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Austrailian Preserved Railways and Museums
Australian Preserved Railways
This 3ft 6inch gauge line was originally constructed as a means of removing copper from the mines to the sea port of Strahan. today this line transports tourists on an adventure through tropical rainforest on a journey of discovery.
the line started operations in 1897, but was forced to close in 1963. the sigths and sounds of this railway came alive again in 2000 after a gap of 40 years. It operates with 3 of the original locomotives.
This video also includes old film footage of the last run in 1963.
Special Guest Narrator - Gillian Blake
Running Time 90 minutes
the line started operations in 1897, but was forced to close in 1963. the sigths and sounds of this railway came alive again in 2000 after a gap of 40 years. It operates with 3 of the original locomotives.
This video also includes old film footage of the last run in 1963.
Special Guest Narrator - Gillian Blake
Running Time 90 minutes
18.95 £(VAT incl.)
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Australian Preserved Railways
The original Puffing Billy Railway was one of four low-cost, narrow gauge lines constructed around 1900 to open up remote areas of Victoria for settlement. Narrow gauge lines were relatively cheap to build and were more suited to the rugged terrain. During the heyday of operations there were over 200Km of track on these 4 regional lines.
Disc One: Introduction to Melbourne and the State of Victoria, featuring Flinders Street Station and the electric trains. The steaming of the engines at Belgrave. Double - header to Lakeside and onward to Gembrook, featuring interviews, cab ride and historic black and white photographs of the line.
Total Running Time 59 minutes
Disc Two: The return journey back to Belgrave, including the history of the line. Deleted scenes of engine 14A at Belgrave and bonus footage of engine 6A originally used in the opening black and white title sequence.
Total Running Time 54 minutes.
Disc One: Introduction to Melbourne and the State of Victoria, featuring Flinders Street Station and the electric trains. The steaming of the engines at Belgrave. Double - header to Lakeside and onward to Gembrook, featuring interviews, cab ride and historic black and white photographs of the line.
Total Running Time 59 minutes
Disc Two: The return journey back to Belgrave, including the history of the line. Deleted scenes of engine 14A at Belgrave and bonus footage of engine 6A originally used in the opening black and white title sequence.
Total Running Time 54 minutes.
22.49 £(VAT incl.)
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Australian Preserved Railways
This railway line is a master piece of Victorian engineering constructed deep in the Blue Mountains in New South Wales, Australia. The Zig-Zag Railway lies 150Km west of Sydney, 10 Km to the north of the region’s main town of Lithgow. The original line was built between 1866 and 1869 as part of the western main line from Sydney to Bathurst. Produce was carried on the railway from the prosperous farming areas beyond the Blue Mountains to Sydney, the line also allowing the development of coal and iron ore deposits in the Lithgow Valley. Amazingly this section of the line lay silent for over sixty years, until a group of rail enthusiasts started running once again over the famous Zig-Zag in 1975.
Disc One: Introduction to Sydney and a brief look at the double decker suburban trains, before heading to the Blue Mountains. The Zig-Zag Railway is covered in detail. All the stations and signal boxes are shown. The motive power is provided by No.1072, City of Lithgow a 4-6-2 Pacific which was built in 1956. Total Running Time 60 minutes.
Disc Two: A cab ride over the entire 8Km of the line (speeded up) with an additional cab ride over 1Km of the new 3Km extension currently under construction to Newnes Junction. Includes a detail tour of the Engine Shed and Workshops at Bottom Points. Deleted scenes show No.934, a 4-8-0 in action at Bottom Points Station. Total Running Time 33 minutes
This line may be one of the shortest preserved railway journeys in Australia, but what it lacks in length it more than makes up for in its innovative engineering.
Disc One: Introduction to Sydney and a brief look at the double decker suburban trains, before heading to the Blue Mountains. The Zig-Zag Railway is covered in detail. All the stations and signal boxes are shown. The motive power is provided by No.1072, City of Lithgow a 4-6-2 Pacific which was built in 1956. Total Running Time 60 minutes.
Disc Two: A cab ride over the entire 8Km of the line (speeded up) with an additional cab ride over 1Km of the new 3Km extension currently under construction to Newnes Junction. Includes a detail tour of the Engine Shed and Workshops at Bottom Points. Deleted scenes show No.934, a 4-8-0 in action at Bottom Points Station. Total Running Time 33 minutes
This line may be one of the shortest preserved railway journeys in Australia, but what it lacks in length it more than makes up for in its innovative engineering.
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Australian Preserved Railways
The Ida Bay Railway is the last operating bush “tramway” in Tasmania. It is also Australia’s southern most railway. Situated 2 hours drive south from the Tasmanian capital, Hobart. This 2 foot narrow gauge line runs from Lune River to Elliott’s Beach, a distance of 7km.
One of the many features of this line are the Malcolm Moore diesel locomotives, brought as replacements for steam in 1948. The railway has two of them. Their distinctive red and yellow livery now a common sight on this former minerals line. Several of the passenger coaches are built on boogies from the original “flat wagons” dating back to the 1880’s. These are some of the earliest bogie wagons in Australia.
At Lune River Station, the railways headquarters, there are relics of the limestone days, as much of the original machinery has been kept, as a reminder of when this part of Southern Tasmania was the heart of quarrying. Indeed when this line was built it was the only way to transport the minerals from the quarries to the port was by this railway.
Total Running Time 61 minutes.
One of the many features of this line are the Malcolm Moore diesel locomotives, brought as replacements for steam in 1948. The railway has two of them. Their distinctive red and yellow livery now a common sight on this former minerals line. Several of the passenger coaches are built on boogies from the original “flat wagons” dating back to the 1880’s. These are some of the earliest bogie wagons in Australia.
At Lune River Station, the railways headquarters, there are relics of the limestone days, as much of the original machinery has been kept, as a reminder of when this part of Southern Tasmania was the heart of quarrying. Indeed when this line was built it was the only way to transport the minerals from the quarries to the port was by this railway.
Total Running Time 61 minutes.
17.95 £(VAT incl.)
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Australian Preserved Railways
By 1911 the tram fleet consisted of ten cars fitted with motors. The length of the lines were 11.3Km and they ran from Sandhill to Invermay via Wellington, Elizabeth, Charles, Brisbane, Cameron and Tamar Streets and Kings Bridge to Newstead via Paterson, Charles and Brisbane Streets. In 1913 the route was extended to Trevallyn.
The trams were run on a single overhead trolley rod. The current, after being transformed from 5000 volts to 550 volts along the overhead copper wire, then down the trolley rod through the motors in the cars to the rails, along which it travelled back to the substation. The original depot was at Inveresk, but after the floods of 1929 it was moved to Howick Street.
Trams were superseded by more flexible buses at the end of 1952.
Today this museum is restoring some of the historical trams that once were a common site on the streets of Launceston.
Bonus footage, 20 minutes of Melbourne Tram Museum.
Total Running Time 60 minutes.
The trams were run on a single overhead trolley rod. The current, after being transformed from 5000 volts to 550 volts along the overhead copper wire, then down the trolley rod through the motors in the cars to the rails, along which it travelled back to the substation. The original depot was at Inveresk, but after the floods of 1929 it was moved to Howick Street.
Trams were superseded by more flexible buses at the end of 1952.
Today this museum is restoring some of the historical trams that once were a common site on the streets of Launceston.
Bonus footage, 20 minutes of Melbourne Tram Museum.
Total Running Time 60 minutes.
17.95 £(VAT incl.)
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Australian Preserved Railways
The Hawthorn Tramway Depot was built in 1916 for the Hawthorn Tramways Trust (HTT). The depot was close to the HTT’s two main lines which ran into the city. Indeed even today the best way to get to the museum is by either Tram 70 or Tram 75, both stop at Riverside Junction (29), close to the corner of Power Street and Wallen Road in Hawthorn, some 40 minutes from the city centre.
By 1920 the Melbourne and Metropolitan Tramways Board (M&MTB) had taken over and by 1925 the depot was used also to teach and train drivers. The depot closed as a running depot in February 1965, but it was kept on as a training and uniform manufacture until the 1990’s. In 1996 the depot was added to the Victoria Heritage Register. It was redeveloped and reopened in 2002 as a residential complex, but thankfully the original 4 road shed was kept. Ever since 1885, Melbourne has been one of the great tramway cities of the world. Explore the history of these trams and the contributions they have made. Today Melbourne has the new “E” class of trams running on various routes, but thanks to the Hawthorn Depot’s commitment, most of the historic trams that once a common sight on the streets of Melbourne are preserved here. Today the four road shed is home to 21 vintage trams. There are destination board, how a tram is powered and a history of every tram here. There are a wide range of vehicles including, MTOC cable tram set, VR’s 20 and 53, The M&MTB L104 and 106, the “S” and “T” series and the much loved “W” Class (these cans till be seen operating on the free tourist tram- heritage City Circle route 35 today). Run by volunteers, this static museum is a timely reminder to both young and old of the importance these trams played in the development of this city.
Running Time 56 Minutes
By 1920 the Melbourne and Metropolitan Tramways Board (M&MTB) had taken over and by 1925 the depot was used also to teach and train drivers. The depot closed as a running depot in February 1965, but it was kept on as a training and uniform manufacture until the 1990’s. In 1996 the depot was added to the Victoria Heritage Register. It was redeveloped and reopened in 2002 as a residential complex, but thankfully the original 4 road shed was kept. Ever since 1885, Melbourne has been one of the great tramway cities of the world. Explore the history of these trams and the contributions they have made. Today Melbourne has the new “E” class of trams running on various routes, but thanks to the Hawthorn Depot’s commitment, most of the historic trams that once a common sight on the streets of Melbourne are preserved here. Today the four road shed is home to 21 vintage trams. There are destination board, how a tram is powered and a history of every tram here. There are a wide range of vehicles including, MTOC cable tram set, VR’s 20 and 53, The M&MTB L104 and 106, the “S” and “T” series and the much loved “W” Class (these cans till be seen operating on the free tourist tram- heritage City Circle route 35 today). Run by volunteers, this static museum is a timely reminder to both young and old of the importance these trams played in the development of this city.
Running Time 56 Minutes
17.95 £(VAT incl.)
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Australian Preserved Railways
The Museum is the home of the State’s largest collection of transport exhibits and related items. It provides a fascinating insight on life in Tasmania from the earliest days of mechanised transport and fire services.The museum is the project of the Tasmanian Transport Museum Society whose members have worked in a voluntary capacity for its establishment.In 1960 a Hobart tramcar was donated by the Metropolitan Transport Trust for presentation. As a result the Society was formed in 1962 with the aim of preserving representative items of transport interest from those which were disappearing from the daily scene.The first ten years saw the preservation of many items either by purchase or donation. It was not until 1972 that the present site was leased from the Glenorchy City Council. After the laying of rail track the first items were moved to the site in 1976. The museum was officially opened on 3rd December 1983.Construction of permanent building commenced in 1976 (Electric Traction Building) followed by the Railway Station(1980), Steam Technology Building (1983), Carriage Shed (1984), Round House (1986), the Fire Services Museum (2004) and finally the Road Transport display Hall in 2013.
Total Running Time 56 minutes.
Total Running Time 56 minutes.
17.95 £(VAT incl.)
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World Railways
Other Titles
The Kelana Jaya Line was the first fully automated driverless train in Malaysia's captial city of Kuala Lumpur. The Line forms a major part of the Klang Valley Integated Transit System and such is its popularity more lines are being added. Construction of this line began in 1994. the line is numbered 5 and coloured Ruby on the offical transit map. The line was formally known as the PUTRA LRT (Project Usahasama Transit Ringan Automatic Light Rapid Transit.) It is one of the longest fully automated driverless lines in the world, although it is worth noting these trains can be manually driven should there be a need to do so.
Total Running Time 77 Minutes
Price £17.95
Total Running Time 77 Minutes
Price £17.95
17.95 £(VAT incl.)
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Other Titles
The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) Kajang Line was the second fully
automated driverless train in Malaysia’s capital city of Kuala
Lumpur. The line forms a major part of the Klang Valley Integrated
Transit System and such is its popularity, more lines are being
added. Construction of this line began in July 2011. The line is
numbered 9 and coloured Green on the official transit map. It was
formally known as the Sungai Buloh- Kajang Line (SBK). The line
was opened in 2 stages between December 2016 and July 2017.
Phase 1 between Sungai Buloh and Semantan and Phase 2 between
Muzium Negara and Kajang. The track gauge is 4 feet 8 ½ inches.
The total line length is 47km (29 miles),with 37.5km (23.3 miles)
elevated and 9.5km (5.9 miles) underground. The rolling stock is
provided by Siemens. The Inspiro 4 car units have a passenger
carrying capacity of 1,200 and a top speed of 100km/h
total running time: 73 minutes
Price £17.95
automated driverless train in Malaysia’s capital city of Kuala
Lumpur. The line forms a major part of the Klang Valley Integrated
Transit System and such is its popularity, more lines are being
added. Construction of this line began in July 2011. The line is
numbered 9 and coloured Green on the official transit map. It was
formally known as the Sungai Buloh- Kajang Line (SBK). The line
was opened in 2 stages between December 2016 and July 2017.
Phase 1 between Sungai Buloh and Semantan and Phase 2 between
Muzium Negara and Kajang. The track gauge is 4 feet 8 ½ inches.
The total line length is 47km (29 miles),with 37.5km (23.3 miles)
elevated and 9.5km (5.9 miles) underground. The rolling stock is
provided by Siemens. The Inspiro 4 car units have a passenger
carrying capacity of 1,200 and a top speed of 100km/h
total running time: 73 minutes
Price £17.95
17.95 £(VAT incl.)
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Other Titles
The Green Line is one of two metro lines in Dubai. This line runsthrough the districts of Deira and Bur Dubai. The track runs parallelto Dubai Creek. There are currently 20 stations on this line. The main depot is at Etisalat, (Al Qusais) this is also the easternterminus of the line. At present the route covers a distance of 22.5Km (14 miles) to Dubai Creek. A further extension is plannedfrom Creek to Academic City.
Total Running Time 52 minutes.
Total Running Time 52 minutes.
17.95 £(VAT incl.)
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World's Preserved Railways
The North Borneo Railway was built by the British in 1896 and keeps alive the traditions of the white Rajah’s who once ruled this land. The wild jungles provided grounds for great adventure whilst offering potential riches for plantation owners. As the need for larger plantations grew, the question of transportation became a major issue for these young entrepreneurs.
A railway was proposed straight into the heart of Borneo and largely considered to be the only viable solution. It provided a relatively cheap and time saving option for the transportation of the produce to the coast. At the ports of Jessleton and Weston, The British East Indian Shipping Company could export the produce on board their Europe bound cargo ships.
The North Borneo Railway is transporting once again, although this time the cargo is visitors - all keen to discover just what travelling in a by-gone age was like. Today this journey travels the 66 Km from Kota Kinabula south to the small town of Papar. On route there is a short stop to view a Chinese temple and on the return the delights of a Tiffin lunch. The ride is behind a Vulcan Steam locomotive - built in Newton-le-Willows England in 1954 as part of the last order of steam engines before the factory converted to diesel.
Total Running Time 59 minutes.
A railway was proposed straight into the heart of Borneo and largely considered to be the only viable solution. It provided a relatively cheap and time saving option for the transportation of the produce to the coast. At the ports of Jessleton and Weston, The British East Indian Shipping Company could export the produce on board their Europe bound cargo ships.
The North Borneo Railway is transporting once again, although this time the cargo is visitors - all keen to discover just what travelling in a by-gone age was like. Today this journey travels the 66 Km from Kota Kinabula south to the small town of Papar. On route there is a short stop to view a Chinese temple and on the return the delights of a Tiffin lunch. The ride is behind a Vulcan Steam locomotive - built in Newton-le-Willows England in 1954 as part of the last order of steam engines before the factory converted to diesel.
Total Running Time 59 minutes.
17.95 £(VAT incl.)
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World's Preserved Railways
The Outeniqua Choo Tjoe, (pronounced Oat-tar-nee-qua Chew Chew) is the last remaining scheduled steam service still operating in South Africa, connecting the towns of George and Knysna on the country’s Western Cape. Unfortunately at the time of filming, due to poor track maintenance and a landslide, the motive power has been replaced by a diesel and the journey reduced by a third of it’s usual running length - the service now terminating at the seaside resort of Wilderness. The full service runs for sixty eight kilometres along the coast in an area known locally as the Garden Route. The journey takes two hours in each direction.
The Class 32 Diesel locomotive, number 32029, was built by the General Electric company of the USA in 1959. It provides the motive power until the track can be fully upgraded to allow the Class 19D steam locomotives to again run on this line.
Total Running Time 59 minutes.
The Class 32 Diesel locomotive, number 32029, was built by the General Electric company of the USA in 1959. It provides the motive power until the track can be fully upgraded to allow the Class 19D steam locomotives to again run on this line.
Total Running Time 59 minutes.
17.95 £(VAT incl.)
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Other Titles
These four individual journeys were filmed overa number of years and have been linkied professionally by Bob to form a unique insight into remote railways worldwide. All are differnet, but all show the need for why these railways were built and the benefits they bring to their respective communities.
Kuranda Scenic Railway - North Queensland - Australia
Sri Lanka Railways - Galle to Koggala - Sir Lanka
Sabah State Railway - Beaufort to Tenom - Borneo - Malaysia
Perurail - Vistadome Express - Polroy to Machu Picchu - Peru
Running Time: 58 minutes
Kuranda Scenic Railway - North Queensland - Australia
Sri Lanka Railways - Galle to Koggala - Sir Lanka
Sabah State Railway - Beaufort to Tenom - Borneo - Malaysia
Perurail - Vistadome Express - Polroy to Machu Picchu - Peru
Running Time: 58 minutes
17.95 £(VAT incl.)
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Other Titles
These films were made either as additional scenes for other productions or as archive material to be used to highlight city transport systems worldwide.These unique films, which have been professionally linked by Bob, show how countries overcame their transport needs and show a variety of engines and rolling stock, much of which has now been withdrawn from service.
Dubai Metro -UEA - Cabride on the Red Line
Kuala Lumpur - Malaysia - Star, Putra and Main Line
San Francisco - USA - Trams and Cable Cars
Sydney - Australia - Double Decker Trains and Monorail
Running Time 59 Minutes
Dubai Metro -UEA - Cabride on the Red Line
Kuala Lumpur - Malaysia - Star, Putra and Main Line
San Francisco - USA - Trams and Cable Cars
Sydney - Australia - Double Decker Trains and Monorail
Running Time 59 Minutes
17.95 £(VAT incl.)
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Other Titles
These films, like the ones featured in Volume 1, were made either as links to other productions, but were never used in the final finished films or as extra scenes to other productions that were never broadcast. These unique films, which have been professionally linked by Bob, show how cities overcome their transport needs and show a variety of engines and rolling stock.
Isle of Man Railways- United Kingdom
Singapore Light Rapid Transit- Sentosa Monorail
Boston - Masachusetts -USA - Trams & Subway stock
Hong Kong Trams - Underground- Victoria Peak Tram
Running Time 53 Minutes
Isle of Man Railways- United Kingdom
Singapore Light Rapid Transit- Sentosa Monorail
Boston - Masachusetts -USA - Trams & Subway stock
Hong Kong Trams - Underground- Victoria Peak Tram
Running Time 53 Minutes
17.95 £(VAT incl.)
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Bob Symes Collection
Bob Symes Collection
Bob Symes Collection presents - Model WorldThe Model World Series was first shown on BBC TV in 1975 and again on Live and Kicking in 1991. All 10 programmes are shown on this DVD, including the short trailer from 1991.
Programme 1. Something For EveryoneWho would have believed the range of models that are possible and the number of materials that can be used. This series set out to educate model-making of all persuasions with expects in different fields giving master-c;lasses in model making. Master-class 1 shows how to build model planes from plastic kits.
Programmes 2 and 3. Model AircraftMaster-class 2 shows how to build planes from balsa wood. Radio controls are explained and demonstrated. There is also a demonstration on tethered flight - not for those who suffer from dizziness!
Programmes 4 and 5. Model Yachts and Power Boats.Master-classes 4 & 5 show hoe to design and build model sailing yachts with a history lesson of design changes through the years. Model boat races are shown - from the more gentle sail powered yachts to the fast,electric power racing boats.
Programmes 6 and 7 - Military ModellingAll aspects of military modelling are shown from model soldiers to model battlefields. These models can be used in static displays (dioramas) or used to re-enact periods in history. Master-classes demonstrate how to build the models from scratch or convert ready-built models to suit your requirements.
Programmes 8,9 and 10 Model \\RailwaysThese programmes take you though all aspects of railway modelling from the initial plans of the railway to building the track, stock and scenery and on to running trains. Train movements are shown on the 00 Gauge model of Horsted Keynes and then on Gauge One with live steam, battery-powered and diesel-electric locomotives.
Due to the age of these films, the sound and picture quality may be affected in some parts of this production.Originally shown on BBC tv and used with kind permission.
Programme 1. Something For EveryoneWho would have believed the range of models that are possible and the number of materials that can be used. This series set out to educate model-making of all persuasions with expects in different fields giving master-c;lasses in model making. Master-class 1 shows how to build model planes from plastic kits.
Programmes 2 and 3. Model AircraftMaster-class 2 shows how to build planes from balsa wood. Radio controls are explained and demonstrated. There is also a demonstration on tethered flight - not for those who suffer from dizziness!
Programmes 4 and 5. Model Yachts and Power Boats.Master-classes 4 & 5 show hoe to design and build model sailing yachts with a history lesson of design changes through the years. Model boat races are shown - from the more gentle sail powered yachts to the fast,electric power racing boats.
Programmes 6 and 7 - Military ModellingAll aspects of military modelling are shown from model soldiers to model battlefields. These models can be used in static displays (dioramas) or used to re-enact periods in history. Master-classes demonstrate how to build the models from scratch or convert ready-built models to suit your requirements.
Programmes 8,9 and 10 Model \\RailwaysThese programmes take you though all aspects of railway modelling from the initial plans of the railway to building the track, stock and scenery and on to running trains. Train movements are shown on the 00 Gauge model of Horsted Keynes and then on Gauge One with live steam, battery-powered and diesel-electric locomotives.
Due to the age of these films, the sound and picture quality may be affected in some parts of this production.Originally shown on BBC tv and used with kind permission.
22.00 £(VAT incl.)
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Bob Symes Collection
Bob Symes Collection presents- Model MagicThe Model Magic series was first shown on Ulster TV and Channel 4 in 1985. All 6 programmes are shown on this double DVD as well as the short trailer for the book of the series by Vic Smeed which is still available to purchase, via the Internet.
1. Models and HistoryAllen Levy from the now closed London Toy Museum reflects on the history of models. Quality modelling by Stanley Beeson and Roye England talks about the Pendon Museum.Original transmission time: Monday September 16, 1985, 5.30 PM
2. Model Cars and TramsJohn Prentice talks trams, Phil Greeno races his radio controlled model cars and Gerald Wingrove shares some secrets involved in building a scaled Alpha Romeo.Original transmission time: Monday September 23, 1985, 5.30 PM
3. Model Ships and YachtsMalcolm Darch visits Guildford Model Boats Club and learns about radio control, Vic Smeed talks Yachts and Alex MacFadyen shows his latest model - HMS Vanguard.Original transmission time: Monday September 30, 1985, 5.30 PM
4. Model AircraftDavid Boddington explains the differences between gliders, fixed wing aircraft and helicopters and shows various options, including free flight and radio controlled.Original transmission time: Monday October 7, 1985, 5.30 PM
5. Model RailwaysBob Symes shows his own Gauge 1 line, Stuart Hine builds a 4 wheel van. David and Shirley Rowe share some secrets on their 00 gauge industrial sand working layout.Original transmission time: Monday October 14, 1985, 5.30 PM
6. The Miniature EngineerJohn Stubbs shows his working model of a horse drawn fire engine, Eric Best shows his cardboard traction engines and Derek Wilson talks about steam boilers.Original transmission time: Monday October 21, 1985, 5.30 PM
1. Models and HistoryAllen Levy from the now closed London Toy Museum reflects on the history of models. Quality modelling by Stanley Beeson and Roye England talks about the Pendon Museum.Original transmission time: Monday September 16, 1985, 5.30 PM
2. Model Cars and TramsJohn Prentice talks trams, Phil Greeno races his radio controlled model cars and Gerald Wingrove shares some secrets involved in building a scaled Alpha Romeo.Original transmission time: Monday September 23, 1985, 5.30 PM
3. Model Ships and YachtsMalcolm Darch visits Guildford Model Boats Club and learns about radio control, Vic Smeed talks Yachts and Alex MacFadyen shows his latest model - HMS Vanguard.Original transmission time: Monday September 30, 1985, 5.30 PM
4. Model AircraftDavid Boddington explains the differences between gliders, fixed wing aircraft and helicopters and shows various options, including free flight and radio controlled.Original transmission time: Monday October 7, 1985, 5.30 PM
5. Model RailwaysBob Symes shows his own Gauge 1 line, Stuart Hine builds a 4 wheel van. David and Shirley Rowe share some secrets on their 00 gauge industrial sand working layout.Original transmission time: Monday October 14, 1985, 5.30 PM
6. The Miniature EngineerJohn Stubbs shows his working model of a horse drawn fire engine, Eric Best shows his cardboard traction engines and Derek Wilson talks about steam boilers.Original transmission time: Monday October 21, 1985, 5.30 PM
22.00 £(VAT incl.)
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Miniature Railways
Few people get to realise their childhood dream and fewer still at the age of 86, but this is what happened to me, Bob Symes. I have always loved and been involved with railways and this film shows the culmination of 10 years work to design and build mu own garden railway. Many friends and acquaintances have been involved along the way from surveying the track to building my unique locomotives, a GWR railcar and a 14XX. Without the help of all of these people Green Dene ( Works) Railway would never have come to fruition.
Early photos have been found, featuring the purchasing of the first engine (2000) and track laying (2001), plus video footage (4:3) from 2003. In 2004 the railcar arrived and the camera’s were here to capture the first run. Station & signal box construction took place in 2005. 2006 saw the bells installed from the signal box to the carriage shed. In 2007 the 14XX was commissioned. The Oakhill Manor coaches run on the line in 2008 & in 2009 the waiting room on the down platform was in place. 2010 saw the arrival of the latest addition to the fleet. The 14XX. This film gives some insight into the challenges involved in building a garden railway.
Total Running Time 62 minutes.
Early photos have been found, featuring the purchasing of the first engine (2000) and track laying (2001), plus video footage (4:3) from 2003. In 2004 the railcar arrived and the camera’s were here to capture the first run. Station & signal box construction took place in 2005. 2006 saw the bells installed from the signal box to the carriage shed. In 2007 the 14XX was commissioned. The Oakhill Manor coaches run on the line in 2008 & in 2009 the waiting room on the down platform was in place. 2010 saw the arrival of the latest addition to the fleet. The 14XX. This film gives some insight into the challenges involved in building a garden railway.
Total Running Time 62 minutes.
17.95 £(VAT incl.)
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Bob Symes Collection
This 50 minute programme was first broadcast in 1978 and was a result of two previous series, namely 1 Model Worlds' and 2 Model Magic’ . The idea came from a fellow producer, Bob Bootle, whom I shared an office with at the BBC. He suggested that I made a film about my life history of model making. I had always made models and as I said in my opening piece to camera, I have always been interested in models, all of my life.
In this programme I cover all aspects of model making. I run my diesel electric, Class 47 - the first ever to be built in Gauge 1.
I show my Austrian tram which I built from memory just after the Second World War and more larger scale trams are featured on a wonderful layout.
Boats are made out of match sticks and a model of my Gun Boat, which I served on during the Second World War.
Phil Warren shows how to make figures. There is even a model of me in my navel uniform. I take a detailed loo at my own steam plant which was my only source of electricity at my home for a long time.
There is a scene of me waiting for a tram in a model town and with the aid of trick photography I appear to be driving both a tram and a locomotive. Also featured are model racing cars and scaled planes.
This film was very popular with children and adults alike. After broadcast, this film was so popular it was shown for several years at Christmas.
In this programme I cover all aspects of model making. I run my diesel electric, Class 47 - the first ever to be built in Gauge 1.
I show my Austrian tram which I built from memory just after the Second World War and more larger scale trams are featured on a wonderful layout.
Boats are made out of match sticks and a model of my Gun Boat, which I served on during the Second World War.
Phil Warren shows how to make figures. There is even a model of me in my navel uniform. I take a detailed loo at my own steam plant which was my only source of electricity at my home for a long time.
There is a scene of me waiting for a tram in a model town and with the aid of trick photography I appear to be driving both a tram and a locomotive. Also featured are model racing cars and scaled planes.
This film was very popular with children and adults alike. After broadcast, this film was so popular it was shown for several years at Christmas.
17.95 £(VAT incl.)
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Other Titles
Featuring rare and forgotten films. These films were made either as fillers for the BBC or for the BBC Railway Society which I founded in the early ‘50s. They were mainly shot in black and white and are complied from my library.The introduction and links are, of course, filmed in broadcast quality.
14xx wheels filler film My 2 metre OO Gauge layout was set up in an empty studio at TV Centre. The use of many different camera shots ensured that the line appeared much grander.
The Swansea & Mumbles Railway.In the mid 1950s there were rumours that the line was due to close. The BBC Railway Society decided to record the railway before it disappeared for good.
Grimsby & Immingham Trams.Originally filmed by Francis Reed and myself in the final days of operation in 1960, it stayed as a rough cut until 1978 when the BBC Railway Society completed the film.
Glasgow Trams.We filmed the line in 1962 as it was due to close. The voices of the local people, interviewed at the time, tell of their sadness at the loss of their beloved trams.
Horizon: On A Different Track. (Excerpt)Having ben given a permanent position in TV Features/ OB I was engaged by the producer as the Railway Expert and part-time presenter on this railway programme comparing French and British railways.
Kestrel Locomotive.This was the most powerful (4000hp, single engine) diesel electric locomotive of its day and was built by the Brush Loco Works.
Odd Ball Trains.
14xx wheels filler film My 2 metre OO Gauge layout was set up in an empty studio at TV Centre. The use of many different camera shots ensured that the line appeared much grander.
The Swansea & Mumbles Railway.In the mid 1950s there were rumours that the line was due to close. The BBC Railway Society decided to record the railway before it disappeared for good.
Grimsby & Immingham Trams.Originally filmed by Francis Reed and myself in the final days of operation in 1960, it stayed as a rough cut until 1978 when the BBC Railway Society completed the film.
Glasgow Trams.We filmed the line in 1962 as it was due to close. The voices of the local people, interviewed at the time, tell of their sadness at the loss of their beloved trams.
Horizon: On A Different Track. (Excerpt)Having ben given a permanent position in TV Features/ OB I was engaged by the producer as the Railway Expert and part-time presenter on this railway programme comparing French and British railways.
Kestrel Locomotive.This was the most powerful (4000hp, single engine) diesel electric locomotive of its day and was built by the Brush Loco Works.
Odd Ball Trains.
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Other Titles
Featuring rare and forgotten films. All these films were originally researched and produced by me and were presented on Tomorrows World.
Liquid IronThis film shows the transportation of liquid iron by rail in torpedo cars. It was transported from the smelters to the steel works, a distance of approximately 60km, without the loss of heat or energy.
British Channel TunnelIn 1972 William Woollard travels on a train bound for the Channel Tunnel and shows how easy rail travel with Europe could be. There was no Channel Tunnel and there would not be for another 22 years.
Intumescent PaintThis paint expands and forms a heat protective barrier when exposed to fire. It was an easy way to fireproof doors, cabinets etc, and is in use today.
Terram The Plastic equivalent of the original Roman underlay for roads- which were rushes. It clearly showed that vehicles could move over boggy ground with ease. I was so impressed that I have it on my garden railway.
Heat Resistant Gel A studio film about the benefits of a heat resistant gel invented in Australia. I have a small part in the film as the welder and plumber. The product did work and has gone on to be widely used.
Vienna Trams - This explores the differences between European and British thinking on transport.
Auto Trains - A driverless freight vehicle.
Ear Protectors - Cut out damaging noise letting only ordinary sound through.
Liquid IronThis film shows the transportation of liquid iron by rail in torpedo cars. It was transported from the smelters to the steel works, a distance of approximately 60km, without the loss of heat or energy.
British Channel TunnelIn 1972 William Woollard travels on a train bound for the Channel Tunnel and shows how easy rail travel with Europe could be. There was no Channel Tunnel and there would not be for another 22 years.
Intumescent PaintThis paint expands and forms a heat protective barrier when exposed to fire. It was an easy way to fireproof doors, cabinets etc, and is in use today.
Terram The Plastic equivalent of the original Roman underlay for roads- which were rushes. It clearly showed that vehicles could move over boggy ground with ease. I was so impressed that I have it on my garden railway.
Heat Resistant Gel A studio film about the benefits of a heat resistant gel invented in Australia. I have a small part in the film as the welder and plumber. The product did work and has gone on to be widely used.
Vienna Trams - This explores the differences between European and British thinking on transport.
Auto Trains - A driverless freight vehicle.
Ear Protectors - Cut out damaging noise letting only ordinary sound through.
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Other Titles
Featuring rare and forgotten films. All of these films were originally researched and produced by me and were presented on Tomorrows World. (Apart from Blue Peter film)
Silent Sleepers.This film shows how the brand new, deep level metro in Vienna was fitted out with sound absorbent plastic sleepers.
‘ Go Anywhere’ Army Tractor.William Woollard had great fun on a military test ground testing a brand new sapper vehicle. Not only did it propel itself in the river, but also climbed up a cliff on a rope it launched itself. It was never bought by the British armed forces.
Advanced Passenger Train (APT).In 1969 I made a model of this tilting train using an idea from my very first film, Wheels. To make the train tilt I had the BBC build the scenery on a moving base and the train was tilted as the scenery was pulled past it.
Rail Retarders.Maggie Howard shows how these clever devises, based on the concept of a hydraulic shock absorber, could help show down trucks or even a full size engines in shunting yards. These retarders are now in use in Europe.
Blue Peter Film. A special film, as it shows my Gauge 1 Railway in my former home in Guildford. Christopher Trace came down to officially open my new line and the film was then shown on Blue Peter and proved to be very popular.
Munich Trams. A trail of a new transport system
Newcastle Metro Looking at a new system which was based on electrification of derelict branch lines.
Sidney Weighell- A personal reflection on British railway transport in the mid 1970’ s
Bonus films: Silent Combustion Engine, Turbo Train and Aerial Photography Film
Silent Sleepers.This film shows how the brand new, deep level metro in Vienna was fitted out with sound absorbent plastic sleepers.
‘ Go Anywhere’ Army Tractor.William Woollard had great fun on a military test ground testing a brand new sapper vehicle. Not only did it propel itself in the river, but also climbed up a cliff on a rope it launched itself. It was never bought by the British armed forces.
Advanced Passenger Train (APT).In 1969 I made a model of this tilting train using an idea from my very first film, Wheels. To make the train tilt I had the BBC build the scenery on a moving base and the train was tilted as the scenery was pulled past it.
Rail Retarders.Maggie Howard shows how these clever devises, based on the concept of a hydraulic shock absorber, could help show down trucks or even a full size engines in shunting yards. These retarders are now in use in Europe.
Blue Peter Film. A special film, as it shows my Gauge 1 Railway in my former home in Guildford. Christopher Trace came down to officially open my new line and the film was then shown on Blue Peter and proved to be very popular.
Munich Trams. A trail of a new transport system
Newcastle Metro Looking at a new system which was based on electrification of derelict branch lines.
Sidney Weighell- A personal reflection on British railway transport in the mid 1970’ s
Bonus films: Silent Combustion Engine, Turbo Train and Aerial Photography Film
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In his own words as he wished it to be
In this film we discover "pages" of Bob's life. The ones he found
interesting and which raised a smile with him as he recalled the events.
All linked of course with a railway story
Filmed at his home in May 2010, Bob starts by talking about his
early life in Austria and of the effects the Second World War
had on him. His arrival in the Middle East, the development
of his Navy career and his on-going love of railways.
After the war finished Bob left the navy and came to Britain in
search of work. He started looking into medicine, but quickly
realised it was a costly business and he openly admits he didn't
have the money to see himself through medical school.
By this time (late 1946) he had meet a lady who worked for the
BBC and anyone that knows Bob knows the rest of this story.
The lady's name was Monica, they were married within
6 weeks of meeting and stayed together for the next 50 years.
Bob's broadcasting journey started out as a Studio Manager at
Bush House in London. During his long career he moved across from
radio to television, working on the Man Alive and Tommorrow's World
TV programmes. This also gave him the chance to develop his love of
railway programmes and he made many during his long life.
As anyone who knew Bob and there were many during his 90
years with us will tell you, his real true love was that of railways.
The Great Western Railway (GWR) was one of his passions,
indeed in his later life he built his own GWR line at his home in
Surrey and called it Green Dene (Works) Railway.
Now he has departed this world maybe he is running another
GWR, this time of course I refer to God's Wonderful Railway.
In this film we discover "pages" of Bob's life. The ones he found
interesting and which raised a smile with him as he recalled the events.
All linked of course with a railway story
Filmed at his home in May 2010, Bob starts by talking about his
early life in Austria and of the effects the Second World War
had on him. His arrival in the Middle East, the development
of his Navy career and his on-going love of railways.
After the war finished Bob left the navy and came to Britain in
search of work. He started looking into medicine, but quickly
realised it was a costly business and he openly admits he didn't
have the money to see himself through medical school.
By this time (late 1946) he had meet a lady who worked for the
BBC and anyone that knows Bob knows the rest of this story.
The lady's name was Monica, they were married within
6 weeks of meeting and stayed together for the next 50 years.
Bob's broadcasting journey started out as a Studio Manager at
Bush House in London. During his long career he moved across from
radio to television, working on the Man Alive and Tommorrow's World
TV programmes. This also gave him the chance to develop his love of
railway programmes and he made many during his long life.
As anyone who knew Bob and there were many during his 90
years with us will tell you, his real true love was that of railways.
The Great Western Railway (GWR) was one of his passions,
indeed in his later life he built his own GWR line at his home in
Surrey and called it Green Dene (Works) Railway.
Now he has departed this world maybe he is running another
GWR, this time of course I refer to God's Wonderful Railway.
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Bob Symes Collection
Whilst I was going through my archive material I re-discovered this film. It was filmed some 35 years ago but it is interesting to note that the same issues are as relevant today as they were then.
This film was originally transmitted by the BBC Horizon programme in 1978. It gave me my first experience of being in front of the camera, as I was asked by the producer of Horizon, Chris La Fontaine to be involved in the film as a railway expert. This 50 minute film shows the different approach the French had to their railways compared to that of the British. This version is shown in its original format; as it would have been shown to series producers before the general public saw it. It also caused controversy when first broadcast as the French speaking parts were not over-dubbed in English: it was assumed at the time (wrongly) that most viewers would be able to understand the basic French. I remember we got into a lot of trouble for not adding sub-titles to the finished version.
I have very fond memories when I watch this film as it allowed me to put my views about European railways to the British public and more importantly it gave me the chance to work with Chris.
This film was originally transmitted by the BBC Horizon programme in 1978. It gave me my first experience of being in front of the camera, as I was asked by the producer of Horizon, Chris La Fontaine to be involved in the film as a railway expert. This 50 minute film shows the different approach the French had to their railways compared to that of the British. This version is shown in its original format; as it would have been shown to series producers before the general public saw it. It also caused controversy when first broadcast as the French speaking parts were not over-dubbed in English: it was assumed at the time (wrongly) that most viewers would be able to understand the basic French. I remember we got into a lot of trouble for not adding sub-titles to the finished version.
I have very fond memories when I watch this film as it allowed me to put my views about European railways to the British public and more importantly it gave me the chance to work with Chris.
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Bob Symes Collection
This film was first transmitted on BBC2, on the 3rd January 1980. Here is the original memo sent by Bob Bootle, Producer, Science and Features to BBC Promotions Department.
A railway dies when its heart is rotten and its owners no longer believe in it. In 1946, the narrow-gauge Ffestiniog line in North Wales died. It turned away passengers, trees grew through its track, and its upper section was soon to be drowned by a hydro-electric scheme.
From its early days when hordes of workmen struggled to build its mile long embankment across the tide-ripped Glaslyn estuary, the line had a threatened existence. Builders and engineers decades in advance of their time brought the Ffestiniog to life and kept it in being by the narrowest of margins. But the latest disaster seemed final.
This year the revived Ffestiniog line celebrates its 25th birthday. Its brightly polished locomotives haul 400,000 passengers a year from the harbour town of Porthmadog, through wooded valleys to the grimly fascinating slate town of Bleanau Ffestiniog. The track is rebuilt, the artificial lake circumvented; and the new line will soon be completed into the centre of Blaenau Ffestiniog with a new station where passengers can interchange with British Rail.
Railway expert Robert Symes, himself a founder member of the renowned Talyllyn Line, uncovers the background story of the Ffestiniog many brushes with death, and how a new generation of determined men brought it triumphant to life once more.
A railway dies when its heart is rotten and its owners no longer believe in it. In 1946, the narrow-gauge Ffestiniog line in North Wales died. It turned away passengers, trees grew through its track, and its upper section was soon to be drowned by a hydro-electric scheme.
From its early days when hordes of workmen struggled to build its mile long embankment across the tide-ripped Glaslyn estuary, the line had a threatened existence. Builders and engineers decades in advance of their time brought the Ffestiniog to life and kept it in being by the narrowest of margins. But the latest disaster seemed final.
This year the revived Ffestiniog line celebrates its 25th birthday. Its brightly polished locomotives haul 400,000 passengers a year from the harbour town of Porthmadog, through wooded valleys to the grimly fascinating slate town of Bleanau Ffestiniog. The track is rebuilt, the artificial lake circumvented; and the new line will soon be completed into the centre of Blaenau Ffestiniog with a new station where passengers can interchange with British Rail.
Railway expert Robert Symes, himself a founder member of the renowned Talyllyn Line, uncovers the background story of the Ffestiniog many brushes with death, and how a new generation of determined men brought it triumphant to life once more.
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American Preserved Railroads
American Preserved Railroads
The Cass Scenic Railroad in West Virginia is a working, living museum for the logging railroads, the state once having over 3000 miles of logging lines. Sadly they are all gone now, except for this 11 mile (18kms) line between Cass and the mountain summit of Bald Knob, the second highest mountain in West Virginia (4,842 feet). The views on a clear day are of the Virginia border, some 20 miles away, although this logging line never carried passengers. Its sole purpose was to bring the logs off the mountain to the mill at Cass, as quickly and as cheaply as possible.
Disc One: Introduction to the town of Cass, plus a detailed look at the Shay locomotives. A Workshop tour is also included, featuring both Shay #5 and the Western Maryland Shay #6. The main feature of this film is the trip to the summit. We have captured various camera angles, including cab rides, front and rear shots, run by's and old still photographs. A stop at Whittaker allows us a detailed look at a loggers camp and shows Shay #11 being oiled round. Then we continue up the mountain, stopping at Oats Run for water and then on to the summit at Bald Knob. Total Running Time 56 minutes.
Disc Two: We head up to Bald Knob again but with the film increased to 4 times normal speed. The front view of the journey is captured on the first section of the lower switchback. This is followed by a reverse view up to the upper switchback before a return to the front view for the remaining climb to the summit. Again cab shots are included. On the return trip enjoy some traditional Blue Grass music. Bonus footage includes Shay #4 hauling the Whittaker train, plus shunting in the yard at Cass and deleted scenes showing Shay #2 climbing the bank to the second switchback. Total running Time 59 minutes.
Disc One: Introduction to the town of Cass, plus a detailed look at the Shay locomotives. A Workshop tour is also included, featuring both Shay #5 and the Western Maryland Shay #6. The main feature of this film is the trip to the summit. We have captured various camera angles, including cab rides, front and rear shots, run by's and old still photographs. A stop at Whittaker allows us a detailed look at a loggers camp and shows Shay #11 being oiled round. Then we continue up the mountain, stopping at Oats Run for water and then on to the summit at Bald Knob. Total Running Time 56 minutes.
Disc Two: We head up to Bald Knob again but with the film increased to 4 times normal speed. The front view of the journey is captured on the first section of the lower switchback. This is followed by a reverse view up to the upper switchback before a return to the front view for the remaining climb to the summit. Again cab shots are included. On the return trip enjoy some traditional Blue Grass music. Bonus footage includes Shay #4 hauling the Whittaker train, plus shunting in the yard at Cass and deleted scenes showing Shay #2 climbing the bank to the second switchback. Total running Time 59 minutes.
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American Preserved Railroads
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is perhaps America’s most authentic steam line. Relive the excitement of twisting and turning through the beautiful San Juan Mountains on the tracks that tamed the West, crossing the Colorado - New Mexico border eleven times. Count the turns as you look down from Windy Point, up to the spires of Phantom Curve, or into the depths of the Toltec Gorge. This 3ft. Narrow gauge railway was built more then 120 years ago with very little changing since.
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is jointly owned by the States of New Mexico and Colorado. This 64 mile line connects Charma, New Mexico and Antonito, Colorado via the 10,015ft Cumbres Pass and is an archetypal remnant of the Denver & Rio Grande narrow gauge railway system once stretching hundreds of miles through the Rocky Mountains. It is operated as a living history museum, the trains running from mid June until the end of October. We’ve captured a moment in time from a bygone era when travel was an adventure. An incredibly moving environment, let us share it with you as we steam to the summit through the showers.
Total Running time 55 minutes.
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is jointly owned by the States of New Mexico and Colorado. This 64 mile line connects Charma, New Mexico and Antonito, Colorado via the 10,015ft Cumbres Pass and is an archetypal remnant of the Denver & Rio Grande narrow gauge railway system once stretching hundreds of miles through the Rocky Mountains. It is operated as a living history museum, the trains running from mid June until the end of October. We’ve captured a moment in time from a bygone era when travel was an adventure. An incredibly moving environment, let us share it with you as we steam to the summit through the showers.
Total Running time 55 minutes.
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American Preserved Railroads
The Durango & Silverton Railroad was originally part of The Denver & Rio Grande Railroad. It ran from Denver in the North, South to the Rio-Grande and West to Salt Lake City. This is the same branch line that connected Antonito and Charma, but unfortunately, the section between Chama and Durango was axed in 1968, cutting the two most scenic sections of the route.
The railway arrived in Durango on August 5th 1881, construction on the line to Silverton beginning in the autumn of the same year. By July 1882, amazingly only 11 months after construction began, the tracks to Silverton were completed, allowing the train to begin hauling freight and passengers over the 45 miles. The line was constructed to haul silver and gold ore from the San Juan Mountains, but passengers soon realised it was the view that was truly precious.
Travel the route that visionaries and mines carved out through the Rocky Mountains, ride high above the rushing Animas River. It is more than just a train ride, it’s a step back through time and history. Relive the sights and sounds of yesteryear on a spectacular journey on vintage rolling stock, hauled by locomotives built over 100 years ago.
Total Running Time 58 minutes.
The railway arrived in Durango on August 5th 1881, construction on the line to Silverton beginning in the autumn of the same year. By July 1882, amazingly only 11 months after construction began, the tracks to Silverton were completed, allowing the train to begin hauling freight and passengers over the 45 miles. The line was constructed to haul silver and gold ore from the San Juan Mountains, but passengers soon realised it was the view that was truly precious.
Travel the route that visionaries and mines carved out through the Rocky Mountains, ride high above the rushing Animas River. It is more than just a train ride, it’s a step back through time and history. Relive the sights and sounds of yesteryear on a spectacular journey on vintage rolling stock, hauled by locomotives built over 100 years ago.
Total Running Time 58 minutes.
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American Preserved Railroads
The Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad (D&GVR) is now a tourist line, but in its heyday of operation it formed part of the mighty Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad, (C&O) Greenbrier Division. Today most of the former 100 miles of track bed from the junction of Whitcomb/North Caldwell to the town of Cass has been converted to a cycle trail. The Cass to Durbin section was washed away in a mighty flood in 1985 and was never replaced. The only useable track bed is the section from Durbin Station, south along the Greenbrier River to a small halt at Hevner, a running distance of 5 miles.
The D&GVR star attraction is a 55 ton Climax geared steam locomotive, built over 100 years ago by the Climax works of Cory in Pennsylvania. There were 3 classes of Climax’s built. This locomotive, old number 3 is a Class B and is one of only 3 operating engines still in working condition. It spent most of its working life hauling timber for the Moore-Keppel Lumber Company in nearby Randolph County until 1940 when the mill closed. Today it pulls a caboose, a flat wagon and a covered coach, all built in the 1920’s.
In this film we see the early morning shunting in Durbin Yard and a run down the line. On the return journey we capture the beauty of the Greenbrier River, from both onboard the train and at various points along the route.
The D&GVR star attraction is a 55 ton Climax geared steam locomotive, built over 100 years ago by the Climax works of Cory in Pennsylvania. There were 3 classes of Climax’s built. This locomotive, old number 3 is a Class B and is one of only 3 operating engines still in working condition. It spent most of its working life hauling timber for the Moore-Keppel Lumber Company in nearby Randolph County until 1940 when the mill closed. Today it pulls a caboose, a flat wagon and a covered coach, all built in the 1920’s.
In this film we see the early morning shunting in Durbin Yard and a run down the line. On the return journey we capture the beauty of the Greenbrier River, from both onboard the train and at various points along the route.
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American Preserved Railroads
The Verde Canyon Railway in Arizona was built in 1911, to standard gauge, to haul the mined ore from Jerome 40 mile north to Drake. Once there and on the main line it could be transported easily to anywhere within the United States. This freight only line has changed very little since it was built, cutting through a vast wilderness area to connect with the various isolated ranches. Until the railroad they were only reached with mule trains and pack horses. Today the only way to view this magnificent masterpiece of engineering is from the train.
This film was shot entirely onboard, with the scenery taking top billing. The river journey takes you into the wilderness as it follows the Upper Verde River, over bridges, through inner canyons and a 680 feet tunnel before arriving at the old Perkins Ranch. Ride behind a pair of diesel engines built in the 1950’s and in carriages that were once a part of the El Capitan trains that linked the cities of Los Angles and Chicago.
In an age dominated by speed, this train never goes more than 15 miles per hour, allowing optimum viewing of this vast, almost forgotten canyon.
Total Running Time 58 minutes.
This film was shot entirely onboard, with the scenery taking top billing. The river journey takes you into the wilderness as it follows the Upper Verde River, over bridges, through inner canyons and a 680 feet tunnel before arriving at the old Perkins Ranch. Ride behind a pair of diesel engines built in the 1950’s and in carriages that were once a part of the El Capitan trains that linked the cities of Los Angles and Chicago.
In an age dominated by speed, this train never goes more than 15 miles per hour, allowing optimum viewing of this vast, almost forgotten canyon.
Total Running Time 58 minutes.
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Miniature Railways
Miniature Railways
Few people get to realise their childhood dream and fewer still at the age of 86, but this is what happened to me, Bob Symes. I have always loved and been involved with railways and this film shows the culmination of 10 years work to design and build mu own garden railway. Many friends and acquaintances have been involved along the way from surveying the track to building my unique locomotives, a GWR railcar and a 14XX. Without the help of all of these people Green Dene ( Works) Railway would never have come to fruition.
Early photos have been found, featuring the purchasing of the first engine (2000) and track laying (2001), plus video footage (4:3) from 2003. In 2004 the railcar arrived and the camera’s were here to capture the first run. Station & signal box construction took place in 2005. 2006 saw the bells installed from the signal box to the carriage shed. In 2007 the 14XX was commissioned. The Oakhill Manor coaches run on the line in 2008 & in 2009 the waiting room on the down platform was in place. 2010 saw the arrival of the latest addition to the fleet. The 14XX. This film gives some insight into the challenges involved in building a garden railway.
Total Running Time 62 minutes.
Early photos have been found, featuring the purchasing of the first engine (2000) and track laying (2001), plus video footage (4:3) from 2003. In 2004 the railcar arrived and the camera’s were here to capture the first run. Station & signal box construction took place in 2005. 2006 saw the bells installed from the signal box to the carriage shed. In 2007 the 14XX was commissioned. The Oakhill Manor coaches run on the line in 2008 & in 2009 the waiting room on the down platform was in place. 2010 saw the arrival of the latest addition to the fleet. The 14XX. This film gives some insight into the challenges involved in building a garden railway.
Total Running Time 62 minutes.
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Miniature Railways
This magnificent 10 ¼ inch railway lines runs within the grounds of Drummond Randalls estate in Kent. The track length is approximately a mile long, passing a viaduct and tunnel (the longest on any private railway) before reaching one of the two stations on the line.
Featured engines are a Schools class 4-4-0 Tonbridge and a Terrier 0-6-0 Crowborough. Other loco’s in service were John Terence and Dunalastair.
There are also pictures from the 1983 tunnel construction. This railway opens to the public in aid of charity - for opening details please contact the Birchley Railway.
Total running time 30 minutes. Non-Narrated.
Featured engines are a Schools class 4-4-0 Tonbridge and a Terrier 0-6-0 Crowborough. Other loco’s in service were John Terence and Dunalastair.
There are also pictures from the 1983 tunnel construction. This railway opens to the public in aid of charity - for opening details please contact the Birchley Railway.
Total running time 30 minutes. Non-Narrated.
10.00 £(VAT incl.)
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Miniature Railways
This private 10 ¼ inch gauge railway seldom runs a train of scale freight stock over the entire length of this line, so we were delighted to be asked to film from Haven Road to Hazelbank End, a distance of ¾ of a mile. On the day of filming the journey through the woodland from Bramble Hill to the line’ s terminus at Hazelbank End was blanketed in Bluebells.
Two models of vintage steam locomotives, Invicta and Lion {double headed} were on duty for the journey and provided an excellent service.
The Metropolitan Tank locomotive Pluto provided light engine and shunting duties with the Midland Compound sitting on shed.
This DVD includes steam raising, close ups of all three locomotives, various line side on board and driver’s view shots which provide a real time journey on this marvellous and historic line.
A unique opportunity to see locomotives and rolling stock that appear rarely- let alone all together at one time.
Total running time 24 minutes, Non narrated.
Two models of vintage steam locomotives, Invicta and Lion {double headed} were on duty for the journey and provided an excellent service.
The Metropolitan Tank locomotive Pluto provided light engine and shunting duties with the Midland Compound sitting on shed.
This DVD includes steam raising, close ups of all three locomotives, various line side on board and driver’s view shots which provide a real time journey on this marvellous and historic line.
A unique opportunity to see locomotives and rolling stock that appear rarely- let alone all together at one time.
Total running time 24 minutes, Non narrated.
10.00 £(VAT incl.)
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Miniature Railways
This private 10 ¼ inch line is seldom opened to the public. It runs for ¾ of a mile within the grounds of a private school in Sussex. This film shows the steaming of the loco’s, the main stations along the line and features the L.M.S Compound, Lion. A G.W.R Tank Burry - Port, John Terence and the Highland 4-4-0, all in steam.
The railway has beautifully scaled stations with Engine and Carriage sheds, all of which were built over the last 30 years. The railway runs through open fields and woodland.
Total Running Time 25 minutes. Non Narrated.
The railway has beautifully scaled stations with Engine and Carriage sheds, all of which were built over the last 30 years. The railway runs through open fields and woodland.
Total Running Time 25 minutes. Non Narrated.
10.00 £(VAT incl.)
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Miniature Railways
We return to this delightful 10 ¼ inch line to show two visiting loco’s - Pluto, a scaled London Transport steam loco used on the Metropolitan Railway and an G.N.R Altantic Class loco No 4442.
Again the steaming of all the engines is covered in detail with the addition of a model layout of Indian Hill. This 16mm narrow gauge model railway is always popular, as attention to detail is superb. Other engines on duty were Lion, the L.M.S Compound and No 79 the Highland 4-4-0. This is an ideal opportunity to view a line rarely opened to the public.
Total Running Time 25 minutes. Non Narrated.
Again the steaming of all the engines is covered in detail with the addition of a model layout of Indian Hill. This 16mm narrow gauge model railway is always popular, as attention to detail is superb. Other engines on duty were Lion, the L.M.S Compound and No 79 the Highland 4-4-0. This is an ideal opportunity to view a line rarely opened to the public.
Total Running Time 25 minutes. Non Narrated.
10.00 £(VAT incl.)
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Miniature Railways
The Strawberry Line Miniature Railway operates within the grounds of the Avon Valley Adventure Park at Keynsham, between Bristol and Bath in SW England. In this programme we will be showing what is involved in operating a commercial 5 inch ground level line and what goes on behind the scenes.
Disc One: Introduction to The Strawberry Line followed by a morning briefing by Mike Bass to the members, then all the rolling stock comes out of the sheds. Dave Bateman gives us a track walk and explains why it is necessary. Ian Hunter takes us behind the scenes and shows us how to apply transfers to a new loco, then Richard Clayton allows access to the Workshops where he starts turning some new axles. Bob Vine restores some damaged trucks, then there is a full tour of the entire line behind a Class 40 locomotive. Jenny Timms shows off her gardening skills. Richard Clayton and Dave Pinch ballast some track, whilst Junior member, Daniel Timms talks about the benefits of being a member here. Ian Hunter gets to the bottom of some signalling issues and explains how the system works and finally Richard Clayton and Ian Hunter replace some worn out sleepers in the sidings. Once the visitors have left all the stock is put away, ready for another day. Total running time 54 minutes.
Disc Two: Ken Parsons shows how to completely rewire a Class 33 Locomotive and junior member, Jack Stenner takes a goods train around the circuit and does some shunting in the yard. Total running time 29 minutes.
Disc One: Introduction to The Strawberry Line followed by a morning briefing by Mike Bass to the members, then all the rolling stock comes out of the sheds. Dave Bateman gives us a track walk and explains why it is necessary. Ian Hunter takes us behind the scenes and shows us how to apply transfers to a new loco, then Richard Clayton allows access to the Workshops where he starts turning some new axles. Bob Vine restores some damaged trucks, then there is a full tour of the entire line behind a Class 40 locomotive. Jenny Timms shows off her gardening skills. Richard Clayton and Dave Pinch ballast some track, whilst Junior member, Daniel Timms talks about the benefits of being a member here. Ian Hunter gets to the bottom of some signalling issues and explains how the system works and finally Richard Clayton and Ian Hunter replace some worn out sleepers in the sidings. Once the visitors have left all the stock is put away, ready for another day. Total running time 54 minutes.
Disc Two: Ken Parsons shows how to completely rewire a Class 33 Locomotive and junior member, Jack Stenner takes a goods train around the circuit and does some shunting in the yard. Total running time 29 minutes.
22.00 £(VAT incl.)
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Miniature Railways
The Strawberry Line Miniature Railway operates within the grounds of the Avon Valley Adventure Park at Keynsham, between Bristol and Bath in SW England. This delightful and only commercially operating 5 inch ground level line is celebrating its 10th anniversary and as this DVD shows, a lot has changed in the last decade.
In this programme we show how the line started and how it has developed, thanks to the vast collection of photographs of the owner / operator Mike Bass. Plus, from 1999 we have discovered some rare archive footage of the railway in its first season of operation. A Santa Special recorded in Christmas 2001 shows the progress that has happened in just 2 years. Also included is extra video footage from club members showing the various stages of development in this lines history.
A major event in the history of this line occurred in 2006 with the building of the lines extension. This was achieved in just 21 working days and thanks again to Mike’s collection of photo's, we can share it with you. Other items of interest over the lat decade, include the building of the Signal Box, Station Area and The Goods Yard. The history of the line is brought up to date with 2008 Gala Weekend. This saw the lines engines, plus visiting engines, both steam & diesel come together from all over the country and concluded with a 17 engine run-by at the end of the day.
For those that have followed this line’s development, this programme is a timely reminder of how, thanks to all the volunteers help, this line is the success it is today.
In this programme we show how the line started and how it has developed, thanks to the vast collection of photographs of the owner / operator Mike Bass. Plus, from 1999 we have discovered some rare archive footage of the railway in its first season of operation. A Santa Special recorded in Christmas 2001 shows the progress that has happened in just 2 years. Also included is extra video footage from club members showing the various stages of development in this lines history.
A major event in the history of this line occurred in 2006 with the building of the lines extension. This was achieved in just 21 working days and thanks again to Mike’s collection of photo's, we can share it with you. Other items of interest over the lat decade, include the building of the Signal Box, Station Area and The Goods Yard. The history of the line is brought up to date with 2008 Gala Weekend. This saw the lines engines, plus visiting engines, both steam & diesel come together from all over the country and concluded with a 17 engine run-by at the end of the day.
For those that have followed this line’s development, this programme is a timely reminder of how, thanks to all the volunteers help, this line is the success it is today.
17.95 £(VAT incl.)
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Miniature Railways
Babbacombe Junction is a vintage ”O” gauge model railway layout. It has been here at the Babbacombe Model Village since 2000, but the history of some of the engines, rolling stock and the majority of the buildings go back to the 1930’s. Mr C.W.Meredith of West Ferry, Dundee had these buildings & rolling stock on his line. The Craigard Railway, which he ran in his attic. Most of the buildings were built for him by The Very Reverend Edward Beal, who was well known for his model buildings and books.
After Mr Meredith’s death, the entire Craigard layout was acquired by Matthew Kerr Sr. He and his son, also named Matthew kept all of the original layout for about 25 years. It was then sold onto myself, Mel Sherwood, and I have tried to recreate the original buildings here at Babbacombe Junction, as they were on Mr Meredith’s layout. Over the years I have added many items, some new and some I have had for many years. I have always kept the high standards of the Craigard Railway that was set in the 1930’s by Mr. Meredith.
Today I operate 3 oval tracks and 1 siding line and run various carriages and vintage locomotives all day. Goods trains run too.
What I have tried to achieve at Babbacombe Junction, I hope is fitting tribute to the late Mr Matthew Kerr Jr. And Mr Meredith’s original vision.
After Mr Meredith’s death, the entire Craigard layout was acquired by Matthew Kerr Sr. He and his son, also named Matthew kept all of the original layout for about 25 years. It was then sold onto myself, Mel Sherwood, and I have tried to recreate the original buildings here at Babbacombe Junction, as they were on Mr Meredith’s layout. Over the years I have added many items, some new and some I have had for many years. I have always kept the high standards of the Craigard Railway that was set in the 1930’s by Mr. Meredith.
Today I operate 3 oval tracks and 1 siding line and run various carriages and vintage locomotives all day. Goods trains run too.
What I have tried to achieve at Babbacombe Junction, I hope is fitting tribute to the late Mr Matthew Kerr Jr. And Mr Meredith’s original vision.
10.00 £(VAT incl.)
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