Part of the ongoing 'Resolution Dock' route started out as a short test track for tsNG trains. And is now occupying far too much of my time.
The South Weald Light Railway is the estate railway of Sir John Sutton (Bt), and primarily makes him money by transporting chalk from his pits to an exchange point with BR. Of late, he has also been operating tourist trains to a local beauty spot, located on his sprawling estate.
Wealden Pond is the terminus of the line, and the only twin platform station. Building by Ian Morgan, hedges by courtesy of Highworth!
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A line of empty chalk tipper awaits retrieval to the main pit. The tippler is out of sight, to the left.
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Our train, hauled by No 2 'Baldrick' passes SWLR No 1 with another train of chalk tippers at Peggotty's loop. Arthur Peggotty is the oddball CCE of the line, and resopnsible for all trackwork./
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The passenger train approaches the MPD, where SWLR No 3 awaits it's next turn of duty.
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The wagon contains stores, which will be left here. Much loco building and restoration goes on here, for other preserved lines, including the Carrick Island Railways.
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Further down the line, Baldrick passes the sheds of Wilson's Wagon Works - also prime contractors to the CIR. the Dogshead brewery and SER main line can be made out in the distance.
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This imposing viaduct was installed last night, and has yet to be named. Any suggestions?
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We've skipped Highdene station, as it's not very interesting at the moment, and the final station on the line is Sutton Gate - which uses the imposing Southwold station building by fadedGlory - very nice too!
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From here the line goes down a very steep hill, before returning to Wealden Pond via Peggotty's Loop once more.
I'm signalling at the moment. So look for more shots in the future!
Mike
