traindriver35's video: Lynton and Barnstaple Railway Autumn Gala 2021 Hunslet 303 1215 Chelfham Station Restoration Steam

It was wonderful to be back at the railway after the hiatus of the last eighteen months. In August 2020, we sadly lost our resident artist Eric Leslie. His artwork has become an integral part of our railway's image and feeling. The picture used at the beginning of the film is available as a print from Woody Bay or our on-line shop. Along with a selection of L&B books, Christmas Cards and next year's calendar lynton-rail.co.uk Visiting us this year was Hunslet locomotive 1215 in its original War Department livery. She has a very interesting history and is certainly well travelled. A potted history is shown in the caption. She was also a great pairing for our own loco 'Axe', built a year apart and for exactly the same purpose, to take supplies to the front line during the First World War. We were pleased to welcome North Devon MP, Selaine Saxby, who waved off the second train (9:29) The highlight of the weekend for me however was to finally see the results of many years hard work by the small team of volunteers at Chelfham Station. (19:43) Earlier this year the 1950's residential extension to the station building was finally removed to fully reveal the work that had been going on. Followed in recent months by reinstatement of the up platform and restored signal cabin to its original position and very recently, the replica up & down starter signal posts and signals. Just a few days before the gala the up starter signal was wired up for operation. With all the added details, the team have created a charming little station with I could feel is already gaining an atmosphere of a country station. Well done all involved. The place is crying out for the railway to be reinstated more than ever. There have been some important property purchases during the last year. Bratton Fleming station was purchased by our fellow organisation Exmoor Associates and also the bungalow that occupies the site of Parracombe Halt. Both these properties are occupied so please do not disturb.