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- Created on Thursday, 12 August 2021 22:28
- Written by Stephen Tickell
Yorkshire Dales weekend 7-8th August 2021
Despite heavy rain on Saturday we were able to stay reasonably dry at the Embsay and Bolton Abbey Steam Railway, starting with a cream tea served in style on board the Lancashire & Yorkshire Railway Directors carriage.
Organizer John Beesley then gave us a fascinating in-depth tour of the engine sheds and workshops where he spends a lot of his spare time when not on Magnette business. John owns the ex-colliery engine 'Beatrice' which he has restored over many years, and was at the controls as it hauled several trains during the day, even inviting some of us onto the footplate to admire real engineering ! Although only about 4 miles long, the former Midland line includes significant gradients and beautiful views as it winds along the route from the Skipton end towards Bolton Abbey
Finally in the evening we enjoyed fish & chips, on a train again, this time with one of Queen Victoria's personal carriages attached - although in deference to her Majesty we didn't eat in there. Along with the friendly and helpful railway staff, John's efforts made it one of our most memorable steam railway visits. There were 10 Magnettes on the day, as well as one or two owners in other cars, and also a strong contingent from Harrogate MG club (our hosts for the Sunday event)
The turnout for the show at Pateley Bridge was slightly lower, perhaps due to the gloomy forecast, but those who made it enjoyed the usual attractions of the Nidderdale setting and the MGOC concours event, all accompanied by a brass band. As usual David and Sandra Griffiths were hard at work with the other organizers, while the rest of us dodged the passing showers and chatted until mid-afternoon
text by Stephen Tickell
