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CHAIRMANS REMARKS As
an introduction to 2008 may I take this opportunity to welcome you to a potentially
very busy year for the Society. Our celebration weekend in July is now but
a few months away and we can look forward to what promises to be an exciting
and unique event in the history of the Society as well as key birthdays for
both Winnie and Kirtley. In addition with Midge only just ‘born’ our
celebrations have yet another facet. Over
the last 12 months a number of significant projects have been undertaken
including most recently redecoration of the The
last few months have seen a number of competent drivers achieve link status
and add to the dwindling numbers of those capable of passenger hauling. It is expected that additional tests will
be conducted for further candidates prior to our first public running day
which this year will be just after Easter – at the end of March. A
more extensive programme of driver training, customer service, first aid and
other courses will be run in 2008 ensuring that we can enjoy our chosen hobby
yet maintain our position of being accident-free with happy customers. Our
saddest news in November was the need to take out of service Bonnie Lass due
to a failed boiler inspection. A
number of weeps were identified and the boiler has already been carefully
removed for cleaning prior to a full examination. At the time of going to print there will
have been a decision made as to whether the boiler is recoverable or needs to
be replaced. Having taken advantage of
the lack of boiler a thorough inspection of the running gear and frames has
also shown significant wear in the rear axleboxes –
another task to be undertaken. To
finish on a positive note I wish to thank all members of the Society who have
provided support in the last 12 months, in particular those who have worked
hard on a regular basis to make 2007 the success it has been – despite the
weather. Thank you all – and please
continue with your support in 2008. Happy
modelling Dave
Underwood |
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