Giles and Diane Favell

101/4" gauge Miniature Railways


Evesham Vale Light Railway GALA


If anyone wishes to reproduce any of these, would they please ask me first. G.F.

GALA - Saturday and Sunday 3rd and 4th July 2004


EVESHAM VALE LIGHT RAILWAY 15"

This weekend Jim and Helen Shackle produced the railways' first steam Gala. Visiting locos included 'Ursula', the spectacular Haywood replica, 'Red Dragon' and Simon Townsends Cagney, together with the resident locos 'Prince William'and 'Saint Egwin'.

It made for a fascinating and enjoyable day (because the line is relatively short, there is always something coming or going....) for both normal passengers and the most ardent enthusiasts. There were also some visiting miniature traction engines (4" scale), Aidan's 7 1/4" line, and a few 'trade' stands, including the very talented Jonathan Clay (Railway artist) one of who's pictures adorns our front room!

I understand that the organisation necessary was considerable (and effective) but I just hope all the hard work won't put Jim and Helen off doing it again next year!

The Evesham Vale is a most welcoming and enjoyable railway, and well worth a visit - even if there isn't a Gala on at the time (they usually run two engines in steam anyway....)

The very impressive 'Prince William' running round

Aidan's 7 1/4" Midge was giving rides to add a bit of contrast....

The beautiful 'URSULA' - the Haywood Replica, coming off the turn-table

'Prince William' again - she started life as a 'Black 5', but suffered steaming problems, and was rebuilt in the form of a Pacific

Not a miniature locomotive, this....

A glimpse of her unique pivoting axles...

Cylinders and drain-cocks

'Ursula's steam driven air pump (for brakes)

Her very unusual motion (driving pivoted wheels is quite complicated....)

Some of 'Ursula's authentic replica stock (note the more contemporary seat belts though..)

'Prince William' returning with a full train

A close up of Simon Townsend's Cagney 4-4-0

even closer...

In 15" gauge terms, the Cagney is minute....

Front drivers

Detail of 'Red Dragon's bogie

Steve Bell's wonderful Exmoor built 'Saint Egwin' leaves with her train

Red Dragon

The Cagney and 'Red Dragon' leaving shed

The resident Lister fitted with air braking





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