul began, was able to keep an eye on our new toy on its first turn of duty. A second day’s work on Sunday will round off the Venturer season for 2009 and both 7511 and 1682 will then winter-up in Kidderminster Carriage shed. It is probable that 7511 will deputise for Venturer Dining car No. 3103 next spring, while 3103 works in the ‘Limited’ set in place of GWR Restaurant Third No. 9653 which is undergoing an overhaul.
Kidderminster Turntable
During November the Trust’s new asset, the Kidderminster Turntable, has been receiving attention from work experience lads attached to Kidderminster Paint shop, under the direction of the Trust chairman. Weed removal in the pit and surrounding area has been going on prior to removing all the large ballast down there. ‘Terram’ mat will be provided by the P. Way dept. and laid on the sandy bottom before topping up with fine gravel. This is intended to prevent further infestation by Buddleia and Mares Tail, both of which have been rampant and unchecked for several years. A mini-digger is to be hired to scrape the pit clean and the stone removed will be made available to the P. Way for use elsewhere on stabilisation or drainage work.
7819
A recent visit to MacArthur Glenn shopping centre, previously known as Swindon Works, revealed our engine 7819 ‘Hinton Manor’ in Christmas mode. The tender is heaped with 'presents' and a Santa Claus, while the boiler is decked with boughs of Holly. Poor thing!