National preservation Narrow Gauge Railway moment of the year

Bear in mind the loco arrived on the line straight out of the Flour Mill literally a few days before the Gala with NO shaking down having been done, the crews had to get used to an unfamiliar loco too - so I think it's a bit early to judge.

Andrew C (this time with W&LLR hat on...)

 

Chevallier was distinctively "off-beat" at the time of that video, but to be fair I understand that the valve gear had to be set up in difficult circumstances without having enough 2ft 6in track at the Flour Mill to revolve the driving wheels; they got it much closer than most people could in that situation. Also SLR85 has a Lempor exhaust (she used to have quite an impressive bark 20 years ago) and 'Chav' has a basic un-tuned 'old school' blastpipe.

The axlebox issue has been much discussed on the W&L egroup. The original Manning Wardle axleboxes were stolen from Whipsnade shed in 1979 and the replacements were of a very basic specification with huge amounts of sideplay in order to cope with the Zoo's sharp curves. It is easy to forget the whole idea of Chevallier's visit was to run her to discover these issues and I understand the Flour Mill are now busy sorting her out. As for the future, I have no idea what her owner has planned.

Best wishes,
Gareth H.

 

I hasten to add that I was making no criticism of the overhaul. Incidentally 85 used to perform con brio even with her previous draughting arrangements. The principal problem is that she tended to set fire to the scenery!

Paul H.

 

Despite her short term problems, I have to say that I really enjoyed the trip behind her on the Gala day. A very handsome loco which once sorted would be an asset to any line.
JdF

 

The Lawley from Sandstone on the front of the NG15 on the Avontuur Branch

 

My hi-light of the narrow gauge year has to be LYDs visit to Woody Bay it was the best belated birthday present I have had.

 

For me, it was firstly LYD in all her glorious black parked-up in the middle of Barnstaple on a low-loader (thanks to all for that!).
Followed by the privilege of being appointed Site Controller for the three days of the L&B Autumn Gala 2010 - fabulous fun!
Martin Andrews