Colne Valley Railway News

This year saw the 30th Victorian Fantasy event for KS2 children.  Numbers have been affected by changes in the curriculum but we still had a good number attend, making it a worthwhile event. Children met Queen Victoria, Sir Rowland Hill and other characters, enjoyed a traditional Punch & Judy show and danced to the fairground organ.  They also enjoyed a Victorian lesson - surprisingly most of the children when asked what their favourite part of the day was will say the classroom, they like the strictness!!

Late September saw two more weekends of fun with Thomas and his friends including Daisy, Trevor, Percy and a miniature Toby. Sir Topham Hatt was on hand to make they all behaved - which they did.

Cambridge blues band Smoken Joe's had a photo shoot at the Railway this evening.  They were extremely lucky with the weather as after heavy rain all day the sun came out so they could get the shots they wanted. More information on the band can be found on www.smokenjoesband.com

BBC Essex visited us this morning as art of the Essex Quest quiz

A lovely start to a hot summers day - being lucky enough to see 3 otters on the river.  Beautiful sight

11th July saw the diesel crane operate for the first time in several years.  This has gradually been got back to working condition by a couple of our volunteers. It successfully lifted the cab roof and tank off WD200. Work is continuing on this loco, and the wheels from Jupiter have gone away to be turned

Early August saw the railway hosting a birthday/retirement party.  The gentleman in question had a steam driving experience in the morning then whilst he was lunching in a local pub about 150 guests arrived to surprise him on his return.  A lot of undercover work to keep it a secret from him but all went without a hitch.