Platform Lamps
The Stygian gloom that descends upon Sherton Abbas platform at nightfall has been a concern for sometime now. Complaints from passengers about the complete absence of platform lamps has been on the increase as nights are drawing in and Winter approaches. Rumours of "Ne'er-do-wells" lurking in the darkness abound, which although completely unfounded have proved unsettling for passengers of the fairer sex. The Sherton Abbas Chronicle has been stoking this discontent and shouts of "Something must be done!" have been shattering the tranquillity of this normally quiet market town.
Fortunately something has been done!
The previous paragraph in reality just means I've finally got round to making some platform lamps for the layout:-)
I've held off sorting some lamps out for a couple of years now, mainly because I haven't found any that I liked. The proprietary white metal offerings look a bit coarse to my eye and although I was impressed by these brass versions https://www.kemilway.com/kemilway-architecture.html, despite numerous email requests I had no response back from the manufacturer:-(
Modelu have been promising some for a couple of years now, but I think other projects have taken priority.
I probably should try to make some splendid examples like Mikkel's http://www.rmweb.co.uk/community/index.php?/blog/75/entry-20710-lamps-and-lamplighters/, but know when I'm beaten!
I rather liked the fineness of these lamps from Peco https://peco-uk.com/collections/lineside-scenic/products/station-platform-lamps but was initially put off by the hexagonal cross section posts.
I also liked these white metal posts from S&D models https://www.sanddmodels.co.uk/products_43_lamps.htm GL14 in their range.
A plan was hatched to combine the Peco lamp tops, the S&D posts and hopefully make something at least a little GWR looking!
Peco and S&D components
Peco parts
The Peco plastic lamp housing was cut off the posts and then glued to the top of the white metal posts using 5 minute epoxy resin.
Lamp housing glued to post
I want two of the lamps to be wall mounted, so brackets were made using some plastic card strip and etched brass scroll pieces from the scrap box:-)
Lamps and posts
Completed lamps
The lamps and posts were then positioned on the platform, the wall mounted versions were fixed onto the Goods shed and Station building.
Lamps in situ on the layout
I’m reasonably happy with the way the lamps have turned out. The finials on top of the lamps aren’t quite representative of G.W.R. practice, but are probably adequate, at least until Modelu bring out some scanned examples!:-)
Peace and tranquillity have returned to Sherton Abbas, indeed a number of passengers are reported to have expressed their gratitude to the Station Master. The following headline has also appeared in the “Chronicle”
Lamp lighting ceremony at Sherton Abbas station!
We are pleased to report that a lamp lighting ceremony took place at Sherton Abbas station last Thursday evening. Local residents arrived in considerable numbers to witness the event which was presided over by the Mayor of Sherton Abbas, our Station Master and members of the Great Western Railway board. The ceremony was punctuated with enthusiastic applause and a rousing chorus of “For he’s a jolly good fellow!” rang out across the station forecourt once the lamps had been lit.
Until next time ..........
Best wishes
Dave
Edited by wenlock
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