[Chris_A]

Hi all.
I have begun this thread to keep you all updated on the progress of the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway in Derbyshire. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to ask and I will try to answer them. Todays progress is as follows

Probably over 60 people at various locations along our enterprise with a mind numbing variety of tasks being undertaken. The Dream Steam Team washed the boiler of No3 out in preparation for a visit by the Boiler Inspector to conduct his annual internal examination. The LMS Carriage Association encouraged 8 people to join them today with the fixing of veneer panels achieved and the repair of the flooring in the lobby's. The Pass Com, or communication cord, was deemed to be operational although a small amount of pipework is necessary to complete the project. Special thanks to Graham Walker who used his expertise to bring the project to near conclusion.

At Duffield the PWT completed he boxing in of the stone delivered over the past two weeks and the platform project benefited by the application of the "MOT Type 1" and broken concrete supplied allowing for the construction of the stabilising back wall by the application of metal angle iron at the north end.

The VCT reported a team of seven that achieved two fires, six loads of brash transported, two chainsaws in operation and, in addition to work at Duffield, a further 200 yards opened up around milepost 134.

Deep in Wirksworth yard the BSK had paint applied to the Guards brake area and some measuring done for future repairs while the nearby temporary steam shed finally had the roof panels placed. Yet more ballast was delivered for transport on Thursday.

The Booking Hall was in action processing the first of the on line bookings for the opening and brought the process up to date.

It is exhausting keeping up with the sheer endeavour and determination to meet deadlines in time for our long awaited opening.
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Dear all

A day without glamour but mundane and very essential tasks being undertaken with the PWT straightening some 50 sleepers south of Shottle. This job is related to the planned visit of a tamper that will line and level the track. Unless the sleepers are exactly 90 degrees to the rail and properly spaced the tamper will not work correctly and could damage the timbers.

The steelwork that will complete the troughing at the north end of the Duffield platform was installed and work will continue tomorrow on the installation of the remaining tactiles. Fred, Iris and Dorothy further deep cleaned the Buffet Car and sparkled up the Mess Hall. This unseen and often unappreciated work is vital to the overall presentation of our enterprise particularly after a Tuesday when nobody seems capable of washing their own pots and plates!

The Works Train was assembled for a quick getaway tomorrow and a permanent way trolley received repairs. Miscellaneous debris was removed from the three "flat" wagons so that they can remove brash from Duffield and then be loaded with redundant materials from Duffield.

Much work went on in the Buffet Car to restore the ravages of the winter on its plumbing and the Booking Hall dealt with the latest applications for tickets on the opening weekend.

Late a night, for us, some 500 Backmann wagons arrived on a pallet and are now in secure storage for sale to expectant purchasers. Good job they are "oo" guage.

The LMSCA, who seem to be working seven days a week now, moved ever onward with the Third Open.

Another good and productive day.