Words & Photographs (C) S. Alford The past few weeks have been very
busy at the GLR, and I apologise now for not updating the blog recently; not just that fact we have been busy but also due to some technical issues with the site, all of which I can now assure you are fixed. So, where to start. Sunday 10th March saw us install a section of track which has now extended the head shunt at tower view. Although not very big, this new piece will allow for us to have more much-needed space when running the engine around the train. It also saw us begin the installation of the new up distant signal to Tower View. Under the watchful eye of the “boss of signals” John ‘CJ’ Penny, the lattice post was placed (I say placed, it was more like skilfully lifted into place using the Merlo driven by the boss Mr Gartell!) into the hole dug out by the digger. It was then a matter of fitting all the bits and bobs on it to make it look like a signal rather than just a freshly painted post in a hole… after checking that it was standing straight, the lattice post was ballasted in place. The hood on the Common Lane crossing down home signal and Pinesway Junction distant signal was ‘trimmed’ on one side as this was too close to the track, the signal itself was also moved a few inches so now there is plenty of clearance as trains approach/leave the crossing. The week after, 17th March, we had finished installing the new signal. It now had an arm, lamp, and all the other necessary fittings (see picture below). Fitting all these bits took up most of the day as several adjustments had to be made, plus it was mighty cold so a few cups of tea, or in myself, Chandler and Charlie’s case mugs of hot chocolate were downed! Sunday just gone, 24th March, a lot of work was carried out and completed. Dave, CJ and Mike B made the last adjustments to the new signal and it is now ready to be connected to the ground frame. Whilst this was being carried out, myself Chandler and Charlie had the task of cleaning out the level crossings from all the mud that had got wedged between them, they now sit clean and are ready for our open day on Easter Monday. The three of us then went on to clean the coaches, and to our surprise found that the roof in one of the sets had started to grow mould on…a few hours later and a bucket of hot water and mould remover, plus some nice smelling air freshener and the coaches were as good as new! Bertie spent the day finalising the new phone system, whilst Steve worked in the shop on the new layout and Mike L was busy revamping GLR signs. Today (Tues 26th March) CJ connected all the wheels up ready for the new signal. All that’s left to say is, hopefully see you on Easter Monday! Until next time...! To our faithful website visitors...You may have noticed recently that we haven't been posting much information on our blog site... For this, we are sorry! A lot has been happening at the GLR and we have also had a few technical issues with the site, however, watch this space as a post containing information on the past few weeks will be arriving shortly! Thank you! - S.A
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Welcome!This blog is updated as soon as anything new happens at the GLR. Please check back often to keep up to date with the progess that we're making with the Railway. PLEASE NOTE THE BLOG IS TEMPORARILY OUT OF USE. WE WILL RESUME BLOG POSTS LATER IN THE YEAR. IN THE MEANTIME PLEASE CHECK FACEBOOK FOR THE LATEST NEWS. THANK YOU.
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