Covering the period up to and including Saturday 14th March 2015

Another week has flown by and whilst the days pass quickly, the workshops and site are showing the progress as numerous jobs reach fruition/completion.

RHEC

Below: With the new season ahead, numerous jobs are being completed that when started seemed to have ages to undertake!  One such job is the replacement of the tram shelter board in the Town, seen here receiving its lettering, undertaken by Phil and Sarah.  This is one of many signs that will be appearing around the Museum over coming weeks – some new, some refurbished.

Below: We are working up a detailed plan to continue the restoration (whilst in use!) of the Savage Steam Gallopers.  In order to attend to the cranks, horses, related twists and numerous other jobs (which are all set in banks of three, totalling 12 banks), two cranks (opposite each other) are going to be removed – which means the ride will be short of six horses.  This is quite traditional, the gaps being made up with sleighs or chariots.  To this end, Peter, one of the workshop volunteers, is building a pair of sleighs from scratch and to a rather tight schedule.  These will accommodate a family of four and the design has been based on photographs of those used on other similar rides.

Below: Tony and Matt have stripped the lower panels from 264’s top deck.  These were in poor condition and will be replaced by marine plywood panels.  Numerous other details are also to be replaced as they have not endured well.  Peter Barlow is making replica open light fittings for the interior.

Outside Works

Below: Numerous windows are being replaced in Ravensworth Terrace.  Note also the refurbished dorma window.  Not glamorous work, nor cheap, but vital all the same.

Below: The servicing pit at Rowley is now complete, with the rails and chairs secured.  Some ‘landscaping’ (i.e. spreading ash) will follow. The upright to support the water column has been designed and is under construction by a contractor.  This will be installed and the rest of the back-filling will take place and enable us to complete the water delivery pipework.  Thought is also been given to installing lighting in this area.

Below: Work is also continuing on the Council Depot.  Next week the fencing and gates will be fitted across the gap between the shed and the level crossing, to form a yard area.

Below: Six cast iron bollards have been bought for use on the coal platform, seen here roughly located whilst I was working out the gaps between each one.  Fortunately one was a corner piece, seen nearest the camera.  These will be fitted with railings, with a gap fitted with chains to enable a locomotive to be coaled through it.