Archive for Freesteam For collectors and enthusiasts of all steam engines
|
Spokesmann
|
Amberley Steam WeekendThis was to be my second event in as many days. After Kempton the day before this event was totally different and totally enjoyable for so many similar and different reasons - the unique venue, the people and the chance to steam. It was different for me in that it took place within a large working museum complete with railway, working exhibits and a very large area! A real gem of west Sussex!
I left Teddington, London about 7.00 to give me plenty of time to arrive at Amberley by 8.30, the 50 mile drive was through some very pleasant countryside and I just love to see different buildings, towns and villages - so very different from where I live! After negotiating the one system of Kingston/Sutton/Surbiton and getting free of the built up area around London finding Amberley was very easy - just head south! I arrived at about 8.30 and telephoned Simon(MTA) - voice mail, so decided to look around for the are we had been allocated, after walking and driving around as well as asking various people, Simon rang and I quickly found the venue - Amberley is a big space and if you go you'll need a day to take it all in - at least!
After parking up and unloading it was a real pleasure to meet Alan, Will, Andy and Nick from the other forum as it was to meet everyone. The little waiting room we were was situated on the platform right next to the track, the area around is just lovely and alive with interest. With the on duty saddle tank 'Wendy' calling by during the day picking up and setting down passengers it was a truly delightful place to be, and the a very relaxed and enjoyable days steaming was had by all, with visitors coming in, in dribs and drabs it was just wonderful to talk and have a coffee or go for a wander in the this truly captivating place. Occasionally scale traction engines or steam wagons would trundle by, or the sound of Wendy's whistle would punctuate the quiet and calm atmosphere of the day...
I could not wish to be anywhere else on a day like yesterday (Sunday 21st) the sun was out, it was warm and quiet, with good company, a full mug of coffee and a comfy bench to watch things go by, I was a million miles from the everyday work and stress we all have to put up with (well most!), just like Kempton the day before a thoroughly rewarding day.
A big thank you to all who took part and took the time to talk and a big thank you to Simon for making things happen!
Highlights of my visit to Amberley must include the venue - captivating, I have never visited somewhere like this!, great countryside, great displays from all the chaps (and chapesses) involved and above all a feeling that you'll need to visit again!
A few images of my visit, sorry I did not get to go about so much as I was glued (by choice!) to our wonderful venue!
Part of Simon's display . . .
Inside the light filled waiting room...
My set up...
Wendy on duty...
Alan's IPJane
The lads try out the rolling road with their locos...
just a few of the other things to see...
Simon's Mersey 54...
|
newts
|
Another great setting for toy steam, looks like everybody had a good time with plenty of engines running.
|
MTA
|
Great pics Mike, and the videos in the other thread are equally as good!
I'm currently uploading mine, and am writing a report.
|
Spokesmann
|
| MTA wrote: | Great pics Mike, and the videos in the other thread are equally as good!
I'm currently uploading mine, and am writing a report. |
Thanks for the comments,I have more vids at Amberley, Ill post them tomorrow! they do take sometime to upload,I have been compiling the two threads throughout the day whilst doing other things as well.
|
John Chapman
|
Again, super photos Mike. I haven't been to Amberley since 1993, probably changed a bit since then 
|
Spokesmann
|
| John Chapman wrote: | | Again, super photos Mike. I haven't been to Amberley since 1993, probably changed a bit since then |
Well worth another visit John!
|
|