Colne Valley Railway News

24th July saw the first Colne Valley Bus Rally. 30 buses attended, ranging from a 1939 Bristol K of Westcliff to a 2010 Enviro 400 from local operator Hedingham Omnibuses. A lot of interest was created by 4 Bedford OBs, two of them being rare examples - one had been converted into a motor-home 40 years ago (complete with flock wallpaper, mock beams and artex ceiling!) the other was known as a toast rack - it had no glass in the windows and this was its first rally. . An ex-Southdown open-top bus proved very popular running to Halstead on a warm day For a first event it was a very good day, and it will happen again next year - 22nd July.

The boiler for WD190 was returned to the CVR today after having essential work carried out away from the site. The boiler has been placed in the cradle vacated by Victorys boiler, ready for the tubes to be put back.

The frames and boiler of Barclay 0-4-0ST Victory were reunited today as restoration continues steadily. The pics show the frames ready to take the boiler, the boiler on its way and finally in place. She still looks a tiny engine!

The CVR went to war on the 10th July with 1940s re-enactors, military vehicles and lots of period costume. Again the weather was very good, which helped in making this the most successful CVR at War event so far

On the 26th June we had our annual Model Railway Exhibition. Featuring trade stands and layouts in all shapes and sizes this event proved to be very popular.

Thomas visited the CVR during June along with other Friends, including Daisy and Sir Topham Hatt. There was lots of fun and games to be had and we also had steam on the 7 1/4" railway. The re-enactment involved Fireman arriving in their Fire engine - great fun. Lots of hard work and we do it all again in September.