Peak Rail Turntable Opening

PETE WATERMAN – TO OFFICIALLY OPEN PEAK RAIL’S TURNTABLE SATURDAY 1ST MAY 2010

Wednesday 24th March 2010 saw yet another mile stone in the history of Peak Rail as the newly refurbished ex-Mold Junction turntable was successfully load tested (static load) using Peak Class Diesel locomotive D8 Penyghent.

Following this a dynamic test was carried out using diesel locomotive 37152 this locomotive being turned by hand and then using the vacuum motor fitted to the turntable, this test was also successfully completed and the turntable has now been passed for operational use.

Built by Cowans Sheldon (60’ diameter) and installed at Mold Junction shed during March 1937, as part of the LMS shed modernisation plan following the appointment of William Stanier as Chef Mechanical Engineer.

As Stainer produced new designs of locomotives) Black 5’s, 8F, Royal Scot, Jubilee etc) larger diameter turntables where required at Motive Power Depots throughout the LMS system. Mold Junction shed was closed in April 1966 following the withdrawal of steam traction on the North Wales Coast route. The turntable was removed direct from Mold in 1987 and initially stored at Buxton, refurbishment taking place at Darley Dale and Rowsley.

This now gives train operating companies the benefit of being able to turn locomotives once the connection at Matlock has been re-instated. Members, volunteers and the public will be able to witness at first hand this magnificent achievement on the 1st and 2nd May at our Steamy Special Weekend.

A tremendous vote of thanks must go to Dr Allan Wirth, Derek Ankers, John Weatherill, Peter Molloy, John Doran, John Screeves, Paul Wainwright, and Robin Westwood plus many others for all the hard work and dedication to see this vast project through to the end. A special thanks to Peter Bradnam from Tecroc Products Ltd for supplying a vast amount of the materials.


Event Schedule
A special passenger timetable hauled by 48624 (facing north) will be in operation on Saturday 1st May with the first train departing Rowsley South at 10.15am

Pete Waterman will officially open the turntable with 48624 taking the honours at approximately 11.15am

Passenger services will recommence with the 12.30pm departure from Rowsley South with 48624 now facing south. Throughout the rest of the day a variety of diesel locomotives including a selection from the Heritage Shunters Trust will be available to be photographed on the turntable.

Furthermore enthusiasts will be treated to a special photographic opportunity on the Saturday evening with 48624 hauling a selection of mixed freight, starting from Rowsley South Station at 7.00pm.

Sunday sees 48624 hauling all passenger trains, the first train departing Rowsley South at 11.15am, with diesel locomotives taking to the turntable for that special photographic shot.

Special fares will apply to both days. For further information contact Peak Rail on 01629 580381 or visit www.peakrail.co.uk


Dr Tom Tait
Press and Media Director