Midsomer Norton Autumn Mixed Traffic Gala

Last weekend we attended the Midsomer Norton Autumn Mixed Traffic Gala and, although it was a wet day, it was great to have a couple of rides up the line and to see what progress has been made there.

In the photo, above, Class 03, D2128, waits to depart with the 10:00 am service.

From onboard the train, we see Joyce standing at Platform 2 with a short demonstration freight train.

Heading up the 1 in 50 towards the end of the line that, for the moment, is the start of the in-filled cutting, leading to Chilcompton tunnel.

Two views from the train, looking across the wet and windswept Mendips!

 

Here we are at the current limit of the line, which is about a mile from Midsomer Norton station.

On the return journey, we pass the Home signal and, then, a rake of goods wagons on the Up line ...

... followed by this fine view across Midsomer Norton.

Back at the station is the fully restored signal box, a model of which was recently produced by Bachmann, Catalogue No: 44-0100. I believe a few of these are still available through the station shop.

This strange contraption is a KGT3000 Road Rail Vehicle (RRV). It was purchased in 2004 from the Thomas Rail Equipment Company in Cinderford. It has since been extensively used by the Permanent Way team in laying the track extension as well as in general track maintenance activities.

Records show that this six wheel milk tanker, in United Dairies livery, Running No: M44000, actually operated over the S&D. It arrived at Midsomer Norton in 2006 and is undergoing major restoration before it can be used on passenger services or demonstration freight trains.

Finally we have the B40W Wickham Trolley Inspection Car, on which we had a not too uncomfortable ride. A model of this is also available from the shop.