It was 15 years in the making and the Canadian Pacific final spike was driven in back in 1885, whereas the BLL only took 5 months and the final spike (well screw actually) was driven home yesterday 9th June 2019. Well its worth mentioning!
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| The final spike - a bit over the top perhaps! |
Prior to the main event the crowds gathered behind the confines of the barrack wall, the bunting fluttered in the warm summer breeze, the champagne corks were popping and the sound of steam and diesel horns echoed around the garden.
Finally the time came and the deed was struck.... actually the screw was turned .... and, to a sitting ovation, the final piece of rail was secured into place .....
It was then time to sample the liquid refreshments kindly delivered by our esteemed Catering Manager before the first of two test runs which allowed 'Phyllis' (the steamer) then 'Dennis the Diesel' to circumnavigate the route. First solo then with a full compliment of wagons close behind. Everything went almost without a hitch (I am not talking hitches) and we received accolades many by the audience. Well self praise never did anybody any harm!
So just a few pictures of the last 5 months so you can see how the garden has improved with the addition of more flowers and elevated rail lines.
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| February 2019 |
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| February 2019 |
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| Half a loop! May 2019 |
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| The down line progressing - May 2019 |
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| ...and now. Phew! |
Now it has to be said that the line is not perfect, there are a 'few' unwanted inclines and 'minor bumps', but overall having laid approximately 40 metres of track in total, with very little experience we are both pleased with the outcome. 'Dennis' ran under his own volition after I set course, speed and distance and reclined with my glass of bubbly!
Over the next few months I will attempt to iron out the 'unwanted issues' to try and ensure smooth running in the future. There is also the matter of landscaping and buildings to be constructed and located, so plenty to keep the BLL team fully occupied (which is what 'she' wanted!!).
(A thank you to Joe and Reg from SDGRG, who without the donation of their unwanted track base, I would not have achieved so much so soon).
I have to say a special big thank you to 'beloved' who has supported this venture, both financially and technically. (A big thank you to Sheila too!!!!)
We are hoping to have an official opening day in August, so watch you mail boxes for the invites - and you can't pretend you will be away on holiday!
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