Work Update - March 2013

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...!