Although somewhat depleted in numbers the DRAG meeting tonight managed to complete tracklaying on the first straight side of the test track, except for the transition curves into the ends. This included the 00/P87 track, and there's no denying the contrast between the P4 and the Code 75 Peco (maybe a cruel comparison as I know 00 track can be made to look much better).

John's Heljan Cargowaggon with Kean Maygib P4 wheels went through the crossover at whatever speed we could shove it.

Meanwhile, some recent purchases on display included John's Hornby Maunsell CK in blood & custard - I'm not sure about the blood myself, seems too dark to me.

And my complete (at last) authentic formation 9-coach Ilfracombe portion Devon Belle (destined for Tawbridge)

Thursday 22/10/09

A slightly belated entry here, but a small number of us had a very focussed session chez Re6/6 last Saturday, where John was able to set up 4 of the 5 straight boards from the other side to that already completed (above).

I was very pleased to see that the A5 crossover that I thought had been 'mislaid', had in fact been laid on one of the boards back at the original Saturday session at Holcombe a few weeks ago.

In fact, we found that it had been laid on the wrong board as compared with Rod's Master Plan, but a bit of quick improvisation and executive decision making saw us quickly shuffle the other crossovers around to achieve a new configuration, which should serve us just as well (I really didn't want to have to lift an already-glued crossover, plus plasticard base!).

By mid-afternoon (at which point I had to leave to attend CTMK on her sickbed back at home), we had virtually laid a double track, with crossovers, along the 4 boards. A short while later, the others left and John continued laying plain line on his own, until virtually everything along the 4 boards was down, with the exception of the OO P87 track (due to me not taking it with me that morning!).

So we now have to finish the 5th board, which will probably take the evening next Monday night at Holcombe, and then start on the curved boards. These will feature superelevation on the centre two tracks (the Up and Down Fast lines).

Photos to follow when uploading becomes possible again!