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‍Kent & East Sussex Railway

Members e-newsletter No.76

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

‍‍From the Chairman

A recent highlight was the visit on 15th September by the All Party Parliamentary Group on Heritage Rail. In the end, as is often the way with politicians, we had three members of the House of Lords and one MP. Others cried off at the last moment, and Southeastern cancellations made journeys difficult. But other important stakeholders were present, and we had some useful discussions.

We laid on a superbly cooked and served Pullman lunch, which impressed our guests no end. It just goes to show that we can do this kind of thing, and many thanks are due to all those who contributed. We are a Railway with a reputation for making a memorable day out, and increasingly we have friends in high places.

Our public face is good. But I am very aware of the stresses and strains beneath the surface as we strive to deliver, and these do seem more pronounced at present. For a Railway with ambitions, we are under-resourced, and this isn’t just about money. Nor is the position likely to change. So, what do we do? We continue to grapple with the issues, but solid solutions continue to be elusive. And solutions that appeal to everyone even more so.

There is however money in the bank, and we shall manage our way through the very challenging landscape.

Many of you will have heard of the sad death of David Stratton, a larger than life character who played a key part in navigating the Railway through the nerve-wracking period at the turn of the century when we very nearly went bankrupt. Thank you, David, for your huge contribution at this time.

Another loss has been Gordon Laming, a Permanent Way volunteer from the early, pre-opening, days. He is immortalised in the section of line near Rolvenden known as Laming’s Slip, where in the early 1970s he led the work to stabilise a bank that was collapsing onto the railway. One of the pioneers from the Heroic Age.

Both David and Gordon contributed in very different ways, and they are typical of the range of skills we continue to need in today’s world.

Talking of today’s world, we are currently looking for a new Chair for the Project Assessment Committee. This committee was set up at the start of 2021 to provide governance and structure around the money we invest in our Railway. Since then it has reviewed and recommended for Board approval expenditure for activities in Infrastructure, Safety, Permanent Way, Commercial, Carriage & Wagon and Loco, all of which have improved our railway and the way in which we operate.

Like all new committees, the PAC has evolved and adapted to fit with the needs of the railway, and with its processes and methodology now firmly established, the existing chair has decided to focus on other activities at the railway, which means we need someone to pick up the reins.

The committee meets once a month via Zoom for 90 minutes to review progress on existing projects and consider new business cases. The role of the chair, in addition to the admin related to the monthly meeting (agenda preparation, minute taking and distribution, etc) is to liaise with the General Manager, the Finance Committee and the Fundraising Working Party to understand the 'pipeline' from potential new initiatives via funding opportunities to board approval.

If you would be interested in taking on the role of PAC chair, and in so doing playing a part at the centre of things, please send a brief summary of your skills and experience to me via smarsh@kesr.org.uk

Simon Marsh

Chairman 

‍4253 Locomotive Group

While we await the return of the boiler from HBSS in Liverpool, we have been concentrating on getting the rods ready for installation. This has(is) a time-consuming task with spherical ball couplings either being difficult to fit, or ‘challenging’! On Sunday 17th September it took all day just to get one inserted and operating correctly. Obviously, the future goal is to have all eight rods installed before the boiler returns.

We are again assisting the Locomotive Shed staff with the refurbishment of Charwelton. At the moment we are concentrating on the water tank, with the repositioning of the filler hole to comply with working at height requirements. The filler hole has had a blank welded in and a new hole cut in the front end of the tank top. Also the tank has received a rub down, filler applied, and the first undercoat applied. Looking forward, the new filler lid and ring will be fitted and the tank will receive a topcoat finish.

‍Our volunteers are also refurbishing the sheet metal rollers. Currently they are getting a rub down and repaint and in the near future, our electrician will look at the old operating system to see how it can be improved to modern standards.

Kelvin Williams

4253 Group

Tuesday Working Group

‍The refurbishment of the station notice board at the entrance nearly refurbished and will hopefully be back in situ by the time this is published. That leaves the completion of the lamp post in the picnic garden to be finished (Cherry Picker required for the last bit). As always, the emphasis is on making the station as presentable as possible to our customers.

Steve Bunn

Tuesday Group "Social Media Manager "

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‍Tenterden Business Networking

‍At the end of September we hosted the first Local Business Networking meeting - a new venture bringing local business together so they can meet, chat and share ideas: in the hope of bringing more customers to every business.

A huge thank you to everyone who came along, we look forward to hosting the next one soon. 

‍Sad News...

Following news of the death of Sir Michael Gambon at the end of September we were reminded that we were lucky enough to welcome this actor and Harry Potter legend to to our wonderful Railway in September 2019. 

During his visit Rolvenden Fitter Liam Head recalls "I was lucky enough to spend the afternoon with Michael Gambon, drinking tea and talking about his apprenticeship at the Royal Arsenal before he became Involved with acting.

He even had a little machine shop, at home, with a small Butler shaper"

A supporter of Heritage Railways he will be missed.

‍General Manager

September Highlights

September has been a month of extraordinary experiences on the K&ESR. From hosting VIPs to witnessing the skills and dedication of our volunteers and enjoying the magic of our Real Ale Train, it's been a month to remember.

All-Party Parliamentary Group Visit

As Simon mentioned at the start of this newsletter, the sun graced us with its presence as we proudly hosted the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Heritage Rail (APPGHR) during their annual visit. A prestigious group, including Rail Minister Huw Merriman, Lords, Members of Parliament, and local councillors, graced us with their presence.

Our guests were treated to the wonders of the Wealden Pullman, set against the beautiful backdrop of the Kent and East Sussex countryside. The day was filled with lively conversations, the birth of new ideas, and a spirit of camaraderie. Meg and Jo's culinary masterpieces added a delicious dimension to the experience, while Kevin and his team ensured that the Pullman service was nothing short of perfection.

Let's not forget, it takes a team working together to make days like this a success. From engine crews to station staff, train planners to signalmen, and many more behind-the-scenes heroes, our success is a testament to that whole team approach.

The day also included visits to Bodiam and Rolvenden, where we witnessed preparations for the Hop Festival and the remarkable work happening in the locomotive department. It's a reminder of what we can achieve together.

‍Locomotive Milestones

September saw Austerity No. 25 undergoing tests, flexing its power double heading with Sapper. Meanwhile, the Class 14 diesel D9504, looking like it just rolled out of Swindon works, was also out on test. Swiftsure successfully passed its boiler inspection and mechanical exam. Progress on Yank Tank No. 65 continues with the fitting of main steam pipes. 

Embracing the Heatwave: A September Surprise

September arrived with an unexpected twist – a heatwave that bathed the Railway in brilliant sunshine. The scorching sun brought a unique vibrancy to our railway, casting a warm, golden hue across the verdant countryside. Passengers enjoyed the rare opportunity to bask in the sun while taking in the stunning views that our railway route has to offer. It was a chance to savour the beautiful landscapes and relish in the idyllic moments that the Indian Summer gifted us.

‍Hopfest at Bodiam Station: A Celebration of our rich Hop Heritage

September was a month of festivities and one event that truly stood out was the Hopfest held at Bodiam station. This was a celebration that encapsulated the very essence of our rich hop heritage, paying tribute to a tradition deeply rooted in the heart of our community.

The Bodiam station team deserves immense applause for their relentless hard work in bringing this event to life. Their dedication was nothing short of remarkable. Among their many accomplishments was the creation of a pop-up bar, ingeniously set up inside one of our railway vans. It was a delightful addition, providing guests with a taste of local brews amidst the historic charm of our station.

Hop enthusiasts and curious visitors had the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the history of hop garlands. Marking hop garlands by hand was not only an art but also a tradition that spoke volumes about the craft that goes into creating some of the areas finest beverages. Attendees could witness the tools used by hop pickers in days gone by and explore the huts they once called home during the hop-picking season.

‍One of the highlights of Hopfest was the opportunity to buy local produce, including honey harvested from the station's very own bee hives. It was a sweet reminder of the diversity of offerings that our railway and its surrounding community bring to the table.

For the younger attendees, there was no shortage of entertainment. Kids could enjoy the thrill of classic fairground attractions, including the swing boat and the ever-popular coconut shy. These simple yet timeless games added a touch of nostalgia and whimsy to the event.

‍Inspiring Junior Engineers: Shaping the Future of Rail

A further September event was our Junior Engineering Day, an initiative aimed at inspiring the engineers of tomorrow. It's a day where we open our doors to the young minds eager to explore the world of steam and steel.

For these children, it's a rare chance to get their hands dirty, to hold a lump of coal, and to gain a hands-on understanding of concepts like pressure, weight, and mass. Our volunteers, who are passionate about sharing their knowledge, play a crucial role in making these events possible. They give up their time to spark curiosity and ignite the imaginations of these young enthusiasts.

The Junior Engineering Day isn't just about nurturing future engineers; it's a celebration of the rich heritage and the intricate mechanics that define our railway. It's about passing down the torch of knowledge and ensuring that the legacy of steam engineering lives on.

This event reminds us of the importance of education and inspiration, ensuring that the magic of steam continues to capture the hearts and minds of generations to come. l shape.

Overall in September, we once again proved that it's not just a railway; it's a family and community, a heritage, and an unforgettable journey through time and space. We look forward to the adventures that lie ahead and the memories yet to be made. Thank you to everyone who made September such a remarkable month.

Robin Coombes

General Manager

‍Bodiam Group

‍Taking advantage of periods of dry weather the group has continued to maintain the gardens and flower displays to the usual high standard. The paint on the platform lamp posts has been refreshed and new poster cases installed to publicise future events. Decaying sleepers on top of the cattle dock wall have also been replaced. The cisterns in the ladies’ toilets have been giving problems and Brian Richards, with help from a plumbing expert from the Wednesday Group, put in place temporary solutions. More permanent replacements will be needed during the closed season.

The main event has, of course, been the Hoppers weekend and several members of the group worked hard on the Friday to prepare the site as well as dressing the station. Attractions this year included swing boats and a coconut shy as well as food and a new bar in the green PMV. Several former hop pickers attended on the Saturday and were able to share their experiences. Hop garlands were also available for sale and proved very popular. Volunteers also talked to visitors about hops and hopping. Sadly the weather on the Sunday took a turn for the worse and this limited the success of some of the activities although the Morris dancers managed to perform briefly.

For the future we will need to repaint the walls of the station building, as weather allows, and hopefully a bid to repair/replace sash windows will be successful. Funds allowing, the refinement of the new sewage system to by-pass the old septic tank will eliminate the smells that currently haunt the station and will allow the new system to work effectively. If S&T agree we will repair/replace the backing boards to the STOP signs beside the track and a more permanent solution to the ladies’ toilet problems will need to be put in place.

Malcolm Burgess

‍Bodiam Vacancy

There is a thriving colony of bees in a hive at Bodiam Station

Is there anybody avaible and in a position to take it on this important role?

All you need is to be willing to learn and available to attend Bodiam, full training will be given.  To find out more, please contact Ian Sharp via email to iansharp45@outlook.com

‍‍Railcar W20 Update

 The progress continues:

• Heavy duty cable runs, in new flexible stainless-steel conduit, are now 80% complete with terminations and bus-bars manufactured and installed for battery, starter motor and dynamos.
• Guard/driver bell-code wiring installed.
• Capping for internal lighting-run fitted
  
• Driver’s control unit installed in Robertsbridge-end cab.
• Headcorn end driver’s controller refurbished and returned to site.
• Much work on fabricating and fitting of the Headcorn-end sheet metal has been undertaken.
• The seat cushions and moquette have been collected by our contractor ready for refurbishing and re-upholstering.
• A ‘simple’ restoration of the driver’s seats was commenced. Expected to take a man-day, this has stretched into nearer four, as the elevating mechanisms were seized and proved a devil to free up!! All are now working!

Many thanks to the two lady volunteers who have offered to help with the curtains, following last month’s appeal. We shall all get together soon to see what’s what. (The curtain rails are nearly all in place). No response to the ‘scumbling’ support request though. Surely there must be someone… somewhere??

‍‍Santa Specials 2023

Our popular Santa Specials will soon be upon us - and your help is needed! There are a huge number and range of tasks required to ensure we deliver these services to the very highest quality. If you're able to help in any way, either on running days (2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 22,23 & 24 December) or for midweek preparation, contact Heather Packham in the first instance hpackham@kesr.org.uk

‍‍Rother Valley Limited

Some members may recall that our Sunday Lunch services, when first introduced, were undertaken aboard the 'A' set scheduled service trains, before subsequently moving into the Wealden Pullman.

With the entry into service of the new Wealden Pullman Kitchen Car in March, 'Diana' moved into the 'A' set formation for the season, enabling an increased range of on-train catering services to be trialled.

Following the last 'Fox & Edwards' Ploughmans and Cream Tea service on 1st October, 'Diana' was withdrawn from service pending her overhaul, scheduled for the winter closure. It is worth noting that 'Diana' entered K&ESR service back in 1981 and has remained in service almost continuously through those 42 years - a remarkable achievement that has facilitated a very important source of income.

Our 2024 season will feature a significantly increased range of on-train catering offers, under the revived 'Rother Valley Limited' branding, using Restaurant Car 'Diana' (in 'blood & custard' livery). There will be many opportunities to get involved with this exciting development, both front of house & behind the scenes - contact Sean Webb for further information swebb@kesr.org.uk

Sean Webb

Hospitality Supervisor

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BOOK THE DATE

Saturday 4th November 2023 

St Mildred's Church, Tenterden

The Annual General Meetings of the following K&ESR companies:-

• Tenterden Railway Company Limited at 10.30am
• Colonel Stephens Railway Enterprises Limited at 11.00am
• Robertsbridge 20/20 Limited at 11.30am
• 6619 Limited at 12.00pm
• Kent and East Sussex Railway Company Limited at 1.30pm.

More details are available on the KESR website and by email from the Company Secretary: JCobbett@kesr.org.uk

THE DAY WILL CONCLUDE WITH BONFIRE NIGHT FIREWORKS FOR MEMBERS AT TENTERDEN STATION

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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‍Kent & East Sussex Railway

Tenterden Town Station, Station Road,

Tenterden, Kent TN30 6HE

www.kesr.org.uk

Registered charity 262481

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