Narrow Gauge – South Tynedale Railway

Narrow Gauge

South Tynedale Railway

South Tynedale Railway
Train departing Kirkhaugh on the South Tynedale Railway.
© Copyright Peter McDermott and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.
The South Tynedale Railway is England’s highest narrow gauge railway winding northwards from its home at Alston in Cumbria for 3½ miles into Northumberland and the current terminus at Lintley Halt, following the route of the former Alston to Haltwhistle branch line which officially closed on 1st May 1976.

The South Tynedale Railway Preservation Society became a registered charity in 1983, but has its roots in a group formed 1973 with the intention of purchasing and preserving the entire standard gauge railway. When funds could not be raised in time a decision was made to build a narrow gauge line along the old track bed using redundant mining equipment, with the aim of once again linking Alston with Haltwhistle by rail.“Helen Kathryn” seen outside the shed at Alston, is a 70 horse power, 0-4-0 tank, Riesa class locomotive, built in 1948 by Henschel & Sohn, of Kassel, Germany, works No. 28035.

With the announcement of a £4.2 million Heritage Lottery Fund grant as part of a £5.5 million development project 2014 marks the start of the next chapter in the history of the South Tynedale Railway and this historic line. This funding will allow us to complete the extension and take the railway back to Slaggyford, major repairs and renovations to the station buildings at Alston and much more besides.
Come and join us and take a leisurely ride through the glorious scenery of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty!

https://www.south-tynedale-railway.org.uk/

Local News – Lichfield, Chasewater and Mill Green

Local News

Beacon Park’s Easter trail

Hop down to Beacon Park this Easter to follow a special trail.
If you are looking for things to do with the little ones this Easter holiday, head to Beacon Park where you can follow an Easter Trail.
The colourful trail will lead children around the park, while finding and solving a series of puzzles.
Councillor Andy Smith, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure & Parks, said: “The trail is a great way to entertain children over the school holidays. It is also a good excuse to get out and about in the fresh air in the beautiful surroundings of Beacon Park. And, you never know, if you go down to Beacon Park on Saturday 12 April, you may well spot the Easter Bunny who will be launching the Easter trail!”

It costs £1 per child to follow the trail, and once they have spotted the clues they will each receive a small prize.
The Easter trails will be available from the Ranger Station (near the crazy golf course) in Beacon Park every day from 12 to 27 April, between 9am and 3.30pm.
“If you enjoy the Easter Trail, why not try two more trails available at Beacon Park? Our Swinfen Broun Trail gives children a brief history of Beacon Park and Minster Pool, while following a colourful trail to find eight brass rubbing plaques.
“Lichfield City Council also recently launched The Little City Tree Trail that leads visitors to 12 interesting trees across Lichfield Historic Parks to find out more about them and to do brass rubbings,” added Councillor Smith.
Both these trails are also available from Beacon Park’s Ranger Station.

Volunteering Day – Chasewater Innovation Centre

Date: 8th May 2014
Location: Chasewater Innovation Centre
Time: 10:00 – 15:30
Cost: Free
Volunteering Day – site preparation and clean up for a ‘special visitor’
All volunteering days commence at 10am. Most site leaders will be on site until 3:30 or until the task is complete. Volunteers are welcome to stay until the end but any time provided is gratefully appreciated. Please ensure you wear appropriate clothing and footwear and bring a packed lunch if you intend to stay after lunch.
Volunteer Leader: Jane Rodd
For more information contact Emma Beaman at the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on 01785 619186 or email emma.beaman@staffordshire.gov.uk

Volunteering Day – Spring Clean Up

Mill Green Park, Cannock
Creative Commons Licence [Some Rights Reserved] © Copyright Geoff Pick and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.

Date: 24th Apr 2014
Location: Mill Green
Time: 10:00 – 15:30
Cost: Free
Volunteering Day
All volunteering days commence at 10am. Most site leaders will be on site until 3:30 or until the task is complete. Volunteers are welcome to stay until the end but any time provided is gratefully appreciated. Please ensure you wear appropriate clothing and footwear and bring a packed lunch if you intend to stay after lunch.
Volunteer Leader: Simon Siddle
For more information contact Emma Beaman at the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on 01785 619186 or email emma.beaman@staffordshire.gov.uk