Early October saw preparation for and the running of the third and final Freight Driving Experience of the year a quick repaint on the south sides of the two MOD open wagons to eliminate the ‘patches’ around the signwriting. They were rubbed down and painted in fresh Bauxite. Replacement label boards fitted to vans missing them as well as checking and oiling the rake ready for the experience.

On the 14th October, using diesel traction in the form of Class 45 ‘Peak’ 45041 “Royal Tank Regiment”. Once again we were able to run with our longest rake to date consisting of 2 brake vans, 4 hoppers, 4 opens, and 5 vans.

In late October the Wagon Group took up the invitation to join Quorn Wagon & Wagon for their Open Weekend, alongside wagon groups from various other railways (Bluebell, Mid-Hants, National Wagon Preservation Group and the GCR Windcutters). This is hoped to be the starting point for a cross-railway wagon community where we can all share information and expertise.

On to early November and it was all about brake blocks. The replacement of all 16 brake blocks on British Railways Standard 20ton Brake Van B954024. The session finished in the dark with tools packed away and the old blocks in the scrap skip to help raise funds for the railway.

November also saw a trip to Newcastle to strip the interior fittings from a grounded BR Fruit Van. This was completion of a project to collect parts to re-create this type of vehicle.

Following Newcastle it was on to Durham to collect some rubber tyres and then on to York to pick up some lorry side curtains for van roofs. Which were unloaded and a new label board fitted to B777633.

December saw BR Van B768248 move to Peterborough for repairs and it was also a good opportunity to test the new brake blocks on B954024.

The rubber tyres mentioned above are for Tim’s Christmas Present. A Scammell Scarab and trailer.

The Scarab (mechanical horse) is ex-Cadbury and originally purple with white lettering. It is a runner, but requires full restoration. Work has already begun to source authentic parts and restoration will begin in the new year.

The trailer is ex-British Railways and has been moved to the Great Central Railway for my friends at the Quorn Wagon and Wagon Group to borrow for a period of time. In return they are restoring it and restoration is well underway.

Both vehicles will eventually be turned out in British Railways crimson and cream livery with the trailer receiving a Cadbury’s advert as a nod to the past history of the Scarab.

December also saw the usual Christmas break as we prepared for 2023 and its oppertunities.