Morwellham Quay and Launceston Steam Railway

[ge_rik]

On today`s itinerary were Morwellham and Launceston.

There`s plenty to see at Morwellham, but I gave most of the exhibits only a quick glance, apart from the cafe where I felt obliged to have a Cornish Pastie.


The 2` gauge train ride into the old copper mine was well worth the visit, though. We were hauled by ( I believe) a BEV loco (by Wingrove & Rogers ??) and stopped at intervals to be given info by the driver on working practices in the mine. For me, the underground waterwheel was the most impressive bit.

The 2` gauge Launceston Steam Railway was very nicely done. Always great to see another North Wales quarry Hunslet rescued and in steam. The ride of about 35 mins is probably about right for most youngsters - there`s a kids` play farm at the other end of the ride.



These are both places I will probably not re-visit. Not because there`s anything wrong with them, but for someone interested in railways they both have fairly limited appeal - it`s a case of been there, done that, now.

Rik

 

[trammayo]

Been watching Edwardian Farm on the Beeb - wondered if I might catch a glimpse of the railway - so it was a surprise to see your thread title!

There's a certain incongruity between the driver's headgear and hairstyle - had to get my magnifying glass to make sure he wasn't wearing an old-fashioned set of ear defenders

 

[dunnyrail]

Been watching Edwardian Farm on the Beeb - wondered if I might catch a glimpse of the railway - so it was a surprise to see your thread title!

There's a certain incongruity between the driver's headgear and hairstyle - had to get my magnifying glass to make sure he wasn't wearing an old-fashioned set of ear defenders

Think you might find that could be a She. The owners wife has restored a Quarry Hunslet and on occasion even Drives one. That could be her but I am not sure. Here is where I will eat humble pie if I got that wrong!

My favourite bit of kit at Launceston is the IOM Type Tram Car.
JonD

 

[PhilP]

You beat me to it!! Yes, you are correct.

Been watching Edwardian Farm on the Beeb - wondered if I might catch a glimpse of the railway - so it was a surprise to see your thread title!

There's a certain incongruity between the driver's headgear and hairstyle - had to get my magnifying glass to make sure he wasn't wearing an old-fashioned set of ear defenders

I think you will find the driver is a Lady!

We used to go the that part of the world quite regularly when the kids were.. Well, kids! :
It was quite a thing then to have female footplate crew.. always had a soft spot for the Launceston Steam Railway.. There again, it is a Hunslet!

 

[ge_rik]

Yes, I can indeed confirm that the driver in question is Kay. I was there for a couple of hours and watched three departures, each with a different driver. I'll compile a short video when I get back.

Visited Ruth's cottage, but she wasn't in though there was evidence of her presence.

Rik

 

[trammayo]

I did wonder as to the gender of the driver : I need to use my specs!

 

[ge_rik]

I did wonder as to the gender of the driver : I need to use my specs!

Don't worry, Mick. I was uncertain, and I was there......

Rik