Cullen Report
The Cullen Report into Britain's railways has implications for steam railways. The report has highlighted problems with ladders and fire extinguishers on trains; these need checking on our trains. Insurance is one area which railways need to think more about in the future. One steam railway had 13 claims this year - something which is bound to put premiums up.

Bolton Abbey News
The new office has been completed. This is situated in the old waiting room and incorporates a lobby and hatch; Andy Lister did the work. Members are reminded that this is not to be used as a general room; the old computer remains for use by members on railway business. Members are asked to use the photocopier at Embsay (key from the shop).

Progress is being made on the roundabout, and the searchlight signal is nearly complete. The narrow-gauge railway now has a couple of hoppers.

Embsay News
Matthew Bell and Keith Emmett have painted the loos on the station, so they are looking a lot brighter. Members have been busy making and putting up Christmas decorations.

Carriage & Wagon News
The railway has recently acquired 45 triple-cell battery units, enough for ten carriages, virtually free; Dave Oughtibridge has been fitting some. 2 guards' escape ladders have been donated by Immingham Railfreight, through the kindness of Mr. W. Longbottom.

Coach No 9 has been taken to Bolton Abbey for paining by Mike Owen and Mike Froud.

Pete Barry has made a start on upholstery work, and has cut out patterns and completed 2 seats.

Wendy Anderson is making good progress on the L&Y box van. The superstructure has been almost completely replaced, and she thanks John Downes and Dave Ibbotson for their contributions. The van will be painted in L&Y livery of grey with white roof and black underframe. It should be ready early next year.

Loco Department News
Monckton has had her boiler test and the boiler will soon be back in the frames; new side rod brasses have been made. The loco could be back in service next year if the work gets top priority over other jobs.

Cranford has passed her boiler test and Primrose is being prepared for the boiler to be lifted out and taken away for repair. Work is progressing well on Spitfire; the hornblocks and brake rod shaft have been refitted.

Plans are being prepared to tackle the restoration of Airedale in the new year; more of that in coming Newslines.

Permanent Way News
The team has been working on the top yard ballasting the track; the tandem and crossover have been lifted and packed and roads two and three have been ballasted and are ready for lifting when the packer arrives.

People
Bob Bonsall had a mild heart attack recently, but has made a complete recovery and has returned to the railway. From what we've heard, he had to be tied to the bed to make him rest!

Although there wasn't an official Bonfire Night event this year, a group of members, led by Anne Oughtibridge, put on a party using the fireworks from last year's cancelled event. They raised over £50 for the shed fund.

A Christmas Party is being planned for the 15th December; there is a notice in the mess hut to sign if you can come. Let's hope it's a big success.

Mystery on Platform 2
A member who wishes to remain anonymous has reported strange goings on Platform Two. He says that he has had the feeling of being watched, and has glimpsed an elusive figure out of the corner of his eye, which disappeared when he turned round. Has anyone else sensed a 'presence'?

November 200 Club Prize Winners 1st prize: No 63; Mr. J. Beesley 2nd prize: No 44; Mr. A. P. Koolman 3rd prize: No 50; Mrs. E. Carvell

Editor: Lesley J Bird
ljbirdyork@yahoo.com

Young Volunteers Organisation

Would all those volunteers aged under 25 years please indicate their interest to David Barlow so that an informal meeting can be held.