“Don’t sit under the apple tree with anyone else but me…” seemed to be the national anthem for the SVR’s 1940s event this year. As indeed it was last year. Happily I was able to avoid that by going trackside again to make a film for your (and my own) enjoyment. An event that will certainly go down in history for a multitude of reasons.
To start with… ‘Lady of Legend’. Having arrived to the railway for an extended stay just before the first forties weekend at the end of June, she really wasn’t in good health. Gentle nursing didn’t help her in setting fire to the lineside several times causing delays of over an hour on the Saturday. Repairs were carried out during the week but then come the morning of Saturday 6th… she’s pronounced dead. Stanier Mogul therefore took her place leaving 7714 to take over for 13268. The pannier had only conducted a light engine run thy day before after heavy repairs. That said she sang her little heart out both days. Without a doubt the star of the show.
Secondly… the great British weather. Saturday started off extremely wet and then became dry (ish). Sunday was… you guessed it! the reverse. With hail at lunchtime. That said we still had a wonderful array of actors and people in costume so well done to them (and everyone else) for braving the weather. Must be that Blitz spirit everyone keeps talking about.
Amongst all the fun and games and memories shared, there was a serious element to this event. World War Two was a dark time undoubtedly and claimed many casualties and victims: men, women and children alike. As such on the Sunday there was a memorial service to those who have given their lives for our freedom, both past and present. You may also have noticed the wreath carried on 75069. That is to mark all those who have passed away within the railway recently, namely John Price senior and Keith Hall to name but two. It’s to their memory that we dedicate our efforts.
This is possibly the most enjoyable film I’ve made because it feels like old times. Up until fairly recently SVR services would have four or five steam locomotives running each day with engines swapping at lunchtime. Now because of cost (both in coal and other resources) endeavours have been scaled back but not the enthusiasm. For such precedent, I did not film D1062 when it ran on the Saturday. It was a sacrifice I was more than happy to make.
Thanks also to George of SVRSteam for his company and expertise on the Sunday. Please do check out his channel and keep your eyes peeled as we shall be out together again for the Vintage Extravaganza Weekend in August. And possibly the Welshpool Gala sometime soon…
Exams are now done and college has ended so This is Your Life shall return at some point. For now I’ll let the locos do the talking. Until next time, mind how you go.
Thanks very much for watching.
Cheers, stay safe and stay tuned!
- Alex.