Evening Visit to The Telford Steam Railway 6th July 2022.

A Grand Night out.

On Wednesday 6th of July the group spent it’s annual summer evening out at the Telford Steam Railway where we were joined by members of the Craven Arms Model Railway Circle. Since we numbered thirty six, including several members’ wives, we split into two groups each sharing the same experiences. Whilst one group were entertained by the Phoenix Model Engineering Society, who were offering rides on their excellent 5” gauge running line, others spent had an enthralling guided tour exploring the old exchange goods shed, now the railway’s main workshops. Four locos and a Bedford TK BR lorry were in residence and there was much evidence of equipment and parts needed for the repair, maintenance and renovation of exhibits.

Following this tour, members were escorted round the yard viewing several projects for the future when time and money permit. Hands to complete these tasks are always needed and any time if only for a few hours a week is greatly appreciated. Many of the dedicated volunteers were evident around the site but more are always welcome.

The shop and book stall were keenly examined by members and I believe several purchases were made, all adding to the funds.

At 7.45 we all boarded the class 117 DMU for a run up the line, propelled by a magnificently restored class 37. We were told of the railway’s ambitions for the future. These include the creation of a park and ride facility ready for the day when residents from the nearby housing development are able to travel by rail all the way to connect with the main network for Telford, Birmingham and beyond (not forgetting Shrewsbury of course!!)  The Railway will of course still have access for running heritage trains.   Though completion of these plans lies many years in the future, there are high hopes; the trackbed towards Ironbridge Gorge is still extant including the junction with the former Buildwas power station line. It is hoped that an extension of another mile to Doseley will be completed by next Easter. Piles of new rail were visible ready for the off!  After that, it is all eyes on Lightmoor and beyond.

After our arrival at Horsehay and Dawley station with its beautifully restored buildings and flower beds, the company spent some time admiring the train and time was spent on photography and much railway chat.

A short walk up the station ramp brought us to two buildings which proved of great interest. The first contained the splendid 00 gauge layout of the local club with many trains running, predominantly GWR or LMS. The detail of the scenery and buildings needs to be seen to be believed. So much dedicated work has obviously been spent on design and building. Very knowledgeable and enthusiastic operators were on hand to answer members’ questions. I am sure that many of those attending, like myself, will be inspired to greater things for their own layouts. What I liked especially was the believable way the trains were run and the convincing buildings and dioramas. Space is often our chief consideration when designing a layout at home but when presented with such a large space as here, the imagination can run riot.

Did I mention another building? Ah, yes. The nosh cabin!!! We were treated to a splendid spread of refreshments at the club café, which caters for the public on open days. We were all very impressed by the quality and extent of the buffet and drinks which were on offer. Our especial thanks to the caterers (all volunteers again) for their efforts and the presentation of the foodstuffs.

For any members who missed this experience and I know Covid prevented at least one member from attending, the railway is open and running on Sundays and Bank Holidays.

I think I can speak for all members and their guests in saying a heartfelt “Thankyou“ to the Telford Steam Railway for putting so much effort in to making us welcome and giving us much to think about. We wish them good luck with their future plans.

Phill Yeend.

Photos: Sam Ryan / Ian Payne.
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