Today at Badlesmere we held a loco clinic and bring and buy sale and so on arrival the circuit was quickly set up as were a couple of tables for display of the goods on offer. Doug then ran one of the longest trains we have possibly ever had on the circuit with a Class 33 Diesel pulling seven MK1 coaches and two NPCSs all resplendent in Network South East livery and almost literally chasing its own tail.
Among those providing clinical assistance were Tim and Roger giving attention to Sean’s Dapol Class 08 Diesel. Unfortunately, they were unable to deal with the problem of the broken connection between one of the wheels and a connecting rod and this will have to be resolved with the manufacturer. David Ho worked on a battery powered diesel shunter and having now identified the problem (a faulty electrical connection) will rectify it at home. John P ran his GWR 14XX on the circuit where it had previously struggled on the curves. The rear wheels have now been eased to allow greater flexibility and this time the loco ran beautifully around the circuit. John B ran a Connoisseur Kits Industrial 0-4-0 Industrial Tank engine, and I ran my recently acquired SECR C Class now repainted in the full Wainwright. John M brought in a Midland 4-4-0 and another loco he’d been working on and Bill brought in a box of old magazines that were quickly taken out and read.
Unfortunately, the bring and buy was more bring than buy but still there were some bargains to be had and money was seen to change hands. So, another enjoyable afternoon at Badlesmere with our charwallah David Ho keeping us all supplied with teas and coffees as usual. Chris
