Busy days on the BLL!

With all this fine weather we have certainly been busy with construction and associated matters.

Last Friday I managed to complete a further section of the 'Sheepham Straight' however when carrying out a test run - disaster, as reversing back around 'Barneys Bend' the buffer plate made contact with an upright which threw the whole train off the tracks into the garden. 'Phyllis' lay on her side with the safety valve blowing to atmosphere until the rescue team could move in and isolate the fuel supply, at some great risk to myself I might add, before recovering the situation.

"Disaster....'!

However in true Fire Service fashion the Phoenix arose from the ashes (well garden bark actually) and after a brief inspection was chuffing her way back up the home straight. Phew, a close thing indeed. A 'smidgeon' of track refinement now needed in this location.

Sunday was another glorious day so we opted to visit 'Dartbridge' and run the train where several members were already quite active.....

Boys day out...!

A very pleasant afternoon had by all and no ill effects from the recent train smash for my rolling stock.

Still the fine weather continues and this morning I took delivery of two sheets of marine ply which is the base board for the Southern loop which will include a siding and small station. (Later I hope to add a further siding to the West).
My trusty Director took charge and by mid morning she had cleared the patio of 'unnecessary clutter' and was making many suggestions on how we should proceed - all of which I took onboard. (Really?).

Lots of sawing, drilling, sticking  and sweeping concluded with a most impressive base ready for fitting and felting - or in this case it may be felting and fitting. Its a bit like the chicken and egg syndrome. We may be fortunate and have it all in place by the end of the week. This will only leave 'Bay Leaf Bridge' and the final 4m of straight to complete the link. (A forthcoming trip to Canada may interrupt progress however).

So, overall good progress being made.

Next week - Canada. This includes three train journeys - just can't get away from them!