Bluebell Railway web site:
Site Update Archive 2006
Please be aware that due to the historical nature of this page, some of the
links on it may be out of date.
The Current What's New page and the 2007 archive contain
all the recent update information.
Also see the 2005, the 2004, the 2003, the 2002, the 2001, the 2000, the 1999 and the 1997-8 "What was new" archive pages.
Photographic and video reports 2006:
Please note that some photos included below are taken by volunteers and staff during the course of their duties, and so may have been taken in areas not open to the general public. These photos are very valuable, since they enable the public to see these otherwise hidden facets of the railway, but visitors to the railway should note that they may be unable to visit these locations themselves.
- Jon Bowers selection of the best of 2006.
- Photos showing the Santa and Victorian trains, from Tom Waghorn, Nick Talbot, Derek Hayward, Dave Jefferys, and Andrew Strongitharm, and also from Andrew, a gallery for Eddystone, and photos of all six Victorian coaches - 21-24 December 2006
- Photo collections from Dave Clarke showing the sunrise over the railway from Highbrook , the overhaul of the S15 (847), Sir Archibald Sinclair in the loco works, and a photo showing progress on the LSWR carriage No.1520 - 17 December 2006
- Photos of Santa Special trains, from Tim Easter, Dave Clarke and Nick Talbot - 16-17 December 2006
- Photos from Chris Dadson showing that the excavation to the south of Imberhorne Lane bridge is now finally complete - 12 December 2006
- Photo updates from Dave Clarke: "Eddystone" and the Carol Service, photos of the excavated cutting at Imberhorne Lane bridge, SECR Hundred Seater No.1098 in the paint-shop, and Carriage & Wagon restoration projects - 9 December 2006
- Andrew Strongitharm's recent photos, including several of Eddystone, and an album showing rolling stock, including ones taken following the re-launch of Pullman Car 64 ("Christine") - 9 December 2006
- Video (1.7 MB .wmv format) from Jon Bowers showing 75027 - please note: this was taken during Permanent Way work in Sharpthorne tunnel, this location is strictly out of bounds to anyone without specific authority to be there! - 3 December 2006
- Photos of the Santa Special trains from Derek Hayward - 2,3 December 2006
- Paul Pettitt has pages for the Somerset & Dorset Photographic Charter on 17th November, and a new page for Bluebell visitor, No.34028 Eddystone - 1 December 2006
- Photo from Chris Dadson showing D3023 on an extension works train - 29 November 2006
- Andrew Strongitharm's photos taken on the 4th & 26th November and a new collection of photos of the U class 1638 - 26 November 2006
- Latest from the Carriage & Wagon dept. from Dave Clarke - 26 Nov 2006
- Photos taken by Rob Faulkner showing progress in the overhaul of the C-class - 25 November 2006
- Photos from Ashley Smith including 'Eddystone' on the lunch-time Pullman - 19 November 2006
- Photos from the night shoot at Horsted
Keynes with locos 75027 and 34028 "Eddystone" from Tony Pearce - 17 November 2006
- Matt Allen and Dave Clarkehave some photos and Jon Bowers has photos and videos, from the Somerset & Dorset themed photo charter. Chris Dadson's photos show the charter in operation - 17 November 2006
- Photo Charter with Martello from Tony Pearce, Chris Nevard, and a guard's view of the event from Chris Dadson - 14 November 2006
- The Terrier Gala from Paul Pettitt, Tony Pearce: (Friday, Sunday, and Monday), David Warwick, Sean Tompsett, Andrew Strongitharm, Richard Thomas, Dave Clarke, Matt Allen, Nick Talbot, Michael Topham, Derek Hayward, Owen Chapman, Linda Chen, Margaret Easter, Chris Ward, Ashley Smith, Rob Faulkner, Nick Beck, Ray Wills, Chris Dadson, Peter Skuce
and Daniel Crofton-Green.
Also YouTube Videos from Chris Ward - 10,11,12 and 13 November 2006
- Photo gallery update from Chris Dadson, showing spoil
excavation to the south of Imberhorne Lane, and the 'triangle' at Horsted Keynes beginning to fill up - 7 November 2006
- Photos taken by Rob Faulkner showing progress in the overhaul of the C-class - 5 November 2006
- Photos from the relaunch day of LCDR Carriage 114 from Dave Clarke and Nick Beck (see also C&W News) - 4 November 2006
- Dave Jefferys photos from the last couple of weeks - 4 November 2006
- Updates from Paul Pettitt: additional photographs for E4, No 32473 and an update to his Standard 4 Tank No.80151's pages - 1 November 2006
- Photos from the Wizards Weekend from Nick Beck - 29 October 2006
- Photos from Derek Hayward showing the half-term service trains, Sussex Belle Pullman, activity at Sheffield Park and the extension spoil train - 27 October 2006
- Paul Pettitt has a new gallery specific to City of Truro - 23 October 2006
- Photos and videos of our Giants of Steam weekend
- 21-22 October 2006
- City of Truro, progress in preparing SR S15 No.847 for its boiler lift, and the completion of lettering on LCDR coach 114 from Dave Clarke - 19 October 2006
- Photos of 34028 Eddystone from Chris Dadson, on a test run - 18 October 2006
- Photos of City of Truro from Jon Bowers - 18 October 2006
- A variety of photos taken around the railway from Matt Allen - 16 October 2006
- Photos from Nick Beck of the night shoot with City of Truro and Earl of Berkeley - 15 October 2006
- Photos of the "City Limited" breakfast train from Daniel Crofton-Green - 13 October 2006
- Photos from Tony Pearce showing 'City of Truro' on the City Limited Pullman train, 'Fenchurch' on the Autumn Tints specials - 13 October 2006
- Photos from Derek Hayward showing 'City of Truro' on the City Limited Pullman train, 'Fenchurch' on the Autumn Tints specials, and activity at Sheffield Park - 13 October 2006
- Photos from Chris Dadson showing the erection of the two platform starter signal posts at the north end of Kingscote station. Also, photographed from
the public highway above the tunnel portal, one of the 'Autumn Tints special'
trains about to enter West Hoathly Tunnel - 11 October 2006
- Photos from Chris Dadson showing the 08 on the spoil trains - 3 October 2006
- Photos of City of Truro in service on the Bluebell taken on Sunday by Daniel Crofton-Green - 1 October 2006
- Photos from Dave Clarke showing work on the viaduct at East Grinstead on the Extension, the SECR birdcage brake No.3363 now re-united with its underframe, progress with signwriting on the LCDR brake No.114, and City of Truro's test run - 30 Sept - 1 Oct 2006
- Update to Paul Pettitt's page of photos of SER O1 loco No.65 - 1 October 2006
- Photos from Chris Dadson, showing the re-started spoil clearance from the cutting south of Imberhorne Lane Bridge - 28 September 2006
- Photos from Chris Dadson showing City of Truro arrived at Sheffield Park - 27-28 September 2006
- Photos from Rob Faulkner showing the working day on No.592 - 17th September 2006
- Chris Dadson took some photos of Ivatt tank 41312 on its last day in steam on the Bluebell - 12 September 2006
- Photos of Carriage and Wagon restoration from Dave Clarke - 10 September 2006
- Photos of "Eddystone" shortly after being offloaded from Chris Dadson - 6 September 2006
- Photos by Ashley Smith - 2 September 2006
- Photos taken last week by John Sands - 2 September 2006
- Photos from Derek Hayward - 1 September 2006
- Additional photos of Earl of Berkeley from Paul Pettitt - 1 September 2006
- Photos from Dave Clarke, showing work on the Birdcage Brake underframe as well as hanging another two doors on Bulleid Brake No.2526, and p-way work at the end of the Ardingly running line - 30 August 2006
- Photos from Chris Dadson showing work re-starting on the excavation of the spoil at Imberhorn Lane Cutting, with the move of the digger back to site - 29 August 2006
- Photos from the Bank Holiday weekend, from Tom Waghorn and Derek Hayward - 27-28 August 2006
- Re-assembly of the SECR Birdcage coach underframe - from Dave Clarke - 20 August 2006
- Loco Workshop Working Day, the overhaul of the SECR C-class from David Pratt and Rob Faulkner - 13 August 2006
- Photos from Dave Clarke, showing the overhaul of the Birdcage underframe, progress on Car 64/Christine, and the temporary building being erected over the LBSCR Milk Van No.270, in which it will be restored - 13 August 2006
- Photos from Chris Dadson
- Updates to pages for No.75027 (carrying wreath in memory of John Potter, former Chairman and Company Secretary) and for the SER O1 No.65 from Paul Pettitt - 1 August 2006
- Photos showing the overhaul of the SECR C-class loco, from Rob Faulkner - 30 July 2006
- Photos from Derek Hayward - 29 July 2006
- SECR Birdcage brake's lift from its underframe, and work on LSWR coach 1520 from Dave Clarke - 29 July 2006
- Photos from Day out with Thomas event from Paul Pettitt - 2 July 2006
- Revised page from Paul Pettitt for Loco No.75027 - 1 July 2006
- Photo gallery showing what's been going on around the Railway in the last month, from Chris Ward - 30 June 2006
- Photos from the first day of our "Day out with Thomas" events from Derek Hayward - 24 June 2006
- Andrew Strongitharm - 14 June 2006
- More from Derek Hayward - 11 June 2006
- Photos from the last weekend from Derek Hayward - 4 June 2006
- Photos from Rob Faulkner of the third Loco Workshop Working Group day, overhauling the SECR C-class - 4 June 2006
- Recent photos (mainly around the Carriage & Wagon) from Dave Clarke - 1 June 2006
- Update to his page of Signage & Posters around the Railway from Paul Pettitt - 1 June
- Photos from the late May Bank Holiday weekend, including the Ivatt tank back for another spell on the Bluebell, from Derek Hayward.
- Photos from Rob Faulkner of the second Loco Workshop Working Group Day - 28 May 2006
- Photos from the hugely popular Southern at War event - 13-14 May 2006:
- 12 photos from around the yard at Sheffield Park from Chris Ward - 12 May 2006
- Photos and progress report on work in the Carriage & Wagon Department from Dave Clarke - 10 May 2006
- Photos and videos of our Terriers visiting the KESR: 6-9 May 2006
- Photos of the next track panel laid towards East Grinstead from Chris Dadson, as the spoil-loading dock has moved further into the excavated cutting - 9 May 2006
- Photos of current status of excavation South of Imberhorne Lane Bridge from Dave Clarke - 5 May 2006
- Photos from the first day of the new Locomotive Workshop working group from Phil Stoneman - 3 May 2006
- Updates to pages of photos of SR U-Class No.1638 and SECR Class O1, No.65 from Paul Pettitt - 3 May 2006
- 3D Bluebell photos (you'll need red/green glasses to view in full 3D) from John Sandys - 3 May 2006
- Video from David Chappell showing Fenchurch and the Mets departing from Horsted Keynes - 2 May 2006
- Photos of Doris, and activity around the Carriage and Wagon department from Dave Clarke - 23 April 2006.
- The completed work on the Sheriff Mill embankment at Horsted Keynes from Chris Dadson - 23 April 2006
- Photos on Ian Smith's Bus Stop of the April East
Grinstead Vintage Bus Running Day, including 434 and 473 services serving Kingscote station.
- Photos showing work on the extension from Chris Dadson - 19 April 2006
- Goods Train weekend (8-9 April 2006)
- Photos from around the Carriage and Wagon department from Dave Clarke - 9 April 2006.
- Photos of the arrival of Brighton Belle Pullman Car Doris from Tom Waghorn - 9 April 2006.
- New page of photos of the U-class No.1638 from Paul Pettitt.
- Photos of current progress excavating Imberhorne South Cutting from Chris Dadson and Dave Clarke - 26 March 2006
- Photos of activity at Horsted Keynes from Tom Waghorn - 26 March 2006
- Photos of work being carried out on the new siding (which will accomodate the sleeping cars) at Sheffield Park from John Sands - 23 March 2006
- General Bluebell photos, and LCDR coach 114 restoration work, and progress on excavation of Imberhorne Cutting on the extension to East Grinstead from Dave Clarke - 17 March 2006
- Fotopic gallery from Tom Waghorn with photos taken on Sunday 5 March 2006
- Photos around the Carriage works from Dave Clarke - 28 February 2006
- A set of photos recording the visit of the Ivatt tank from Andrew Strongitharm - July 2005 - Feb 2006.
- Branch Line Weekend - 25-26 February 2006:
Photos from Dave Bowles, Andrew Strongitharm, Paul Pettitt, Dave Clarke,
Matt Allen, Owen Chapman, Martin Creese,
Tom Waghorn, Tony Pearce, Chris Ward, David Warwick, Jon Bowers, Nick Beck and Ashley Smith,
plus two videos from David Chappell: 1638 at Horsted Keynes (1.7 MB Windows Media), and Normandy with the Mets (1.9 MB Windows Media),
two from Mike Snow: 9017 leaves Sheffield Park (2.3 MB Windows Media) and 1638 at Tremains (1.5 MB Windows Media),
two from Chris Ward: The Ivatt leaves Horsted Keynes (5.5 MB Quicktime) and the Dukedog arrives at Horsted Keynes in the dark (4.6 MB Quicktime)
together with five videos from Jon Bowers.
- Return of the U-class 1638: Photos from the Maunsell Locomotive Society, Andrew Strongitharm, Dave Clarke and Nick Beck and a video from Jon Bowers - 18-19 February 2006
- Latest developments around the Carriage and Wagon Dept from Dave Clarke - 12 February 2006
- U-class No.1638, has been out for another test run - John Sands - 9 February 2006
- John Sands detailed photos showing just what a superb job has been made of the No.16 points - 7 February 2006
- Dave Clarke has updated his fotopic site with a few photos including the new No.16 points, the new loco running shed wall and the newly
delivered outward opening guard's door for LCDR coach 114 - 5 February 2006
- Photos of train and replacement bus services, plus the reconstruction of the embankment towards Ardingly using spoil from Imberhorne, from Chris Dadson - 4 February 2006
- Videos from David Chappell showing the U-class No.1638 moving about at Sheffield Park - 3 February 2006
- Photos around Sheffield Park by John Sands - the completed shed wall brickwork, engineering work to the north of the station, and the U-class test steamings - 2 February 2006.
- Paul Pettitt's Winter Steam 2006
pages.
- Photos illustrating the outstationing of Locos 65 and 96 at Horsted Keynes during the engineering works, and Victorian weekend services are on Dave Clarke's fotopic site - 29 January 2006
- North-end point replacement at Sheffield Park (8 photos) plus one showing the O1 on the Victorian Train Service from Chris Dadson - 28 January 2006
- Photos by John Sands showing Fenchurch shunting at Sheffield Park, and No.75027 undergoing a steam test, as well as engineering work under way to replace the points at the north end of Sheffield Park station - 24 and 26 January 2006
- Photos of overhaul of LCDR coach 114 and of the cutting excavation and cleaned Imberhorne Viaduct from Dave Clarke - 23 January 2006
- Photos from David Pratt showing the loco shed wall, atlantic shed, and repaint of Loco "Stowe" - 19 January 2006
- Photos of Normandy shunting at Sheffield Park, from John Sands - 19 January 2006
- Recent photos from Chris Ward
- Photos taken over New Year and 14 Jan, from Tom Waghorn.
- Updated photo album from Andrew Strongitharm
- Several new photo albums from Nick Beck.
Web-site Update Archive 2006
30 December 2006:
29 December:
- The first DVD (right) in a new series is now available from the Bluebell Shop: Bluebell Newsreel - The Bluebell Years was filmed in 2006 by Rail TV with the full support of the railway, and is presented as their first look at the railway. Simon Farmer tells the history of the line and Jennifer Johnston introduces two of the larger locomotives - 75027 and The Earl of Berkeley.
There is a bonus feature on Normandy on one of her last turns before she was retired from traffic and a railway architecture feature on England's second largest brick masonary structure - the Chappel Viaduct.
- Photos from yesterday's Vintage New Year trains from Sean Tompsett
- New feature: Aerial Photos of the Line from 1940s, made available by the Geography Resource Centre, University of Sussex.
- Shaun McCann is in the process of setting up a new website on which he intends to chronicle as many, if not all, of the
UK's Heritage Railways as he can. We are promised that the Bluebell will feature strongly! There's also a forum.
28 December:
24 December:
- Reminder that, between December 26th and January 1st, we have our Vintage New Year trains - an hourly service from 11am to 4 pm using two sets of vintage and Victorian carriages, and two of our older locomotives. Your chance to travel in steam-heated comfort in the Metropolitan coaches, the newly restored LCDR brake coach, or the two LBSCR first-class carriages.
(Note: The 473 Bus does not run on Boxing Day, and also note that Christmas Day is the one day of the year when the Railway is closed!)
- Bluebell News magazine is with the printers, and should be available very early in January.
22 December:
21 December:
20 December:
- Photo collections from Dave Clarke showing:
- Santa Specials arriving at, and departing from, Horsted Keynes last weekend, the Sunday morning sunrise over the railway from Highbrook (one of which is seen here) and Sir Archibald Sinclair in the works at Sheffield Park;
- A new collection which will record the overhaul of the S15 (847) and also covers the U class 1638;
- A photo showing the mouldings on the northwest corner of LSWR carriage No.1520. Once everything has been aligned they will be fitted permanently. The four compartments have had their first coats of chrome buff (undercoat for grain paint) on the walls and white undercoat on the ceilings.
18 December:
16 December:
15 December:
14 December:
- Successful test run today for Metropolitan carriage No.412. It enters service on the Victorian Christmas Train on 21st December. The photo shows the coach at Kingscote half way through the test run. More photos here.
13 December:
- A significant milestone has been reached on the extension to East Grinstead; all of the spoil to the south of Imberhorne Lane bridge has now been cleared. This spoil came from the widening of the old railway cutting in East Grinstead in the 1970s to form the "Beeching Way" town-centre by-pass. This inert spoil has now been removed, by rail, to Horsted Keynes.
Chris Dadson's photos illustrate the now clear cutting - the photo on the right is one of them.
We have all the permissions in place which are required to remove the contents of the old council tip, which fills the cutting to the north of the bridge. We are just now awaiting the transfer of ownership of the council land which includes the tip; this is the last piece in the jigsaw required before fund-raising for the removal of the main tip and completion of the extension can commence.
- Details now available of the December 26th to January 1st Vintage New Year trains.
- Photo updates from Dave Clarke:
12 December:
11 December:
- Dates and preliminary details available for 2007 Special Events.
- Andrew Strongitharm has put together an album showing rolling stock, including ones taken following the re-launch of Pullman Car 64 ("Christine"). The photo on the right shows "Christine" in use on 9th December.
- Andrew has also added photos taken on Saturday, including several of Eddystone, to his Recent Photos album.
- Further update from Peter Richards to the Signalling Bell Codes page.
- Minor correction to the Loco Roster.
9 December:
7 December:
5 December:
4 December:
2 December:
30 November:
28 November:
25 November:
- A visit to Thames Tunnel and Brunel Museum, Rotherhithe has been organised by the BRPS London Area Group for Saturday 24 March 2007 - Details of this visit are available at group meetings.
21 November:
19 November:
18 November:
- Jon Bowers has provided a page of photos and videos from yesterday's Somerset & Dorset themed photo charter. Jon comments "Although at times the wind was so strong it was difficult to hold
the camera still, we got the better of the weather in the end!" An example of what proved possible between the rain showers is shown on the right.
- Another reminder that this coming week is an engineering week on the track. Proposed work is re-sleepering at Sheffield Park, some work on Freshfield Bank (rail and sleepers) plus work around the Leamland Bridge area. More details here. Free lunch if working by 09.00. Meet on Monday at Horsted Keynes Pway hut at 08.20, and Tues-Fri at Sheffield Park, though this could change depending on how work progresses through the week.
17 November:
- The one train running at the Terrier Gala which hasn't until now featured here is the Standard 4 tank, No.80151 (running as 80154) with the four SR-designed Bulleid coaches.
The photo on the right is from David Chappell, taken on Sunday 12th November.
The significance of running the loco as 80154 is two-fold. Firstly it was the last engine built at Brighton Works, where all the Terriers, and the E4 were also built. It was also one of the very last engines to run over the Bluebell line on the day it closed in 1958.
- Photos from this evening's night shoot at Horsted
Keynes with locos 75027 and 34028 "Eddystone" from Tony Pearce
- Chris Dadson has a few photos showing today's photo charter in operation.
- Update to News of Operation Undercover. Following a recent meeting with the HLF, we were asked to appoint external consultants to carry out a full review of the design and costs
estimates of the building and to produce a timetable and project management
scheme to complete stage 2. After seeking competitive tenders for the review, Atkins have been appointed and start work today.
- Photos of Terriers from Friday 10th November from Margaret Easter.
- Scans of slides taken at previous Bluebell events from Brian Easter, arranged by pre-nationalisation company.
- City of Truro left Sheffield Park this morning, ending its visit to the Bluebell.
16 November:
- Another great set of photos from Tuesday's Photo Charter with Martello and the Metropolitan coaches from Chris Nevard.
The photo on the right, from the charter, is by Tony Pearce.
- A substantial photo gallery of the Saturday of the Terrier Gala from Owen Chapman
- Reminder of the Members' Film Show and Forum - this Saturday at Oathall Community College, Appledore Gardens, Lindfield.
15 November:
14 November:
13 November:
- Photos of today, including the 5-terrier line-up, from:
- More photos from the earlier days of the Terrier Gala:
- YouTube Videos of the Terrier Gala from Chris Ward
12 November:
11 November:
- Photos from today (the second day of the Terrier Gala) from
It occured to me, as I watched the procession of trains coming through Horsted Keynes today that every single one of the carriages making up the four trains was of pre-BR design, and that the majority were actually pre-grouping!
- Photos from yesterday (the first day of the Terrier Gala) from
- Photo gallery update from Chris Dadson on 7th November, showing spoil
excavation to the south of Imberhorne Lane, which is noticeably nearing
completion, while the 'triangle' at Horsted Keynes is beginning to
show signs of filling-up.
- Photos of Giants of Steam from Richard Thomas
10 November:
- Locomotive Number 3 "Bodiam"
We regret that due to a serious crack on the cylinder cover of the above locomotive, it has not been possible to repair in time for its planned visit to the Bluebell Railway and participation in the weekend's events.
The Kent and East Sussex Railway have undertaken many hours trying to rectify a repair on the locomotive, but regret time has overtaken events - it had been hoped that it would arrive today if repairs were completed yesterday.
We are very sorry "Bodiam" is unable to appear but hope this will not spoil your visit to the Bluebell Railway where five other Terriers are still in operation.
- Consequent updates to various other pages relating to the visit. Freshwater added to the Operational Locos page.
- Update to the Loco Roster - we should have 8 locos in steam on Saturday and Sunday.
- Six photos from Chris Dadson, showing the operation of the wheelchair lift, and the interior of the vehicle, added to the page for Mk.I coach 5034
- Update to the contacts page, with new editorial address for Bluebell News
6 November:
5 November:
- London Chatham and Dover Railway coach No.114, built in 1889, which ended its days on hop pickers special trains in 1925, and then spent the next 50 years in a bungalow, returned to service yesterday. In the morning there was a special train for the volunteers involved in the restoration, representatives from the Bluebell Railway, and the Bluebell Railway Trust (which had funded the cost of the materials used in the restoration) and with specials guests, the Mayors of East Grinstead and Haywards Heath. In the evening there was another run, for the railway's volunteers, again behind "Terrier" No.55 Stepney, and with LBSCR coach No.661 to complete the train. The photo on the right from Jon Bowers shows the re-launch special.
The coach will be in public service for the first time during the forthcoming Terrier Gala.
- Consequent update to the Carriage Stock List, the web page for LCDR coach No.114, and the Carriage & Wagon works news, including a report and more photos of the return to traffic.
- Nick Beck has also provided a gallery of photos of the day's events.
- Photos taken by Rob Faulkner showing progress in the overhaul of the C-class as of today's Loco Works Group working day (the page for which is also updated)
- Dave Jefferys has made some photos from the last couple of weeks available.
- Photos from the Wizards Weekend from Nick Beck
3 November:
- Is it a Gala tomorrow? No, but we do have 5 steam locos out and about on the line: LBSCR Terriers 55 Stepney and 672 Fenchurch, SECR O1-class 65, SR U-class 1638 and BR 4MT 80151! And then the Vintage Bus Running day on Sunday, with probably four steam locos in use.
- Ever thought you'd like to join a Photo Charter? Here's your opportunity - an S&D recreation with 75027 and 34028 on Friday 17 November. Full details here.
- The Annual Steyning Railway Evening run by Steyning Adult Education Centre - Friday 10th November - Archive film, interviews with men who worked on the line, new material including a completely new look at the line using latest computer technology, plus a preview trailer of the forthcoming 'Bluebell Railway: Lost And Found' DVD. More details.
2 November:
31 October:
- Update to the web page for Pullman Car No.64, correcting the information about where the coach was built (which had been taken from an erroneous entry in one of the reference books on Pullman coaches!) Also includes a photo of one of its worksplates.
- New link to Stephen Parker's photos of a day out on the Bluebell Railway in 1963.
- All first-class compartments on the Victorian Christmas train on 21st December have now been sold, and the remaining third-class compartments on the 2.40pm train that day are booking fast. The other two days are already completely sold out - book now or wait for next year!
30 October:
- Update to the Accommodation near the Railway page, adding an interactive map showing the locations of the various entries on the page, and adding Southover Cottage in Chiltington.
29 October:
27 October:
25 October:
23 October:
- Further photos from the weekend's Giants of Steam event, from Tom Waghorn and Christopher Ward. Tom's photos also include the use of the hand crane to lift the SR Queen Mary bogie brake van in the carriage yard, to allow access for welding, which is one of the last items required to be done to complete this vehicle's restoration.
All photographic and video reports from Giants of Steam are now linked from a page reporting the event.
- Update from Gary Smith, showing the current positions in our fund-raising Football Competition.
22 October:
- Photos taken today (the rather damp second day of Giants of Steam) from Ashley Smith
- Photos from yesterday (the first day of Giants of Steam) from
20 October:
- Update to the Loco Roster from Lewis Nodes. In addition, it appears that Eddystone will be in light steam at Sheffield Park over the forthcoming Giants of Steam weekend.
19 October:
18 October:
17 October:
- Details now available for the Wizard Weekend - All kinds of mysterious happenings around the
railway. Sat 28 - Sun 29 October
- Details now available for the Vintage Bus Running Day on Sun 5 November - Vintage buses will be operating various routes to and from the Bluebell Railway
15 October:
- Photos from Nick Beck (including the one on the right) of tonight's night shoot with City of Truro and Earl of Berkeley.
- Update to the page for the visit of City of Truro, with photos from John Goss, Nick Beck, Tony Pearce and Jon Bowers.
- Photos of Friday's "City Limited" breakfast train from Daniel Crofton-Green.
- The Maunsell Loco Society have updated their latest news page, with a round-up of what they've been up to recently, including news of awards received for their restoration of the U-class No.1638.
- Update to the Locos Under Overhaul page, adding the Maunsell S15, which the Maunsell Locomotive Society have started to overhaul.
- Apologies for yesterday's brief problem with the front page of this web site and links from it. If you find it persists, you should refresh or reload the page, or use this link.
14 October:
12 October:
8 October:
- We apologise that due to a crack in the steam brake cylinder of City of Truro, it will not be in operation over the weekend of 7 & 8 October.
It is hoped that repairs can be undertaken in time for our Giants of Steam Weekend on the 21st & 22nd October.
- Update thanks to Gary Smith, showing the current positions in our fund-raising Football Competition.
5 October:
1 October:
29 September:
27 September:
- An additional "Victorian Christmas" train has been added, a 2.40pm service on Thursday 21st December. The Victorian Christmas trains on 23rd and 24th December are selling fast, with the first-class compartments already sold out!
- Photos from Chris Dadson showing City of Truro, still on its low loader today. Its tender has also now arrived. More details of its visit and steaming dates.
- Demand for tickets is high for City of Truro's extra 'The City Limited' Pullman Trains being run on Friday 6th October. The afternoon tea train is nearly fully booked, so why not visit us for traditional breakfast at 10.30am on board this extra special train. Advance booking essential - details here.
- Volunteer appeal for Autumn Engineering Work from Jon Bowers. Do come and join in, even only for a day or two: Monday 30 October to Friday 3 November and Monday 20 November to Friday 24 November - further details here - please get in touch in advance so that enough lunches can be provided each day.
- The web page for the 9F Club (our young volunteers' club) has been updated, along with revised club membership application forms. The club is so popular that there is currently a waiting list for new members!
- Note added to Giants of Steam details concerning engineering work affecting trains to East Grinstead that weekend - a replacement bus service from Three Bridges provides the best route to East Grinstead (and remember we have free vintage buses from Brighton to Sheffield Park on the Sunday).
- "Southern Steam" - An Evening of Railway Archival Film at East Grinstead Library - Thursday 12th October at 7.30pm - Tickets at £3.00 available from East Grinstead Library, 32-40 West Street, East Grinstead, RH19 1SR (Tel.01342 410050) - This event is organised by West Sussex County Council.
26 September:
- GWR locomotive City of Truro arrived at Sheffield Park at 4.10 this afternoon.
- Details of additional attractions added to the page for the forthcoming Giants of Steam gala. These include timetables of the enhanced 473 Bus service (including use of a vintage RML) and also a free vintage bus service from Brighton on the Sunday. Variety of trade stands, Mechanical Horse Club vehicles, and stationary engines.
- Photos from Rob Faulkner showing the working day on 17th September on No.592.
17 September:
- Details added to the Visit of City of Truro page for the Evening Photo shoot with City of Truro and Earl of Berkeley, which will take place from 6-8pm on 15th October under flood lights at Sheffield Park station, with the locos standing side by side.
14 September:
12 September:
11 September:
5 September:
2 September:
31 August:
25 August:
- Update to the BRPS London Area Group page, with details of the groups meetings from October to January, thanks to David Mark.
24 August:
19 August:
15 August:
14 August:
11 August:
10 August:
- Two documents for members added to the BRPS Notices page - notes from the July Committee meeting and an invitation to contribute suggestions for the next revision of the Long Term Plan.
9 August:
- Preliminary details now available for December's Santa Specials - booking opens on 2nd October.
- The next meeting of the Loco Workshop Working Group will be on Sunday (13th August) to work on the rapidly progressing C class overhaul. Meet at 9:30 in or around the loco yard or lobby.
- Update to details of how you could help with Publicising the Railway - an updated list of shows at which we hope to be represented is now available - many thanks to all the members who have already offered their assistance. An additional publicity stand is planned for the Royal Berkshire Show, Newbury over the weekend of 16th & 17th September and if anyone can assist with manning this or other publicity stands please do contact the General Office (telephone 01825 720800).
- Update to the Loco Roster from Lewis Nodes, indicating what locos we expect to have running during the August and September.
- New picture of the Month: No.9017 passing the open farmland at Town Place farm, and updates to pages for No.75027 (carrying wreath in memory of John Potter, former Chairman and Company Secretary) and for the SER O1 No.65 from Paul Pettitt.
- Updated link to information from Trainsimmers against Trespass: Stay safe on the Railways - Don't Trespass - Don't be another accident statistic
- New link to Cravens Heritage Trains.
- Steam on Southern Metals by George Marsh and Michael Webb, is available at the special price of £6.95 (plus 75p P&P) a saving
of £1 off the RRP. 10% from orders received via the Bluebell
website goes direct to the 32424 "Beachy Head" project. Payment should be made out to "Buggleskelly Books" and sent to:-
"Steam on Southern Metals", 22 Glassenbury Drive, Bexhill-on-Sea, E. Sussex, TN40 2NY.
Alternatively, it is available in the Bluebell Railway Shop.
1 August:
- Update to the Loco Roster from Lewis Nodes, indicating what locos we expect to have running during the next two weeks.
- One of Derek Hayward's Bluebell photos is the featured "Photo of the day" on Fotopic web site today.
- Derek has updated his own gallery with photos taken on Saturday: As well as the normal service trains, the Footplate Days and Ways Course was in progress, and the Haywards Heath Fire Brigade kindly provided another (unexpected) attraction for the visitors.
- Photos showing Sunday's activities by the volunteer team progressing the overhaul of the SECR C-class loco, from Rob Faulkner.
- Dave Clarke has updated his gallery with images of the SECR Birdcage brake's lift from its underframe, and work on LSWR coach 1520.
- Note from Gavin Bennett: Mike Salkeld passed away peacefully on Sunday 23rd July following a long fight with bone cancer. Funeral details, etc. in the BRPS Members' notices.
- Advance notice (and apologies) that the Bluebell web site will be unavailable for a period of up to 24 hours commencing 4pm on Friday 4th August. This is due to installation of a new mains power supply to our host's site.
27 July:
- As part of the national Heritage Open Days the Bluebell Railway planned to run conducted tours onto the viaduct at East Grinstead on Saturday 9 & Sunday 10 September - Note: Now Postponed until later date due to site access difficulties.
25 July:
21 July:
- We have added an extra Fish & Chip Evening Special on Fri 1st September - pre-booking essential - this extra date has been added due to all the other planned Fish & Chip evenings now being fully booked! To book please contact our customer services team, Tel: 01825 720800
20 July:
17 July:
14 July:
13 July:
11 July:
9 July:
7 July:
5 July:
3 July:
2 July:
1 July:
30 June:
- Further update to Carriage Restoration news, with details of the canvassing of the roof, and other restoration progress, on the LSWR brake third No.1520.
- Photo gallery showing what's been going on around the Railway in June, from Chris Ward. Includes the C-class, 80151 and Sir Archibald Sinclair in the loco workshop, the Ivatt tank returned to the Bluebell, and Birch Grove, which has emerged from the works.
29 June:
27 June:
- Advance purchase of tickets for the coming weekend's Day out with Thomas event are now only available in person from Horsted Keynes Booking Office, between 11am and 4pm each day, as we can not now guarantee tickets arriving by post in time.
25 June:
20 June:
19 June:
15 June:
13 June:
- Loco Availability paper - presented at the 2006 BRPS AGM by Lewis Nodes, Director and Trustee for Locomotives and Rolling Stock. A full analysis of the current and future challenges facing the railway in maintaining sufficient locos in working order. (The files are in pdf format - a free pdf reader is available from Adobe).
10 June:
8 June:
5 June:
1 June:
30 May:
- Photos from the weekend, including the Ivatt tank back for another spell on the Bluebell, from Derek Hayward.
- Details and entry forms available for the World Cup Football Competition - Entries must be in by Friday 9th June, so don't delay.
All you have to do is pick which team you think will win the World Cup. 50% of the competition entry monies will be put towards "Operation
Undercover" which is the project to build suitable housing for the Bluebell's
historic rolling stock, whilst the other 50% will be returned as
winnings to those lucky enough to select the winning and runner-up
teams. Thanks to Gary Smith and Peter Richards for organising this, and putting together the web pages.
- Photos from Rob Faulkner of Saturday's second Loco Workshop Working Group Day
29 May:
27 May:
26 May:
23 May:
22 May:
21 May:
20 May:
- Updated page for Day out with Thomas events in June/July, with details of Schools trains and Thomas' bedtime specials. Reminder that an advance booking discount is available until 31st May.
- The booking phone number for the music festival has a problem. As a result, bookings are now being taken on 01825 720831.
18 May:
- New web page for the Locomotive Workshop working group:
Following the success of the very first working day on 30th April the next two days have been organised for 27th May and 4th June. Includes details from David Pratt and Stephen Lacey of how to join in and help get the C-class back into service.
- Only a few seats left on 'The City Limited' Pullman Train on October 13th - Book now for breakfast or afternoon tea on board our luxury train, hauled by "City of Truro".
- New Bluebell-related photo site from Derek Hayward.
- On Tuesday, the Spoil Train was being operated by SECR O1 loco No.65. Photos from Chris Dadson. This is partly because the 08 diesel has problems, and partly because the O1 was being used for filming work.
- Update to the web page for Mk.I Carriage 5034 provided by Nick Beck and Martin Skrzetuszewski.
- Update to the Loco Roster from Lewis Nodes.
15 May:
14 May:
12 May:
- Fathers' Day Special on June 18th - a ploughman's lunch on board the 1pm train with a bottle of Pullman Beer included in the very reasonable price of £20 per person (including travel). For more information, or to book, please contact our Customer Services Team, Tel: 01825 720800 or e-mail
- Good news, Blackmoor Vale has been repaired and is back in use from this weekend! This means that the passenger trains will be hauled by three appropriate locos, for the "Southern at War" event.
- Photos and latest on the restoration of No.34059 from the Bulleid Society, along with an update and photos of 21C123 Blackmoor Vale.
- Update to the Loco Roster from Lewis Nodes.
- The status of C-class locomotive No.592 (webpage updated) has moved from "Static Display" to "Under Overhaul".
- 12 photos from around the yard at Sheffield Park from Chris Ward
11 May:
9 May:
- Reminder that the coming weekend see's the railway transported back to the 1940s, for the "Southern at War" event. Any customers turning up in war time or 1940's costume are entitled to travel at Members Rate. Trains run to the three-train Service 1A on
Saturday and 4-train Service 4 on Sunday.
- Further photos and videos of Terriers at the KESR:
21 December:
20 December:
13 December:
11 December:
4 December:
2 December:
28 November:
17 November:
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29 October:
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1 October:
27 September:
5 September:
