A New Arrival

I have been far too busy to update fortnightly as hoped and to make matters worse, my laptop finally packed up and sits tucked away awaiting disposal or replacement hard drive. Of course, I was clever enough to back up all files first and have permission to use the other half's from time to time.

Anyway, I have digressed. Work has been minimal due to work and theatrical commitments, but I have managed to acquire and construct an ARC models Andrew Barclay 0-4-0ST. In a weekend I had built her around a Dapol pug chassis, but in such a way as to make servicing possible, but over the following 3 weeks have managed no more than one coat of paint a day. The loco is now ready for the paint to be tidied and have the lining applied. Then attention can turn to handrails and any other detail I can find, though an order will have to made to Markits for detail such as a whistle and smokebox dart.

Where does an industrial 0-4-0ST fit in with the Wrington Vale? Well the focus of the project will be the junction station (Congresbury) where the WVLR meets the preserved Cheddar Valley Railway. Since I have only done minor narrow gauge jobs lately (though the pile of Mark 1s on the desk since June have been almost cleared) I thought I would prove my continued existence with something a little different.

In other news, the first permanent way wagon is underway (but was buried behind Mark 1s soon after construction began), the next three coaches have had sides built (again, the Mark 1 thing...) and the Cyprus coach has been given seats and is virtually complete (but stored underneath Mark 1 parts that are held up by another Mark 1 and a Hornby Class 25...). The play I am rehearsing for is nearly ready for the stage, so I shall have more time again soon. We'll see where I am by Christmas!