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‍Kent & East Sussex Railway

Members e-newsletter No.73

‍Welcome to the latest edition of the K&ESR's e-newsletter

‍‍From the Finance Director

It isn’t very often that I pen anything for the Newsletter, but in Simon’s absence I can give you an update on our finances. They have been a challenge to oversee since COVID, with income not keeping pace with skyrocketing prices, but with some handily timed grants and with the commercial team doing everything they can to fill our bank accounts, I am happy to say that, we are doing “OK”, and, like I have always promised, we will survive. As this year progresses, I have become more confident that we will have more than sufficient cash to start the 2024 season. Our busiest month, August will be the litmus test, and our marketing is aimed at filling those seats.

The Accounts team give me a daily update of our cash holdings & because I don’t like nasty surprises, I vet all purchase orders over £500, on a daily basis. Every penny that we save is vital, and every extra penny earned to budget is very welcome. The management team, to their credit, have kept ordering to a minimum, and managed their spending wisely.

I have a firm grip on expenditure, and as a result we have managed to invest over £80,000 in Northiam Level crossing. We will continue to invest in Locos 25 and 65. We need them for Christmas – and of course Carriage and Wagon are outshopping quality rolling stock – Petros being a fine example.

‍I realize that despite our investments, we continue to fall behind in some areas, but there is only one pot of cash, and we prioritize our needs. When we have an unexpected windfall, I try and divert it to projects which need to be finished, or urgent works identified by the Project Assessment committee.

All of our people have got stuck in and without them (you!), we would be amongst the Railways who find themselves in trouble.

Our business model, created in the 1980s is out of date and will be replaced as soon as is practical. We must widen our income streams, taking advantage of all of our assets, & incorporating different ideas. This is a work in progress.

Geoff Crouch

Finance Director

‍‍‍From the General Manager

Introducing the Future of the Kent & East Sussex Railway

I have been in my role for coming up to a year so appropriate that I would provide everyone with my thoughts and how I see the future, it is a long read and there is important information at the end of this piece.

It has been both an honour and privilege of serving as your General Manager. In my ten months in this role, I have learned so much about the railway, its challenges, and the incredible opportunities that lie ahead. It's been a whirlwind of wearing multiple hats, from being a facilitator and day-to-day manager to a strategist to a carriage cleaner. It has taken all my diverse range of skill and knowledge and more to lead this railway, and I'm committed to moving us forward.

Facilitator

As a facilitator, I've come to understand the vital role our volunteers play in keeping the railway running smoothly. With around 500 dedicated active volunteers and 2,500 members, I work closely with them to match their skills and interests with suitable tasks. This not only ensures their motivation and engagement but also maximises their impact. Providing the necessary training and support is equally important, as it allows our volunteers to perform their roles safely and effectively.

Day-to-Day

Beyond facilitation, I have embraced my role as the day-to-day manager. From ensuring the safety of passengers and staff to managing our finances, marketing the railway to attract visitors, and building strong relationships within the local community, there's never been a dull moment. It's a tremendous responsibility, but one that brings great fulfilment. Preserving this piece of history and seeing it come alive is a true privilege.

Strategist

As a strategist, I'm always focused on our long-term sustainability. It's essential to explore new revenue streams, invest in infrastructure, and reduce our environmental impact. Thinking strategically and preparing for the challenges that lie ahead is key to our success. I am committed to making the Kent and East Sussex Railway a resilient and forward-thinking organisation.

Amidst the challenges, there is incredible joy in this dream job. Working closely with our volunteers, witnessing the railway's vibrancy, making a difference and seeing the joy on our young visitors' faces fills me with immense pride.

Rich Legacy

As the General Manager, one of my greatest responsibilities is preserving the rich legacy of this historic railway. Every day, I am reminded of the weight that rests on my shoulders, knowing that the future of this cherished institution depends on good stewardship.

The railway holds a special place in the hearts of locals and enthusiasts alike. It represents a bygone era, a time when steam locomotives traversed the picturesque Kent and East Sussex countryside, connecting communities and carrying the dreams of a so many. It is my duty to ensure that this heritage remains intact, that the stories embedded within these tracks continue to captivate the imaginations of future generations.

Preserving the legacy is not a task taken lightly. It requires meticulous planning, dedicated maintenance, and unwavering attention to detail. From the restoration of historic locomotives to the maintenance of track infrastructure, every decision I make has far-reaching consequences for the railway's authenticity and long-term viability.

Beyond the physical elements, I am also responsible for fostering a sense of pride and ownership among the staff and volunteers who breathe life into the K&ESR. They are the custodians of its history, the torchbearers of its spirit. Nurturing their passion, providing training and support, and empowering them to carry out their roles with excellence is essential in preserving the railway's legacy.

However, challenges abound. The passage of time brings with it inevitable wear and tear, requiring continuous investment and strategic planning to ensure the railway remains safe and operational. Securing funding, engaging with stakeholders, and navigating the complexities of heritage regulations are constant battles that must be fought with unwavering determination.

As the General Manager, I am acutely aware that the responsibility of preserving the legacy extends far beyond the boundaries of the railway itself. It encompasses the surrounding communities, the local economy, and the broader heritage railway industry. Collaborating with like-minded organisations, seeking innovative partnerships, and advocating for the importance of heritage railways are integral to our collective success.

The weight of responsibility is both a burden and a privilege. It is a constant reminder of the importance of our mission and the impact we have on the lives of those who experience the magic of the K&ESR. Each day presents new challenges, but I am driven by the unwavering belief that with careful stewardship and a passionate team, we can ensure that this beloved heritage railway continues to weave its story through the fabric of time.

But we face challenges, and change is on the horizon. It's now time to embrace a new path, one that ensures our survival and propels us toward a brighter future. But make no mistake, this won't happen by accident or by sticking to the "same old, same old." We must be ready to step up, adapt, and attract new volunteers who share our passion.

The world around us is evolving rapidly, and we must evolve with it. We can't remain trapped in the past, running the same services year after year. We must be agile, responsive, and willing to challenge the status quo. It's time to break the cycle and forge a new path that secures the legacy of the KESR for generations to come.

To achieve this, we need a plan - a plan that sets us apart, inspires confidence, and drives us toward success. Our plan centres on four key pillars: embracing change, attracting new volunteers, enhancing the visitor experience, and fostering community engagement.

First and foremost, we must embrace change. We can no longer rely on old ways and outdated thinking. We need fresh ideas, innovative approaches, and the courage to step into the unknown. Let us harness the power of technology, adapt our operations, and explore new opportunities that align with our rich history and heritage.

But change cannot happen without the dedicated efforts of our team. We need more people to step up and join us on this journey. We must find ways to attract new volunteers who bring diverse skills and perspectives. Together, we can build a stronger and more capable team, ready to tackle the challenges ahead and seize the opportunities that lie before us.

To thrive in the ever-changing landscape, we must enhance the visitor experience. We will paint a vivid picture of progress by transforming our stations into vibrant and inviting spaces. With improved amenities, engaging activities, and captivating storytelling, we will create reasons for visitors to dwell and immerse themselves in our unique offerings. Let us captivate their hearts and leave them with lasting memories.

But above all, we must remember that the K&ESR is more than just a railway - it is a community. We will forge strong connections and build credibility by giving every individual a voice. Inclusivity will be our foundation, and active engagement will be our mantra. Together, we will shape our shared vision and celebrate the contributions of each and every member of our team.

The future is in our hands. Let us have the confidence to go forward with determination, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to preserving and strengthening the legacy of the K&ESR. Change is upon us, but it is change that will breathe new life into our railway and ensure its place in the hearts of generations to come.

As we embark on this journey of change and progress, let us take a moment to reflect on the remarkable achievements that our team has accomplished since only last August. It is through the collective efforts and unwavering dedication of each member that we have seen positive transformations and moments of triumph. Here are just a few highlights that showcase the incredible work taking place on the Kent and East Sussex Railway:

• Successful Visit of Bulleid Pacific '257 Squadron': We welcomed the iconic Bulleid Pacific locomotive, '257 Squadron,' to our railway, captivating visitors and showcasing our commitment to preserving railway heritage.

• Memorable Events and Educational Initiatives: We organised a fantastic 1940s event that transported visitors back in time and engaged local school children through immersive evacuation days. These initiatives not only entertained but also educated, fostering a deeper appreciation for our history.

• Festive Fun Despite Challenging Weather: In the face of arctic weather conditions, we successfully operated all the Santa trains, bringing joy to families and creating cherished memories during the holiday season.

• Engineering Excellence and Leadership: We celebrated our true engineering superstars at Rolvenden, whose exceptional skills and leadership have propelled us forward. Their dedication and expertise have been invaluable to our success.
• Progress on the GWR Railcar: Work finally began in earnest on the restoration of the GWR Railcar, surpassing our fundraising target. This project showcases our commitment to preserving historical treasures and expanding our offerings.
• Early Planning for Future Success: Looking ahead to 2024, we have already started planning, ensuring that Santa tickets are on sale earlier than ever before. By being proactive, we set the stage for even more successful events and experiences.
• Extensive Media Coverage and Social Media Reach: Our railway has gained extensive media coverage in various railway magazines, local radio, and television. Furthermore, our social media presence has reached over 1.5 million views in just three months, amplifying our message and attracting new audiences.
• Steam Up Gala: Despite limited locomotives available, we organized a highly successful Steam Up gala, showcasing the passion and resilience of our team.
• Volunteer Safety: We prioritised safety by dismissing a problematic volunteer, ensuring a safer environment for all, particularly our young volunteers.

Additionally, we were thrilled to learn of the recent approval of the Transport Works Act Order for the extension of the railway from Bodiam to Robertsbridge. This exciting development opens a whole host of opportunities for us, allowing us to expand our reach, attract new visitors, and connect with even more communities along the route. The Robertsbridge extension will not only enhance the appeal of our railway, but also unlock new economic and tourism prospects for the region. We eagerly anticipate the positive impact this expansion will have on our operations and the endless possibilities it brings to the future of the Kent and East Sussex Railway.

These achievements are a testament to our collective commitment, passion, and determination. As we move forward, let us build upon these successes, leveraging them as steppingstones toward an even brighter future.

Moving forward

In moving forward there is the crucial aspect of giving people a voice and building credibility within the management team of the K&ESR. I recognise the importance of reinvigorating an overworked, under resourced team, restoring faith and belief, and providing everyone with a sense of direction and purpose. By drawing inspiration from the innovative approach of my mentor Chris Green, I am exploring ways to make a visible impact and demonstrate that positive change is taking place. We must discuss the significance of setting a clear vision, establishing a unique selling proposition (USP) for each station, and enhancing the everyday experiences of visitors. Additionally, we must explore the power of storytelling and the need to create compelling reasons for visitors to dwell and engage with the railway.

Giving People a Voice: A need to emphasise the importance of creating a culture of inclusivity and actively involving both managers and volunteers in decision-making processes. By valuing their input and insights, we can harness their expertise and inspire a renewed sense of ownership and pride in the railway.

Building Credibility: To rebuild credibility, we must discuss the need for transparency, open communication, and strong leadership. By fostering trust and providing regular updates on progress, the management team can regain the confidence of the workforce and volunteers.

Painting the Picture of Progress: Drawing inspiration from Chris Green's red lamppost initiative, we must explore creative ways to make a visible impact and signal that positive change is happening. Whether through physical enhancements, improved signage, or notable improvements, we must highlight the importance of demonstrating tangible progress to instil confidence and excitement among stakeholders.

Setting a Clear Vision: We must define a clear and inspiring future vision for the K&ESR. By stating as a Charity our aspirations, goals, and values, we provide a framework for managers, volunteers, and staff to align their efforts and understand how they contribute to the bigger picture.

Unique Selling Proposition for each station: We must emphasise the need to identify and capitalise on the unique characteristics and offerings of each station along the railway. By creating a distinct USP for each location, we can attract visitors with diverse interests and provide them with a compelling reason to explore and engage with the railway.

Enhancing Everyday Experiences: We must explore ways to improve the everyday experiences of visitors by focusing on areas such as customer service, amenities, and operational efficiency. By paying attention to the small details and constantly seeking opportunities for improvement, we can create memorable experiences that exceed visitor expectations.

The Power of Storytelling: I recognize the significance of storytelling in connecting people to the railway's rich history and heritage. By effectively sharing the railway's story through various channels, including interpretive displays, guided tours, and digital platforms, we can create a sense of intrigue, inspire emotional connections, and deepen visitor engagement.

Creating Reasons to Dwell: We must explore strategies to transform the railway into a destination where visitors are encouraged to spend more time. By offering engaging activities, events, and experiences, we can foster a sense of community, attract repeat visits, and generate positive word-of-mouth.

‍Actions not just words

In our relentless pursuit of generating income and securing our future, we are implementing a series of initiatives that place a strong emphasis on selling, selling, selling. We recognise the potential of the corporate market and will actively engage with large organisations to establish mutually beneficial partnerships. We will position the railway as a valuable training resource, an ideal venue for corporate social responsibility activities, and a unique space for corporate entertainment, whether it be in our family saloon, Pullman carriages, or as rewards for staff. We will continue to nurture and develop our relationship with Fox and Edwards, leveraging their expertise to attract more passengers and generate additional revenue.

To explore new avenues for income generation, we will promote the railway as an attractive location for film productions, captivating audiences with enchanting stories for children. Furthermore, we will investigate innovative non-train experiences, such as hosting theatrical productions in the "town square" space in front of the Buffet at Tenterden. Recognising the potential of the cycling market, we will create bike storage space on the train, either by running a dedicated box van or modifying the parcels compartment of a Mark 1 brake coach, tapping into an untapped market segment.

To cater to the desires of our visitors, we will offer on-the-day footplate experiences, providing an exciting opportunity to get up close and personal with a steam or diesel locomotive. We will repackage the RXD footplate experience, basing it at Northiam to further enhance accessibility. Our 2024 timetable will be carefully developed to introduce an improved short travel offer, allowing passengers to explore the scenic beauty of Northiam or travel to Junction Road.

Understanding the interest and passion of steam, we will showcase the enchanting sight of Marcia gracefully running up and down in Tenterden Station, providing visitors with an immersive steam experience, particularly during hot weather. Simultaneously, we will dust off our plans and update them for the development of each station, ensuring they are primed for major grant applications. Lastly, we will establish a comprehensive and cohesive Marketing Plan that sets all these initiatives within a strategic framework, amplifying our message and captivating audiences far and wide.

Looking to the future, I am therefore filled with excitement for the K&ESR. We have ambitious plans, including expanding our line, and developing environmental and educational programmes. I firmly believe in the bright future that awaits us. We are a unique asset, deeply valued by the community, and I am dedicated to ensuring our continued growth and success for years to come. 

Robin Coombes

General Manager 

‍‍Tuesday Group

The coming weeks/months will be mainly focused on improving the appearance of Northiam Station to our customers. Work has begun on painting and ‘refurbishing’ the canopies and pillars. The big project will be the replacement of the fascia boards and finials on the road facing side of the station block. This will require knowledge, manpower and guile to remove the old wood, reinforce the supporting timbers and fix the new materials.

The last and on-going job will be to work with our two gardening ladies to ensure the box hedges and garden areas look at their best.

Steve Bunn

Tuesday Group

‍Railcar W20 Update

Progress continues.

There was plenty of interest in the vehicle by visitors at the end of May ‘Steam-up’ weekend.

The underfloor (Buffalo Board) has now also been completed throughout the entire vehicle.

The north-side of the railcar has received another coat of green undercoat, much improving its appearance and providing a sound base for future paint….whatever colour that turns out to be!

More sanding and smoothing of the panel screw-head filler has been undertaken to get these as invisible as possible.

A damp-proof lining has been applied to the interior walls prior to the panelling being covered in Rexine and re-fitted.

The moquette has been delivered so that the seats can be sent away for re-upholstering.

More work has been undertaken on wiring the junction box within the vehicle’s frames and cabs.

The Headcorn-end jumpers have been wired up (the Bodiam-end was done several years ago). This has been reinstated mainly for authenticity BUT may be very useful if W20 ever gets to meet W22… assuming they do the jumper wiring too!)

Work progresses under the vehicle making vacuum-pipe connections. (Very uncomfortable and arduous work in the current hot weather.)

Chris Mileman 

W20 Group

Wednesday Working Group 

‍At last our skip arrived so that we could start operation tidy up around the back of the office area. This was done with great zeal and we filled the skip to the top.

Continued painting toilet block as well as garden timbers on platform garden and handrails.,extended the tanking up line towards the signal box so that toilet could be used.

All picnic tables put back in picnic area after CAMRA festival, red trolley repair completed (thanks to 4253), another small hose put in entrance garden for the gardening group.

All recyclable and catalogued wood moved to Wittersham Road store, small entrance gate to station bound as a temporary repair after a recent traffic incident. 

John Holland

Volunteer

‍Occasional Volunteer Hosts for The Bodiam Coach

We wish to recruit a small team of volunteers who - working on a roster - would act as occasional hosts for guests staying in the coach during  the 2023  season.

• Presenting the accommodation for guest arrival. (The cleaning will have already been done by our domestic team),
• Briefing guests about the workings of the coach infrastructure, fire and railway  safety procedures,
• Advising guests of local facilities, and how best to access the products and services of Kent and East Sussex Railway,
• Being available by telephone ( in case of an emergency ) as the first point of contact for the duration of guest stay,

Most of our guests are couples over the age of 40 who are very self-sufficient, so the role is largely a pleasant social experience of meeting new people, which takes up little time. However hosts need to be within an easy driving distance (15 mins) of Bodiam station.

Full support and mentoring will be provided. 

Expressions of interest or to explore the role further, please contact Bryan Atkins via bodiamcoach@gmail.com

Bryan Atkins

‍Situations Vacant

Casual Hospitality Assistants

We are currently seeking Hospitality Assistants to undertake a variety of duties, working in our Gift Shops, Catering outlets or traveling onboard our trains to provide an at-seat service selling a wide range of gifts, souvenirs, food, drinks and alcohol. Training to nationally recognised standards is available. We are famed for our warm & friendly staff, so to find out more about how you could be a frontline ambassador for the K&ESR, visit https://kesr.org.uk/vacancies/hospitality-assistants/ or email catering@kesr.org.uk

‍Volunteer Pullman Attendants

We have vacancies for Pullman Attendants (waiters) and Bar Stewards on Saturday evening and Sunday Lunch Wealden Pullman services. There's full training available, so the only requirement is that you'd like to enjoy meeting and working with a great team of people! To experience our lovely new kitchen carriage first hand, contact Meg Gooch mgooch@kesr.org.uk

Newsletter Archive

Have you missed a newsletter? Have you recently joined us? Whatever the reason, you can browse recent editions of this newsletter at https://kesr.org.uk/members-e-newsletter-archive/

Tenterden Terrier Online

As a member of the K&ESR, you can receive notification when ‘The Tenterden Terrier’ magazine is published online by registering your details at

https://kesr.org.uk/tenterden-terrier-online/

‍All editions of ‘The Tenterden Terrier’ are now available to view or download from our website: to access this fascinating archive, click on the image above or visit https://kesr.org.uk/terrier/

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There are no catches or hidden charges and we’re really grateful for your donations.

‍Kent & East Sussex Railway

Tenterden Town Station, Station Road,

Tenterden, Kent TN30 6HE

www.kesr.org.uk

Registered charity 262481

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