Stapleford Event a Success

Over the weekend of 13th - 14th June, the weather gods looked down on the Stapleford Miniature Railway, as the charity Stapleford Steam event got underway. The crowds came out and passenger numbers well up on previous years in spite of the recession. With 6 locos in steam at one point, the railway was running at capacity throughout both days, operating until a record 7pm on the Saturday evening to accommodate everyone!

The new 31 class Oil burning East African loco was pressed into service with vengeance from Saturday afternoon, after the lines LMS Jubilee loco, was failed on terminal repairs to the 30yr old boiler. Sadly, this has now put the loco out of action for at least a year or more until a new boiler an be manufactured and fitted

This however meant to the delight of enthusiasts, that the new 31class loco was in action over the weekend, much more than was initially planned,and also produced the unusual combination of the Curwen

Atlantic and GWR Saint class locos being paired for the

remaining weekend, rather than the usual 4-6-0’s double heading. The 2 smaller 4-6-0 locos having to double head the heavy 9 coach sets over the steeply graded line.

The next open date at the railway will be over the August BH weekend of Sunday and Monday 30th 31st August with entry at just £2 per car. Gates open 10am till tea time and weekend caravaning/camping is available. Full details on the Stapleford Miniature Railway website.

Also the railway is pleased to announce that Vintage trains will be running an all inclusive steam special from Birmingham to Melton with coach travel to our event, see the Vintage Trains website to book.

Thanks to Nigel Spencer for press release and Colin Peake for photographs.