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On Tour - Rail in the UK Tour 28 June 2023

We started with the plan to visit the Churnet Valley steam railway today but just as we were getting close to the Railway, we ran into some major roadworks that held us up and even with some great driving from Michael, we arrived 6 minutes late for the 1030 train. We also heard that due to a major defect located this morning during the warmup period and the steam train was taken offline and replaced with a Diesel Engine. So, we decided to stay and take the 1330 train. In the meantime, we had Scones, Jam and Clotted Cream for morning tea with of course, Tea!! We then went for a walk to an area where there were a couple of historical pieces from another century. We found a very large Lime Kiln that was located near a canal with canal locks and a canal boat in residence which made us believe that the locks still operate.

We then made our way back to the station and waited for our train. The Churnet Valley Railway is a delightful heritage railway located in the picturesque Staffordshire Moorlands offering something for all the family and today there were young infant school children on an excursion with family and teachers. On the 16 kilometre line there are 4 stations, and the line is open to visitors on selected dates. The carriages are 1950s and 1960s vintage and it is good sitting back and relaxing as you journey through beautiful countryside that takes in rolling hills, the River Churnet and the Caldon Canal. You also pass through beautifully restored stations. A very good heritage line and as we finally were able to board a train, later than expected, we all enjoyed the day and the Australian Cricketers doing so well in the second test made it all the better.

Tomorrow we are visiting the Severn Vally Railway and adjacent to the railway, at the start of the journey, we will find Elephants and Giraffes trundling alongside the train. Should be a good day.

Graham Fleeton.

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