South East Branch
Outdoor Visit
Mangapps Farm Railway 3rd. June 2007
35 members and friends were up early to join our coach at Folkestone and Ashford for the journey to Burnham-on-Crouch where they were joined by former branch secretary Eric Palmer. After a warm welcome by owner and RCTS member John Jolly and his staff of willing volunteers and once R O F No. 8, Barclay 0-4-0 Saddle Tank No. 2157 of 1943 had been decorated with the RCTS smokebox headboard a number of runs were made along the full length of the line including the branch siding. The photographers and video specialists were out in force although the weather was not of the best.
After sandwiches, picnics and other refreshments had been consumed guided tours of the works and yard took place with the opportunity to inspect most of the vehicles in parts or awaiting restoration including the most recent acquisition Class 47 no. 47 793. Also on view was "Minnie" the Fox Walker 0-6-0 Saddle Tank No. 358 of 1879. One of only three left in the world. "Brookfield" the big blue Bagnall 0-6-0 Pannier Tank No. 2613 of 1940 also was in view in the yard. The Mangapps Collection is full of interesting and unusual items such as the Southend Pier Railway converted works car. The museum was open and many members were lost for hours amongst the collection of memorabilia and the signalling enthusiasts in particular had a field day.
The visit concluded with a number of further trips up and down the line with R O F No. 8 working very hard to the enjoyment of the photographers. Before departing for our return to Kent. thanks were conveyed to John and his hard working volunteers and also to Mrs. Jolly for providing a continuous supply of tea, wonderful cakes and other refeshments througout the day.
Report,David Kelso. Images Andrew Humphreys & Geoffry Dunster.