Billington Light Railway

[trainfan]

Seeing as I've just discovered this forum, time to post my garden railway. Its not long at the moment but its growing slowly!

 

The original railway was laid on wooden planks but after my little company exploded in popularity recently, I needed a proper test track! Hence this appeared:-

 

After a long discussion with the landlords, it's finally happened! A permanent line has appeared in my garden. Only about 22ft long at the moment but will grow to 30ft on Saturday with further growth potentially following in the new year if it beds in enough and the parents are still happy.

 

First job, go and buy a load of Ballast. Phase 1 used 6 bags and I have 4 more in stock for phase 2/3 if it ever happens.

 

Ballast down and in place. Taken just before it was packed (aka stood on)

 

Track all laid and tamped. Ready for running (and yes, the trains do fit under the slab)

 

The kinds of shots that are now possible. Leader shown at the end of the line. That's SO much better compared to the rotten planks the line was on before.

 

The next day...........

 

The final 3 yards are down! Total running line is about 10-11 yards (I think, I haven't measured it!) but I'm happy. Plus I've got 3 bags of gravel and 5 yards of track spare ready to start across the lawn (when the parents let me...)

 

The spare track. Mostly in one piece. Unsurprisingly, the track on some of the newer boards didn't want to come off!

 

First trains (battery powered to make life easier) should be tomorrow. Stock hasn't been decided yet but may end up being the welshpool set (again for ease).

 

And the day after...........

 

Only one image from today. First test runs were done with my IPE Jessica and two FR coaches. Surprisingly level for something I've built! Not bad really. Need to get some heavier locos running over it to start fully bedding it in but I'm happy. That's for another day unless I get back early enough from work either today or tomorrow....

 

Short test train under power.

 

And the following Sunday!

 

Having got back from work eariler than planned, time to run a train. A rudy heavy one at that!

 

Stock was my Welshpool set which although not very heavy, don't roll as nicely as they should (I really should Oil them at some point.......) plus Superior. A nice heavy loco to test it all properly (well, it is the biggest I own!).

 

Raising Steam. I think I've found the perfect steam up area (for now).

 

After about 20 minutes light engine to let the ballast settle, The test train awaits!

 

Quick couple up and then.....

 

Off we go! Only a short run down the track but with the regulator cracked open and 20psi on the gauge, takes a surprisingly long time to get to the other end!

 

Leaves a surprisingly nice steam trail as well!

 

Run complete after about 45 minutes. Time to let the steam vent out before packing away!

 

Been a long time since I ran a successful train in my garden with only 1 derailment after a very rapid stop (that brick does a good job as a buffer stop!).

 

Safe to say I'm very happy! Bring on the next stage (most likely in December or eariler depending on funds......)

 

Cheers,

 

Jon