Chairman's Chatter Home

February 07

The Dinner was very successful and thanks go to Mick once again for his organising. For those not there, the Peter James Trophy, this year, went to Bob Buckland for his superb Barry Railway Locos and rolling stock, most of which is scratch built. I was also able to announce that, by popular choice of the members, Maurie was to receive honorary membership to the club for the future and that his services as treasurer and his modelling were to be recognised by the presentation of a tankard. 

OO gauge Matters 

Much work has been carried out on the signals and mock-ups of suitable buildings and structures are appearing to finalise the landscaping at the end of the layout. 

EM gauge Matters 

Other matters have reduced the opportunity for much work on the layout, but detailing of the road approach to the station has begun. 

O gauge Matters 

Abbotstone’s appearance at the Southampton show (and on TV!) went well and experience gained once again to enable a few 
tweaks and improvements to be made to ease the burden of running the trains! Most attention will be paid to the fiddle yard where the panel has been amended to show route setting and the point switches changed and repositioned in lever-frame style. (Would anyone like 4 rotary switches?!!) Whilst I was hoping to tackle the major improvements to Itchen Bottom’s wiring in one long hit, I accept that this may be a step too far at this time. The more reliable ‘tortoise’ motor is replacing several of the point motors and 
this will enable running to commence shortly. The major rewire is not cancelled, just postponed. 

Other Business 

Summer Party date 30^th June with the McAlpine’s visit booked for 12^th August.