New Years Flugel

1st January 2008

We must thank Sir Colin for this edition. He it was that offered to take me to spend some time at Ferrymead on the first of the running days for the new year..........................

It will be remembered that this view down the line past Moorhouse signal box was clear to the horizon. So sadly, this view has been defiled by the appearance of a new building in the distance.

The 2ft gauge society are well in operation, having obtained their license at the end of last year.

Three familiar faces and two ducks. Sir Colin, Alison (Guard and shunter both for the day) and Dave Newman, driver. I didn't get the names of the ducks.

No point in firing up a steam locomotive for the light patronage. Tr 156 did the duties. Seen at the Ferrymead Station platform. Colin is talking to Dave Gorton, stationmaster.

The Stationmasters Office at the Moorhouse Station has a new look. The Rail Museum of New Zealand has taken over and is a vending outlet for souvenirs. This is the domain of the guy I call the Flying Scotsman, ie. Ian MacDonald.

The diagonally opposite view. Much money changes hands here I'm told. Ian does a roaring trade in a wide variety of cap badges.

In the morning, we were inundated with Boy Scouts, seen here about to descend on us.

The cafeteria in Moorhouse station. James Gobbe and Colin await their turn.

Having eaten, Colin and I went out on the 'island' to get a couple of shots. Not very often we see Tr156 doing the honours.

This one especially for my good friend Andy Selfe. That's 'his' Castle Rock up there by the back of the cab.

The new level crossing in use. Traffic is surprising here and a car is seen waiting on the left. This crossing is very well done and has been very largely the product of our guru in these matters, Rachel Tucker.

There you have it. I am not sure when the next issue will be at this time, but I will get back into the restoration game, hopefully before too long. Happy new year all. 'K'